The Maquis Trail in Avot

The route starts from the village’s central square, near the fountain topped by the statue of Diana the Huntress.

(S/E) Take Rue de Travot towards Salives.

(1) Pass first the washhouse, then along Rue du Ruisselot, past two sites linked to the Maquis Lucius: the former operational command post at No. 8 and the former equipment store at No. 10.

(2) As you leave the village, at the last house, leave the road and take the path on the left. Follow this section, which is shared with the GR®7.

(3) At the junction, after about 750 m, carry on straight ahead.

(4) At the junction, take the path to the left

(5) At the next junction, after about 480 m, take the path on the right. Keep to the right again, then turn left twice. Continue along the GR®7 towards the Fontaine de Champignolle.

(6) Walk past the fountain, a former site associated with water-based activities, particularly the retting of hemp. A shelter and a picnic area provide a place to stop for a break.

(7) Cross the D112 with care and continue along the GR®7.

(8) After 700 m, turn left at the junction towards the Source de Vaubois.

(9) Continue along the path as it winds through the Combe Vaubois.

(10) Leave the GR®7 by taking the path on the left.

(11) After leaving the woods and passing the Trou d’Avelanges, turn left towards the Croix du Chaignot.

(12) Take the path on the right-hand side of the road leading to Avelanges. Walk through the village, past the town hall and the wash house, which offers shelter for a break. Join the D120 and follow it in the same direction.

(13) At the junction by Saint-Denis Church, cross the road and walk alongside the church on the left. Leave the village and rejoin the D120.

(14) Take the path on the left and you’ll reach the former ‘Sacristie’ parachute drop zone on your left. Return to the D120.

(15) This time, cross carefully to enter the Bois de la Montagne. Continue for 3.5 km.

(16) At the viewpoint overlooking Avot, head down to the right towards the centre of the village to reach Rue du Roitu, which leads to the D19 (Rue de Chevie).

(18) Turn left to return directly to the starting point (S/E).

The route starts from the main square in Avot. A few parking spaces are available in the square and near the town hall.

The route follows country lanes and forest tracks, as well as a section of the GR®7. Hiking boots are recommended.

Several road crossings require caution, particularly on the D112.

The route passes through woodland and hunting areas. From October to the end of February, check local conditions and observe any temporary signage that may be in place.

Please respect private property and agricultural and forestry activities, and stay on the marked paths.

Hunting: the route passes through wooded areas where hunting may be taking place. During the hunting season, check before setting off and observe any temporary signage in place on the ground. Information on current hunting activities can be found on ChasseInfo.

(1) Avot washhouse.

Maquis operational headquarters.

Maquis equipment store.

(6) Champignolles Fountain.

(9) Vaubois Spring.

(11) Avelanges Cave.

(13) Avelanges wash house/fountain.

(14) Saint-Denis Church, Avelanges.

(15) ‘Sacristie’ parachute drop zone.

(18) Avot washhouse.