Star of the Cévennes - Guided walking trip
One centre, guided walking holiday
In the Southern Cévennes lies a magical landscape of ridges and valleys. Based in a small auberge, nestled in a sheltered valley, we invite you to discover some of our favourite walks. For more than 20 years this is the adopted home of Sarah our guide with a true passion for the region. This area is one of the last places in France where the ‘transhumance’ – the seasonal movement of sheep between the valleys and the high mountain pastures – still takes place, on foot, following ancient drovers’ paths. Our walks follow these same paths, with stunning views, varied landscapes and pure, soft mountain air.
Itinerary
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Day 1:
Meeting in Montpellier and Transfer to your Auberge
Transfer time 1h30
Meeting at Montpellier train station at 13h00 or at 15h00 at your auberge in the Southern Cévennes. Presentation of the holiday by your guide, followed by a 2-3 hour walk allowing you to discover the charm of the Cévénol landscape straight away. Ancient terraces are today planted with sweet onions for which this area is famous. The presence of old mulberry trees (“the tree of gold”) are a reminder of the past importance of the silk industry in the Cévennes. Dinner in your auberge.
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Day 2:
Cévenol landscapes – sweet onions and chestnuts
4 h walking, 10 km, 350m ascent/descent
Today we explore the foothhills of the Cévennes. Our path weaves its way through woods of sweet chestnuts, intersperced with stunning views across the Southern Cévennes. After a pretty descent and stream crossing, we arrive in a hidden valley where a local grower of the famous sweet onions, of the Cévennes, awaits us to talk with great passion about his work;
Dinner in your auberge. -
Day 3:
Le Pic de Barette
4h30 walking, 12 km, 320m ascent/descent
We start our walk at 1190m. Superb stretches through forests of beech and spruce are interspersed with mountain streams, waterfalls and panoramic views. These rugged slopes are home to the mouflon (an ancient breed of wild sheep) and the summit of our walk offers an ideal viewing point for the observation of numerous wild animal and bird species. We return with time to enjoy the swimming pool before dinner in your auberge.
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Day 4:
Le Mont Aiguoal
4h30 walking time, 11 km 320m ascent/descent
Today we discover the mythical summit of Mont Aiguoal. In clear conditions, the view encompasses the Alps, the Pyrénées and the Mediterranean. At 1567m, the summit is the second highest point in the Cévennes and is home to the last manned mountain weather station in France. A circular walk on forest paths provides us with vast vistas and allows us to visit the weather station. On our way back to the auberge, we visit an onion grower in the Hérault valley.
Dinner in your auberge. -
Day 5:
Le Col de L’Asclier
6h00 walking time, 13 km, ascent/descent 560m
A spectacular walk which explores one of the most magical sites of the Cévennes: the Col de l’Asclier. With its « pont moutonnier » (sheep bridge), this pass has been famous for centuries for the passage of sheep on transhumance – their spring migration up to the mountain pastures. In following the ancient ‘draille’ or drovers’ path along the ridge, we enjoy some of the best panoramic views that the Cévennes has to offer.
This walk is a little more demanding than others during the week but our efforts will be richly rewarded by the discovery of these wild, little known landscapes.
Dinner in your auberge. -
Day 6:
Return to Montpellier
Return transfer to Montpellier train station for 11HOO
If you are leaving directly from the auberge with your own transport, then your holiday will finish after breakfast.
Disclaimer
The above itinerary may be modified due to weather or terrain conditions, equipment concerns or the physical condition of the participants. The final choice of the walks will be decided by the guide who may adapt the programme for reasons of security.
Dates & prices
| From | To | Price | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| €970 |
Guaranteed
|
NB: prices are per person.
NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS
4 to 15
PRICE OF THE HOLIDAY
From 695 €
Special departure "Transhumance" in June 725€
We also organise holidays on request for ready constituted groups.
OUR PRICE INCLUDES
- Guiding and management by a local ‘Accompagnateur en Montagne’ (mountain leader) throughout the holiday
- 5 nights in a charming auberge with swimming pool, in a shared double room
- Transfers between the train station in Montpellier and your auberge at the start at end of the holiday
- Full board accommodation from the picnic on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 6
- The visits as mentioned in the programme
OUR PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Travel to reach Montpellier
- Booking fees (15€ per person) – FREE if you pay by French cheque or by bank transfer
- Personal expenses, drinks
- Cancellation or repatriation insurance
- In a general sense, everything that is not included in ‘Our price includes’
OPTION
Single room supplement :
290€ / person . Subject to
availability at the time of booking
REDUCTION
Price reduction for those coming with their own
car: -50€ / person
NB: those receiving this price reduction will
need to use their own car to reach the departure point of the walks
2 special
departures "TRANSHUMANCE":
Holiday
from 11 to 16 juin 2019 Ascent of the Transhumance
The transhumance is the seasonal migration of flocks of sheep from the
valleys up to the high mountain pastures. In the Cévennes this ancient practice
still exists today in its traditional form, that’s to say that the shepherds
walk their flocks on foot, a journey that can take 4 or 5 days.
To be in the mountains and see hundreds of sheep pass by is a moving and
unforgettable experience. The ascent of the flocks in June marks the arrival of
summer and there is a celebratory atmosphere. The shepherds walk with a light
tread and the sheep are eager to rediscover the sweet mountain grass… This holiday
gives us privileged moments with the transhumant shepherds of the Cévennes in
breath taking landscapes. The final morning of the holiday is spent at the “Fête
of the Transhumance” in the mountain village of L’Espérou. Throughout the trip
we follow broadly the same itinerary as described for the other departure dates
but with certain walks adapted in order to maximise our chances of meeting the
flocks of sheep.
Holiday from 31 août to 5 septembre 2019 Descent of the Transhumance
The descent of the flocks in September has a different atmosphere. The shepherds
and flocks have a certain nostalgia for « les hautes terres ». Their
passage marks the end of the summer, they leave the fresh mountain air and
their life of solitude and freedom to rejoin the warmth of the valleys and the
plain. They cannot delay their descent because soon the first lambs will be
born and the annual cycle begins once again…
Options
Options, supplements and reductions:
| Reductions | |
|---|---|
| Discount for people coming with their own vehicle | -€50 |
| Supplements | |
| Single room supplement | €350 |
| Supplementary nights at the beginning or end of your trip | |
| Extra night in a double room with half board at the hostel | €85 |
| Extra night in a single room with half board at the hostel | €105 |
NB: prices are per person.
Hosts
-
Les Vignals
Pierre and Laurence welcome you for 5 nights in their little corner of paradise, in the heart of a charming old Cévenol hamlet renovated with great refinement. You'll stay in double rooms and enjoy a heated swimming pool overlooking the Cévennes. SPA optional.
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Practical info
MEETING POINT:
On Day 1 there are 2 meeting points possible:-
- At 11h00 at Montpellier train station (Saint Roch)
- At 13h00 directly at your auberge if you have your own transport
Meeting point at Montpellier Train Station:
In front of the car hire office, which is situated on level 1, just before the
exit ‘Pont de Sète’.
AT THE END OF THE HOLIDAY:
On day 6, your holiday will finish :
- At 11h00 at Montpellier train station or after breakfast, if you are leaving directly from the auberge with your own transport * For the special departure "Transhumance" in June, the holiday will finish at 15h00 at Montpellier train station or at midday at your auberge if you have your own transport
TRANSFERS BETWEEN MONTPELLIER
AND THE AUBERGE
There will be one outward and return transfer only at the times shown
above. This will be in a 5 or 9 seater vehicle, driven by your guide
GUIDING AND MANAGEMENT:
This walk is
accompanied by Sarah WRIGHT, local Accompagnateur en Montagne
(mountain leader). You may have a different guide on certain
departure dates.
2 special
departures "TRANSHUMANCE":
Holiday
from 11 to 16 juin 2019 Ascent of the Transhumance
The transhumance is the seasonal migration of flocks of sheep from the
valleys up to the high mountain pastures. In the Cévennes this ancient practice
still exists today in its traditional form, that’s to say that the shepherds
walk their flocks on foot, a journey that can take 4 or 5 days.
To be in the mountains and see hundreds of sheep pass by is a moving and
unforgettable experience. The ascent of the flocks in June marks the arrival of
summer and there is a celebratory atmosphere. The shepherds walk with a light
tread and the sheep are eager to rediscover the sweet mountain grass… This holiday
gives us privileged moments with the transhumant shepherds of the Cévennes in
breath taking landscapes. The final morning of the holiday is spent at the “Fête
of the Transhumance” in the mountain village of L’Espérou. Throughout the trip
we follow broadly the same itinerary as described for the other departure dates
but with certain walks adapted in order to maximise our chances of meeting the
flocks of sheep.
Holiday from 31 août to 5 septembre 2019 Descent of the Transhumance
The descent of the flocks in September has a different atmosphere. The shepherds
and flocks have a certain nostalgia for « les hautes terres ». Their
passage marks the end of the summer, they leave the fresh mountain air and
their life of solitude and freedom to rejoin the warmth of the valleys and the
plain. They cannot delay their descent because soon the first lambs will be
born and the annual cycle begins once again…
HOW TO GET HERE:
In order to limit your carbon missions, we encourage you to use public
transport.
→ IF YOU COME
BY TRAIN
Montpellier train station (Saint Roch)
→ IF YOU COME BY CAR
You will receive the address of the auberge before departure
→ IF YOU COME BY PLANE
Montpellier ‘Méditerranée’ airport
EQUIPMENT
RUCKSACK
This should be large enough to carry your personal affairs for the day, ie.
around 30 litres. A rucksack with a hip
belt will be more comfortable (as this allows the weight to be spread more
evenly, notably across the hips), padded shoulder straps, and a chest strap.
You should always carry a warm piece of clothing, a rain coat, water bottle,
first aid kit and personal items including part of the picnic.As well as these daily necessities, a bin bag and 2 freezer bags are
invaluable to protect your belongings in case of rain.
LUGGAGE
This remains in the auberge throughout this walk in the Cévennes.
WALKING BOOTS
Choose boots with ankle support and
non-slip but supple soles. Your shoes are one of the most important elements of
your walking holiday. They should be above all comfortable, light, water proof
and breathable. Do not come on holiday with brand new shoes ! Make sure that you have already done at least 2
or 3 walks in them before your trip.
CLOTHES
- A wind and waterproof jacket that is breathable (GORETEX or similar). Ponchos are not acceptable.
- A fleece (the mountain weather can be changeable and turn cold)
- A pair of walking trousers, a pair of shorts, t-shirts (choose modern breathable, fast drying materials rather than cotton)
- A change of clothes for the evenings
- A swimming costume and towel
OTHER ITEMS
- Water bottle (2 litre minimum per person).
- A pair of telescopic walking poles (highly recommended)
- Sun glasses and sun cream
- Sun hat
- Personal tolietries and a towel
- A pair of sandals/comfortable shoes (for the evenings)
- Camera
- Small first aid kit (plasters, compeed, elastoplast, head ache pills, after bite etc
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY OF THE WALKS
Easy (E) – between 2h30 and 6h
walking per day. Between 280m et 560m uphill each day.
AMOUNT CARRIED :
All you
need to carry each day is a small rucksack with your water, picnic, first aid
kit and other personal essentials (see above equipment list).
PUBLIC :
To prepare for this holiday you should exercise
regularly and undertake an endurance sport (walking, cycling) at least twice a
week for the 2 months prior to the trip.
NATURE OF THE TERRAIN :
The walking is on the whole easy but is on rocky paths that may be uneven
and steep in places. Accessible to all those in good physical condition.
WALKING TIMES:
These are
given as a general guideline only and take into account the terrain. They are
based on an average walking speed and do not allow for breaks, picnic stops
etc. They are calculated by using an average speed of 300m per hour for a climb
uphill and 450m per hour for a descent.
WATER:
The use of
a “camel back” (water pouch which fits in your rucksack with a tube and mouth
piece) is recommended. (You may also want to bring a small thermos flask for a
tea or coffee during your walk).
THE WALKING ITINERARIES:
These may be modified due to weather or terrain conditions, equipment
concerns or the physical condition of the participants. The final choice of the
walks will be decided by the guide who may adapt the programme for reasons of
security.
THE CLIMATE
This is dominated by a Mediterrannean influence. Conditions can change quickly in the mountains. For local forecast see link: Meteo France
Reviews
2018 SEASON
Transhumance
in the Cévennes with the sheep
A superb walking
experience, meeting the flocks of sheep leaving on transhumance. Marvellous
landscapes and contact with locals, enriched by the comments of our guide
Sarah, passionate about Cévenol culture. Nice
accommodation, on a gastronomic level appreciated as much for the picnics as
for the dinners. Good coordination between the guide and the hoteliers.
Daniel 04/06/18
Special
Departure ‘Transhumance’
The auberge
was perfect. As for Sarah, our guide, she deserves credit: warm, competent,
reliable, adaptable to the fitness level of the group and the weather, a
professional who knows just when to make you smile, a gifted photographer,
bilingual, with the tact to give just a touch of help to my Anglophone friends
when needed, whilst all the time maintaining a great feeling of group
solidarity. In addition what wonderful moments shared with shepherds and
farmers who obviously have respect for her. And sautéed wild mushrooms that she
gathered for us in the forest!
Albert 04/06/18
2017 SEASON
“The Cévennes - unmissable”
This walk in the Cévennes
is top. The guide introduced us to fascinating people, who love their
land and their work. The walks are all really nice. The food is good and the
accommodation offers a view that makes you happy. Didier, July 2017
“Star of the Cévennes ”
Wonderful stay in the Cévennes : the discovery
of the transhumance paths, meetings with shepherds and producers, the ascent of
wooded summits… with Sarah, our guide, attentive, informative, who shared with
us her enthusiasm for this region and those who live in it. Corinne, August 2017
"Walk in the Cévennes"
This walk iin the
Cévennes was a very lovely discovery, and that thanks to Sarah, our guide. Sarah
is enthusiastic, kind, attentive to our needs and our innumerable questions.
She loves sharing her knowledge of the region (she knows it really well) and it
shows! I highly recommend this walk of discovery with Sarah. Patricia, August
2017.
"More than one Star"
We were the
pioneers of the first departure of this holiday – what a success! Our charming
guide Sarah knew how to share her knowledge and her passion for this very
beautiful region with cheerfulness, energy and humour. A special mention too
for Louise et David, our welcoming hosts who spoilt us each night after a dip
in the pool, with their delicious authentic cuisine and Robert the shepherd,
Michel, the producer of chestnuts etc… astonishing meetings. The Cévennes, with
stars in our eyes. Sylvie, July 2017
“The cevennes with Sarah”
A really
enjoyable stay, especially thanks to our guide Sarah, who shared with us her
enthusiasm, her great knowledge and her love for the Cévennes, always with good
humour and kindness. Sarah is one of the best guides that I have met.
Nathalie, July 2017
"On the Transhumance Paths of the Cévennes"
Excellent experience in a wild and authentic setting. Sarah, our passionate and fascinating
guide knew how to introduce us to sumptious landscapes and local characters,
both emblematic and sometimes hidden, following the tracks of flocks of sheep. Thierry, August 2017
(Above comments translated from French)