Balsièges walks

A walk to discover this pretty little medieval town in the Gorges du Tarn, one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France".

Menhirs are found in Brittany. The proof: the name itself is of Breton origin (maen hir = long stone). And even more so when they are made of granite. But if I told you that one of Europe's main megalithic sites is in Lozère, would you believe me? The standing stones along this route at the foot of Mont Lozère are like those scattered by Tom Thumb: just follow them to find your way.

In the heart of the Tarn Gorges, Saint-Chély du Tarn is a little gem nestled in the cirque of the same name. Its wealth comes from the limestone plateau above and the bridge that crosses the river. What a contrast between the cool, green gorge and the arid plateau! But these are two sides of the same interactive landscape. It's up to you to discover them.

An easy hike in the mineral world of the Causse Méjean: a plateau marked by both austerity and gentle tranquillity. You will stroll through a landscape full of curves, between hills and sinkholes at the bottom of which you will discover a lavogne (a small, circular depression in the ground) or a small cultivated field: one of the characteristic landscapes of the UNESCO-listed sites. (Route information provided by the Gorges du Tarn, Causses & Cévennes tourist office).

Hike around Lake Charpal in a completely unspoilt protected natural site. The path does not stray far from the lake, so the elevation gain is very low and the route is easy. Much of the route is through woodland, ideal in summer when it is hot.

Tenth stage of a complete journey on the Chemin de Stevenson between Le Puy-en-Velay and Alès. This stage may involve significant changes to the GR®70 signposting. This stage essentially follows the Mimente valley before it flows into the Tarnon at Florac.

Eighth stage of a complete journey on the Chemin de Stevenson between Le Puy-en-Velay and Alès. This stage may involve significant changes from the GR®70 signposting, and corresponds to the North-South crossing of the Mont Lozère massif.

Four-day loop in Aubrac to discover the landscapes of Lozère, with stages of around 20 km. This route mainly follows the GRP® Tour des Monts d'Aubrac (yellow and red markings) and the GR® 65 (Way of St James) in the opposite direction.

First stage of a four-day circuit. Magnificent landscapes of the Aubrac and a route with many shaded sections. Option to climb up to Signal de Mailhebiau once you arrive at the refuge (don't hesitate to ask the owners). This hike mainly follows the GRP® Tour des Monts d'Aubrac (yellow and red markings).

Mont Lozère rises to 1,699 metres, making it the highest point in the Cévennes. However, its geological nature sets it apart from the rest of the massif. This imposing granite wall closes off the schist valleys of the Cévennes and heralds the high plateaus of southern Auvergne. It also offers magnificent views of all the peaks of the southern Massif Central, as far as Mont Ventoux. Best explored in good weather.

An easy hike on the Causse Méjean, passing through three hamlets. You can visit a protohistoric enclosure at the highest point of the hike and see the karstic cave near the hamlet of Hure.

Ninth stage of a complete journey on the Chemin de Stevenson between Le Puy-en-Velay and Alès. This stage features significant changes to the GR®70 signposting, taking an alternative route to the GR®70 for much of the way. This means that the stage is substantially shorter than the official route. This stage marks the entry of the Chemin de Stevenson into the Cévennes region.

Hike on the Corniches du Causse Méjean above the Gorges du Tarn.

This is the fourth and final stage of a four-day tour of the Aubrac region. You will follow part of the Compostela Way (GR®65) in the opposite direction and part of the GRP® Tour des Monts d'Aubrac. This stage has the most sections along roads (with little traffic).

Eleventh stage of a complete journey on the Chemin de Stevenson between Le Puy-en-Velay and Alès. This stage includes significant changes to the GR®70 signposting. This stage lies in the heart of the Cévennes National Park.