Refine your search for walks in Payzac
Payzac walks
From hamlet to bridge around Payzac
Visorando Member
9.81 mi
+2,320 ft
-2,343 ft
6h 30
Difficult
Departure from Payzac (Ardèche)
A magnificent hike in the Cévennes, mostly on trails through chestnut and arbutus trees.
The Château de Valoubières at the start of Cédat
4.76 mi
+682 ft
-679 ft
2h 45
Easy
Departure from Planzolles (Ardèche)
A short hike around the hamlet of Cédat between Lablachère and Planzolles: a varied walk through vineyards and forests of chestnut, pine and oak trees. This hike is not difficult and is suitable for families with children. The route can also be done by mountain bike. The route takes in the magnificent Château de Valoubières and passes through the hamlets of Civade, Le Coulet and Le Cellier.
The unfinished church of Saint-Genest-de-Beauzon
7.05 mi
+1,047 ft
-1,043 ft
4h 10
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Genest-de-Beauzon (Ardèche)
Saint-Genest-de-Beauzon is a strange commune, made up of scattered hamlets in the southern foothills of the Cévennes Ardéchoises, with an isolated town hall near an unfinished church that has only its walls remaining. Landscapes, old houses, historical curiosities and geological sites punctuate this route.
Moulin de Marceau and return via Bavancel from Planzolle
4.41 mi
+574 ft
-591 ft
2h 30
Easy
Departure from Planzolles (Ardèche)
A short walk with little elevation gain, allowing you to discover an old mill (5) hidden at the bottom of the valley, all in a very Mediterranean setting. The return trip through the hamlet of Bavancel offers magnificent views.
Amidst sandstone and olive trees, the church of Payzac and the Chapel of Sainte-Appolonie
6.99 mi
+1,001 ft
-1,004 ft
4h 05
Moderate
Departure from Les Assions (Ardèche)
An easy walk through woods, vineyards and olive groves at the foot of the Ardèche Cévennes. Beautiful views at both ends of the route.
The Païolive Woods
5.69 mi
+509 ft
-499 ft
3h 05
Moderate
Departure from Les Vans (Ardèche)
Discover a particularly interesting wood above the town of Les Vans.Comments about this route: I did this route in 2013, and it turns out that some signs have been added since then (signposts and probably markings), which is to be expected. Hikers can then explore other trails but will always find something unique and interesting in this remarkable wood, with no chance of getting lost.
From garrigue to Cévennes shale landscapes, departing from Les Vans
6.17 mi
+1,450 ft
-1,463 ft
4h 05
Moderate
Departure from Les Vans (Ardèche)
Contrasting landscapes between the southern scrubland and the deep gullies in the clay-limestone marl.
Fossil footprints, botanical path, abrupt change of vegetation between limestone strata and Cevennes shale, and return by a path overlooking the Chassezac river.
Very pretty and picturesque village of Naves.
That's what's on the menu of this spectacular hike which takes you around the west of Les Vans.
The Bourbouillet Trail
9.22 mi
+413 ft
-404 ft
4h 35
Moderate
Departure from Lablachère (Ardèche)
Les Gras, the limestone plateaus of southern Ardèche, may seem monotonous at first glance. This route allows you to discover varied vegetation and sometimes surprising terrain. Walking here in spring, with the green of the woods, or in autumn, with the beautiful colours, may be preferable to summer, with its high temperatures; however, part of the route is shaded. The hike passes near a karstic cave (caution!) where the underground river of the Bourbouillet resurgence flows.
Circular route from Lablachère to Rosières along the edge of La Baume
8.84 mi
+568 ft
-558 ft
4h 35
Moderate
Departure from Lablachère (Ardèche)
This is an easy hike, but it includes a fairly slippery ford and two passages that may be submerged in the event of flooding or storms. In this case, simply stay on the west bank until you reach Rosières. Conversely, in hot weather, set off at dawn and take enough water with you. The section between Garel and Rosières is shaded by riparian vegetation and cliffs; only the climb after Le Freyssinet will be hot. After that, the cliff-top path (not at all vertiginous) is slightly windy and very pleasant.
Submersible bridges and Serre du Cocu
8.41 mi
+1,549 ft
-1,568 ft
5h 15
Moderate
Departure from Gravières (Ardèche)
A circular with varied landscapes that uses the beautiful paths created and maintained by the municipality of Gravières.This route is impossible in heavy rain as the Chassezac river can cover La Pontière.
On 29 May 2024, there was quite a lot of water at La Pontière, but it was still possible to cross (I preferred to take my shoes off anyway). The weather forecast is looking better, so conditions should improve.
Planzolles - Saint-Mélany circular starting from Cornis
6.61 mi
+1,693 ft
-1,693 ft
4h 30
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Pierre-Saint-Jean (Ardèche)
Circular walking route from Planzolles to Saint-Mélany, at Pont de la Brousse. Return with beautiful views of the surrounding valleys.
The rock tombs at Ribes
4.66 mi
+948 ft
-948 ft
3h 00
Easy
Departure from Ribes (Ardèche)
This is a short route without any major difficulties and is well marked (yellow and white from point2).The path is a little technical after the tombs but not really difficult.
From Chassezac to Sentier Roche via Sentier des Drystone Shelters
8.05 mi
+1,342 ft
-1,319 ft
4h 50
Difficult
Departure from Berrias-et-Casteljau (Ardèche)
A very pleasant hike along the Chassezac, then on the Sentier des Drystone Shelters. Return via the Sentier Roche and a small wood in Païolive. Superb landscape of the Ardèche Cévennes.I recommend using the GPX track as there are countless small paths.Hike for experienced hikers. I rated the walk as difficult not because of its length or elevation gain, but because of the many rocky areas and scree slopes to cross. It is physically demanding between (9) and (10) and from (15) to (S/E) Warning: do not attempt this hike in rainy weather as the rocky, limestone terrain is very slippery.
The Bourdaric cirque from Naves
3.36 mi
+804 ft
-784 ft
2h 15
Easy
Departure from Les Vans (Ardèche)
A very beautiful walk from the charming village of Naves. This walk can be combined with the Malarce cirque.
Cirque de la Malarce in Naves
2.23 mi
+669 ft
-679 ft
1h 35
Easy
Departure from Les Vans (Ardèche)
Short circular loop in a cirque near the charming village of Naves, next to Les Vans. You can combine this outing with the Cirque du Bourdaric. A great outing for geology enthusiasts.
The Bois de Païolive (small loop)
3.20 mi
+256 ft
-256 ft
1h 40
Easy
Departure from Les Vans (Ardèche)
The Païolive forest is an ancient forest in the south of the Ardèche, occupied since prehistoric times, with a remarkable geological context and biodiversity. It overlooks the Chassezac gorges. In this karstic landscape, there are numerous zoomorphic rocks, a multitude of trails and viewpoints, not to mention many caves. Much of the walk is shaded. Really very nice.
From the Rochers de Païolive to the resurgences of the Ruisseau de Granzon
7.88 mi
+561 ft
-531 ft
4h 05
Difficult
Departure from Les Vans (Ardèche)
This unmarked route, which sometimes even leaves the trails, requires an IGN map and GPS, and leads to remote and wild areas of the Bois de Païolive and the upper part of the Ruisseau du Granzon.
Circular loop through the Bois de Païolive and Ruisseau du Granzon
10.20 mi
+709 ft
-696 ft
5h 20
Moderate
Departure from Les Vans (Ardèche)
After crossing the Bois de Païolive, the route follows the Ruisseau du Granzon. After climbing out of the canyon, the return journey is via the plateau. An enchanting route and landscape. The use of GPS and the Visorando app may be necessary.
Casteljau Peninsula - La Grotte du Renard
2.48 mi
+741 ft
-738 ft
1h 45
Moderate
Departure from Berrias-et-Casteljau (Ardèche)
A beautiful loop that allows you to discover the Chassezac Gorges with passages at river level and others on the heights with beautiful views. For the more adventurous, there is the possibility of exploring caves.
And to wash off (depending on the season), you can relax in the river.
Ideal for children, although the cliff passages require parents' full attention.
Around Païolive: from necropolis to hermitage, from desert to forest
7.15 mi
+623 ft
-640 ft
3h 50
Moderate
Departure from Berrias-et-Casteljau (Ardèche)
This hike will take you to a megalithic necropolis and a desert plain inhabited long ago by those who were buried there. It will take you to the village of Berrias, up to the Païolive woods, which you will cross, and then to the hermitage of Saint-Eugène, which is still in use, before allowing you to admire the Chassezac gorges from the magnificent cliff.
Serre de Barre - Croix de Bancillon - Alauzas
4.57 mi
+2,037 ft
-2,044 ft
3h 55
Moderate
Departure from Gravières (Ardèche)
A moderately challenging walk leading to the highest peak of the Serre de Barre, where a watchtower is manned during the summer months for fire surveillance.
From the summit, you can enjoy a beautiful view over the plain and the Ardèche mountains.
A short tour of Les Gras de Perret
5.66 mi
+331 ft
-331 ft
2h 55
Moderate
Departure from Joyeuse (Ardèche)
The gras are limestone plateaus characteristic of southern Ardèche. Here you can see low vegetation or trees: picards, junipers, Mediterranean shrubs, old mulberry trees left over from silkworm farming, various oaks and Montpellier maples. You will cross a karst landscape that is sometimes spectacular. This hike also offers a view from the top of the Beaume cliffs. You can stray from the path in search of karstic caves ( be careful at Réméjadou) and dolmens, sometimes lost in the woods.
Thines... a jewel perched high above
6.12 mi
+1,362 ft
-1,362 ft
4h 00
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Pierre-Saint-Jean (Ardèche)
This hike takes you to the village of Thines and the Church of Notre-Dame, undoubtedly a jewel of Romanesque art in the heart of the Cévennes mountains. All along this trail, the view of the village and the wild mountains surrounding it is magnificent!
In search of a few curiosities in the woods around Remejadou
4.37 mi
+141 ft
-151 ft
2h 10
Moderate
Departure from Lablachère (Ardèche)
This hike is primarily a stroll along pretty trails in a relatively cool and humid area of the Plateau des Gras. The few points of interest marked on the map can be considered as a series of goals to achieve in what resembles an orienteering course. Avoid this route if you only hike on easy, well-marked routes. GPS and OpenStreetMap are recommended; see the practical information section.
La Grange aux Pères - Bourbouillet
3.54 mi
+174 ft
-177 ft
1h 45
Easy
Departure from Lablachère (Ardèche)
After crossing a forest that could have been used as a location for scenes from Tolkien's novels, the return to the ridge runs alongside a necropolis of dolmens.
Around Berrias-et-Casteljau
7.57 mi
+433 ft
-417 ft
3h 50
Moderate
Departure from Berrias-et-Casteljau (Ardèche)
A hike to discover the banks of the Chassezac, the villages of Berrias and Casteljau, Ardèche hamlets with, as a bonus, a passage through the Bois de Païolive and a view of the Gorges du Chassezac.
At the start, when you walk along the Chassezac and in the Bois de Païolive, there are many paths. A GPS may be useful.
Serre de Barre from Brahic
4.21 mi
+1,407 ft
-1,391 ft
3h 10
Moderate
Departure from Les Vans (Ardèche)
This is an easy hike that takes you to the summit of the Pays des Vans at an altitude of 910 metres. Beautiful 360-degree panoramic views.
Between chaos and heath north of Chassezac
9.93 mi
+817 ft
-830 ft
5h 15
Moderate
Departure from Chandolas (Ardèche)
This route offers beautiful views of the cliffs and gorges of the Chassezac, rocky terrain, ancient dry stone constructions and a return route through a landscape of heath that is perhaps less poetic but nevertheless typical of the southern Ardèche.
Short tour of the drystone shelters at Maison Neuve
6.57 mi
+558 ft
-558 ft
3h 30
Moderate
Departure from Chandolas (Ardèche)
This family hike begins with magnificent views of the Chassezac gorges, then crosses a karstic rocky chaos in a Tolkien-esque forest. Further on, you will find drystone shelters, ancient dry stone shelters. The return journey offers a classic route through the limestone landscapes of southern Ardèche along a small road that is little used out of season (those allergic to tarmac will find some alternative routes through heath).
Heath and the Chassezac cliff face from Chandolas
12.01 mi
+850 ft
-869 ft
6h 15
Difficult
Departure from Chandolas (Ardèche)
A long route through the heath around Chandolas with some very wild paths. The highlight is a final section along a ledge above Chassezac, which is dizzying but not difficult provided you remain cautious. The use of a map app is strongly recommended, preferably OpenStreetMap, as there are many tracks in the heath.
Circular around Balbiac in Rosières
8.42 mi
+971 ft
-968 ft
4h 45
Moderate
Departure from Rosières (Ardèche)
This vast south-facing valley surrounded by wooded areas (mainly pine trees) has retained its agricultural activities (vineyards, orchards, olive groves) and is dotted with several hamlets that are characteristic of southern Ardèche, even if there is some sprawl from recent residential developments. Streams and springs were equipped long ago with fountains and wash houses, sometimes in unexpected places.
Loop around La Baume at Rosières
12.18 mi
+1,368 ft
-1,388 ft
7h 00
Difficult
Departure from Rosières (Ardèche)
This is a long hike that follows the Baume, first along the ledge on its left bank, then high up on its right bank (Falaise de Lunel). The final section, after point (21) , requires a lot of attention as the path entrances are often somewhat hidden, but after (23), the view is magnificent. From (12), you are in the middle of the heath and it can get very hot. I recommend setting off at dawn and taking plenty of drinks with you.
Lauzes route in Saint-Mélany
9.11 mi
+1,955 ft
-1,955 ft
5h 55
Moderate
Departure from Saint-Mélany (Ardèche)
On this route, you will discover works of art, but also the use of slate in the construction of houses, paths and bridges. Don't hesitate to make a longer stop at Dompnac.
On the way back, after Merle, crossing the Sueille stream can sometimes be tricky, especially after heavy rain, and you may get wet.
In search of underground water and megalithic sites
6.38 mi
+420 ft
-440 ft
3h 20
Moderate
Departure from Joyeuse (Ardèche)
This hike will take you through an enchanting forest above one of the region's large underground water networks, which can be seen in several places: in an underground cistern, at the bottom of a karstic cave, in the bed of an almost dry river, or at a resurgence. You will also see one of the most beautiful dolmen sites in southern Ardèche.
Please note that the Aven du Reméjadou is extremely dangerous.
Short loop around the Granzon stream
5.68 mi
+591 ft
-564 ft
3h 10
Moderate
Departure from Banne (Ardèche)
The Granzon stream canyon is a magical place that tour operators won't take you to. Go there, but don't tell anyone... The return route is via the plateau and a small road. Those allergic to tarmac may prefer to do a round trip.
In the land of stones, from Font Méjanne to Lengarnayre
6.30 mi
+394 ft
-387 ft
3h 15
Moderate
Departure from Chandolas (Ardèche)
This walk begins in the era of the dolmens and continues along a route between the piles and walls of cleared stones, allowing you to admire the colossal work of the Ardèche ancestors in clearing a few square metres of usable land. The paths are easy but sometimes a bit stony; not all the stones are in the piles... Best done in winter when the oak trees have no leaves.
Around the Ribouna Valley
3.96 mi
+1,010 ft
-1,010 ft
2h 40
Moderate
Departure from Ardèche
Circular route around the Ribouna Valley in the Ardèche Cévennes, offering superb views of the surrounding countryside, and the chance to explore the Ribouna stream, chestnut groves and the hamlets of Beaumont. Not to mention the Tourasse orientation point.
Beaumont discovery trail through ridges and forests
3.99 mi
+725 ft
-725 ft
2h 30
Moderate
Departure from Ardèche
The Beaumont village discovery trail is perched in the Ardèche Cévennes. A circular route starting and finishing in the village, near the inn, offering superb scenery! On a clear day, you can see the snow-capped Alps and Mont Ventoux to the east; part of the walk takes you through pine and chestnut woods, etc.
Heading for the Beaume
4.86 mi
+1,280 ft
-1,302 ft
3h 20
Moderate
Departure from Ardèche
From the village of Beaumont, set off to explore the Beaume, the Gua Bridge, and the hamlets of Le Serre, L’Elze, Flacouze and more. Magnificent views and landscapes typical of the Cévennes in the Ardèche!
Circular Banne route via Le Mazel and Montgros
3.69 mi
+522 ft
-525 ft
2h 10
Easy
Departure from Banne (Ardèche)
A short walk that climbs up to the heights above the charming little village of Banne and descends back down via a pretty paved slanting street.
Thines - Montselgues circuit
11.10 mi
+2,149 ft
-2,123 ft
7h 00
Difficult
Departure from Malarce-sur-la-Thines (Ardèche)
A pleasant loop, first through chestnut trees and then along the Roman road on the plateau above Montselgues.
Ferme de l'Espinas circular loop
5.86 mi
+1,765 ft
-1,785 ft
4h 15
Moderate
Departure from Malarce-sur-la-Thines (Ardèche)
A very pretty path, mostly paved slanting street and mostly open, offering views of the valley, the village of Thines and the surrounding ridges.
At the top of the circular route, you will discover the Ferme de l'Espinas, dating from the 13th and 14th centuries and listed as a historic monument.
The Granges Necropolis
3.64 mi
+167 ft
-167 ft
1h 50
Easy
Departure from Berrias-et-Casteljau (Ardèche)
The Granges Necropolis is one of the most important dolmen sites in Ardèche. This short, easy circuit allows hikers to discover some of them while enjoying the landscape, vegetation and waterways of the limestone plateaus of lower Ardèche.
Combe Longue, Bannelle and Le Mazel
4.17 mi
+971 ft
-997 ft
2h 45
Difficult
Departure from Banne (Ardèche)
A pleasant hike offering the chance to discover, first and foremost, a typical landscape of lush vegetation (particularly holm oaks) interspersed with limestone formations.
Also particularly interesting is the crossing of a sharp limestone pavement at the summit of Bannelle. This is a limestone plateau that has been eroded over time, forming joints that give it a ruin-like appearance.
The upper Ganière valley and the Sentier du Facteur
7.25 mi
+2,205 ft
-2,178 ft
5h 15
Difficult
Departure from Les Vans (Ardèche)
One of the most beautiful routes in the Vans region, both in terms of scenery and heritage. Balcony paths, chestnut groves and drying rooms, a gold-bearing river, low walls and beehives carved into chestnut tree trunks: everything invites you to discover this enclave of the Ardèche and its hamlets, which were once only accessible on foot.
Be careful, there are steep and very steep ascents and descents. Allow 5 hours for the route, plus extra time for wandering around.
The hamlets of Valouse and Cessenades as seen from Le Frontal
4.55 mi
+1,234 ft
-1,227 ft
3h 10
Moderate
Departure from Malons-et-Elze (Gard)
An easy walk that allows you to discover the isolated hamlets typical of this region of the Cévennes, as well as its vast chestnut groves.
Short circular loop in Banne
1.16 mi
+233 ft
-249 ft
0h 45
Easy
Departure from Banne (Ardèche)
The village of Banne is charming and the view from the ruins of the castle, destroyed during the Revolution, is quite breathtaking. The walk described here is very short and easy, unless you prefer not to walk on a stony path. Perfect as a pre-dinner or after-dinner stroll.
Viewpoint from the Brison Tower from the Pont du Gua bridge
5.81 mi
+1,755 ft
-1,742 ft
4h 10
Moderate
Departure from Sanilhac (Ardèche)
A lovely loop starting from Pont du Gua, in the south of the Ardèche Méridionale. Along the banks of the Beaume River, this hike has a Mediterranean feel, surrounded by holm oaks, heather and black rocks. There is a steep climb and two short, slightly technical sections before reaching the iconic tower, steeped in history and legend, then a relaxing descent along a forest track in partial shade. You can swim at Pont du Gua and eat and drink at the restaurant in the hamlet of Gua.
The Beaume Gorges and the Tour de Brison as seen from the Pont du Gua
8.57 mi
+2,992 ft
-2,989 ft
6h 35
Difficult
Departure from Sanilhac (Ardèche)
This circular path begins with a beautiful path running alongside the Gorges de la Baume. From the Tour de Brison, a 360° view of the Ardèche mountains unfolds before you.
The Tower of Brison and the hamlets around Rocles and Beaumont
11.31 mi
+3,497 ft
-3,484 ft
8h 15
Difficult
Departure from Sanilhac (Ardèche)
A challenging route: the distance and elevation gain are significant. It’s a tough start with a 500-metre climb over the first 3 kilometres.Exceptional views from the Tour de Brison. Elsewhere, the scenery is less spectacular, but I really enjoy the succession of woodland, hamlets and streams.Very little tarmac and narrow, challenging paths that require you to be vigilant.
Circular on the Espinasse ridge
6.92 mi
+2,064 ft
-2,060 ft
5h 00
Difficult
Departure from Sablières (Ardèche)
A long climb up the ridge with a balcony view of Sablières and the valley, and beautiful meadows at the top. The descent is through the forest on slightly stony paths, passing through the hamlets of Lacham de Merle and Granzial.
La Tour de Brison
8.43 mi
+1,444 ft
-1,447 ft
5h 10
Moderate
Departure from Sanilhac (Ardèche)
According to an old legend, "every year the devil takes a stone" from La Tour de Brison. This restored medieval tower is now a very effective fire lookout post. For hikers, it offers a remarkable view of the mountain to the west and the wide landscape it overlooks to the east, stretching as far as Mont Ventoux on a clear day.
The steps of Sabuscles – Malbosc – Pont de Malbosquet
2.88 mi
+866 ft
-856 ft
2h 05
Easy
Departure from Malbosc (Ardèche)
A short walk along pleasant Cévennes paths. A route that begins with a magnificent staircase made of splendid schist slabs, and a series of small steps allowing you to cross the various accols (or faïsses: terms meaning terraced farmland) once maintained for cultivation.
Also worth noting is a distinctive feature of the Malbosquet Bridge, where one of the parapets has a pointed section in the middle, into which a slab has been set to form a seat.
