Gratens walks

With the Pyrenees as a backdrop, this route takes you along wide paths where you can enjoy the charm of the countryside with its oak woods, lakes and pretty houses. Walkers should note that much of the route is on tarmac or stone paths, which is ideal in wet weather but may not be to everyone's liking.

Discover the lakes of Peyssies and their many activities starting from the church. The church, built of brick and pebbles, showcases the typical architecture of the Volvestre region, while the lakes offer a breath of fresh air in all seasons. The walk around the large lake is accessible to wheelchair users, as are the fishing pontoons. The small lake is home to a heronry, a central island where many species of birds nest. You can rest in the shade of the large weeping willows or on the benches along the banks. Two restaurants welcome you if you feel peckish after your walk. 20/07/2023 Moderator's message: Hike modified between (S/E) and (2) to avoid private property on Montgiscart.

The origins of the commune date back to Roman times, with the Roman road from Dax to Toulouse crossing the territory. During this walk, you will discover the history of the village named L'Aveylas or L'Aveynas in the 13th century (a place planted with hazelnut trees) and its 15th-century castle. This easy, flat walk takes you through the surrounding fields and the village along small roads and paths.

This hike, mainly on quiet asphalt roads and farm tracks, can be done after rain. Do not follow the signpost at the start indicating a left turn; you must turn right. The signposting is somewhat unclear as it crosses several routes, so follow the app and the description. There are some beautiful views as the route follows a ridge line.

The Volvestre inter-communal tourist office offers a marked and secure route. The "balade des abris" (shelter walk) takes you in the footsteps of the visual artist and sculptor Laurent Cadilhac, who created nine shelters combining history, art and sculpture. You will start the walk in the Bois de Castres, which also has an orienteering course, a fitness trail and a socio-cultural centre.

This beautiful hike takes you to the heights of Carbonne and the meeting point of the Garonne and Arize rivers.

A large figure of 8 in the hills, with views of the Pyrenees: the Pic du Midi, Mont Valier, Néouvielle, etc.

The Volvestre inter-communal tourist office offers a marked and secure route. This circular loop is a little hillier towards the end. You will start by discovering the plains of Renaudis and its medieval residence. Once you arrive at the picnic area, enjoy the view of the Pyrenees.

Formerly known as "Le Chemin des Mules" (The Mule Track), this smuggling route was also a Roman road and a route to Compostela. Starting from Sainte-Marie Cathedral, you will first discover the historic centre of this most beautiful detour in France. The trail then offers magnificent panoramic views of the Garonne plain and the river before arriving at the Gallic Village. There are four picnic spots along the route, and you can refill your water bottles at the fountains in the historic centre. Public toilets are available on the cathedral square.

The Lac de la Linde and Le Garros hike is a very easy route offering views of two of Longages' castles and their large fields (Le Garros plain) with a magnificent view of the Pyrenees.

Starting from the village of Longages, this route invites you to discover the historical heritage of the centre and then its lakes. Don't miss the Art Deco market hall: there are only two of this type left in France! Lake Sabatouse offers you the tranquillity of a natural setting with many birds nesting or passing through. Along the lake, you will find picnic tables and a fitness trail with a small climbing wall for children. In summer, the water sports centre offers canoeing, kayaking and XXL paddleboarding, while the guinguette treats you to meals and a musical programme.

This hike forms a circular figure-eight loop starting from Capens, with views of the Pyrenees.

(!) The trail can be overgrown, so be careful and make sure you are well equipped. The Volvestre Intercommunal Tourist Office offers a marked trail. The Roman road trail, with a slight incline, is accessible to families. Approximately four kilometres long, it starts and ends at the village square.

This short, figure-of-eight walk takes you along quiet paths and trails where you can observe wildlife, the hillside forest and the 14th-century Saint-Pierre de Birac Chapel. In spring, you can see many different species of orchids; there is an information panel behind the chapel to help you identify them.

Countryside landscapes, Bois des Escoumes woods, Pré Cahuzac walk.

Discover the local area in the heart of nature. Departure from the commune of Palaminy, on the right bank of the Garonne, at the hamlet of Les Pesquès on the D62. Stay alert, as you will be walking on tarmac roads for much of the route, although there is not much traffic; I only came across one vehicle. However, beautiful paths and tracks await you, and the Ruisseau des Goutères stream is a sight to behold. The route is very well signposted, even if some points are hidden by dense vegetation. Thanks to the Department.

The Volvestre inter-communal tourist office offers a marked and secure route. Starting from the Saint-Christaud keep, this walk takes you through the hillsides of Volvestre, with regular ascents and descents. You can admire numerous views of the Pyrenees mountain range and discover the agriculture of Volvestre, its fields and cattle farms. This sunny hike allows you to enjoy magnificent views of the snow-capped Pyrenees in winter and spring.

This hike takes place on the hillsides between the Lèze and Garonne valleys. The first part leads to the banks of the Garonne, then climbs back up the hillsides, offering beautiful views of the two valleys and the Pyrenees mountain range. After climbing up from the banks of the Garonne, you will walk from valley to valley.

A walk between Mauzac and Montaut with beautiful views of the Pyrenees and the surrounding hillsides.

This circular walk will introduce you to a mix of nature, urban life and countryside. Between the Garonne and its banks, the viewpoint and its view of the Pyrenees, the forests and the fields, there is something for everyone. You can enjoy an educational trail on natural environments along the Garonne before taking the climb that leads you to a superb viewpoint over the river and its valley. In spring, several species of orchids can be seen along the trail. Also, don't hesitate to stop at the Brasserie du Moulin next to the bridge, where you'll find the largest collection of rugby shirts in Europe!

Starting from the beautiful medieval village of Montesquieu-Volvestre, discover a rural getaway on the paths and ridge roads. After a beautiful climb, you can admire the Pyrenees mountain range from the Castera orientation table. It was made of ceramic by the famous artist Toutain with the children of the village. The peaks of the Pyrenees will hold no more secrets for you! A picnic table awaits you right next to it. The panorama sometimes offers 360° views of the Arize plain and the Volvestre hillsides. At the end of the route, you will quickly follow the wild Arize river.

The Volvestre Intercommunal Tourist Office offers a marked and secure route. This hike will allow you to discover the Gouzens area between hills and streams. You will see many farms with horses, cows, sheep and goats. The first part is accessible and follows a country road, allowing you to enjoy the sun and views of the fields. The second part passes through hedgerows and forest. It is possible to cut the trail in half by going directly to point 6 from the start.

The Volvestre Intercommunal Tourist Office offers a marked and secure route.Between small roads and paths, this walk takes you through the hillsides, offering magnificent views of the Pyrenees. You will pass through several wooded areas and numerous fields, where it is not uncommon to see farm animals and crops in bloom. Renowned for the quality of its skies, Latrape is the perfect place to observe the beauty of the stars and sunsets. If you would like to learn more about astronomy, Le Balcon des Étoiles is located at the start/end of the loop.

Walk between Labastidette and Le Lherm. Pass through the fields between Sardelis Castle and the aerodrome, then walk quietly along the Saint-Martory Canal.