Belmont-sur-Rance walks

In the shade of the pink sandstone collegiate church and the surrounding woods, a peaceful escape on bushy paths, mills and hamlets, forest trails wind their way along the river Rance. Yellow markings and a ford on the Rance. ⚠️To be avoided in periods of heavy rain, otherwise one passes at ease by taking off one's shoes.

Very interesting hike as much for the landscapes (Rance valley, Rougier de Camarès) as for the culture (village of Combret, Notre-Dame d'Orient, numerous crosses). Some portions on tarmac, but with the magnificence of the small paths and the beauty of the landscape, you'll quickly forget them.

Pleasant walk starting from the centre of Camarès (you can also start from the leisure centre car park) along the Dourdou river, passing through Camarès "Ville haute" (upper town), the ruins of the old fortified town, the castle currently being restored, the rose garden, and enjoy the panoramic view from the old bell tower.

Thanks to the diversity of its landscapes, the Monts de Lacaune offer a remarkable palette of colours and a delight for hikers.

From the narrow streets of Lacaune, with its already mountainous atmosphere, the ascent to the summit of Montalet takes place in the hushed atmosphere of magnificent beech forests. The Pic de Montalet peaks at 1259 m. A day of hiking and fresh air to take in the beauty of the landscape. The 360° view of the Massif Central from the Rocher de la Vierge is breathtaking.

This hike, mostly in tree-shade, takes you through coombs and valleys to the south of Saint-Sernin-sur-Rance. Beautiful paths, some of them forgotten or seldom used, add a pleasant touch of wilderness. A breath of fresh air in absolute calm, in an unspoilt natural setting, not forgetting the two menhir statues at Pousthomy, which add a touch of historical interest to this walk.

This is a family-friendly round-trip hike offering splendid views of Lacaune and its surroundings from the famous Roc des Écus. More than half of the route follows a wide forest track, then a beautiful, easy trail that is shaded almost all the way.

Through a coniferous forest, we discover the Russian Orthodox Chapel nestled in the heart of the woods, in an idyllic green setting. Time to pause and meditate on this magical place. Superb views. The trail is mainly woodland, which is pleasant in hot weather.

Perched on a rocky promontory, at the confluence of the Tarn and Alrance rivers, the magnificent small village of Brousse-le-Château is noted for its exceptional location.

This is the second day of the Haut Languedoc trip.Loop hike around the Montagne d'Aret.Depending on how much time you have, the hike can be shortened from (1) directly to (4). Updated by the author on 10 June 2025, as the OFB reports that after (6) it is a Caroux-Espinouse hunting and wildlife reserve. Unauthorised entry is a 4th class offence punishable by a €135 fine. The route and description have therefore been modified.

Access from the village of Douch to the plateau and Roc du Caroux, then a semi-climbing route along ledges to go around the peaks and enjoy a 360° view of the Héric Gorges below. Return via the plateau to the village. ⚠️ Poor mobile phone reception in the rocks of the peaks. The circuit is challenging, so make sure you tell your friends and family about your plans.

Walk on the Caroux plateau, which offers magnificent views of the Orb valley, the Mediterranean coast and the Pyrenees.

View and passage through two villages isolated from the main roads, with beautiful stone houses. This hike may be closed depending on the fire risk. Remember to check the map.

This is the first day of the Haut Languedoc trip. It will take at least 5 hours to reach Douch. The climb to the Col de la Maure is unmarked but follows a well-marked, safe path. See § Practical information (¹).The access to the Col du Bardou is beautiful. The descent to the Ruisseau d'Héric and the climb back up to Douch via the hamlet of Héric are very varied.

An exceptional circular walk above the torrent of Arles where you can discover a cave dwelling and a superb Cervennes collection in the hamlet of Fage.