Snowshoeing around the Tourte rock

(S/E) Starting from the square opposite the tourist office, cross the D36. Follow the road down behind the tourist office. Cross the bridge over the Gazeille.

(1) Shortly after passing the house on your left (Chyere), leave the road by taking the path on the right. Then put on your snowshoes.

Quickly leave the path to climb up the slope towards Mont Rechausseyre. Follow the edge of the forest.

(2) At the junction with a track, turn right to stay along the edge of the forest below Mont Rechausseyre. Veer to the right as if you were going to go round it.

At the edge of a spruce plantation, head straight on between pastures and woodland to reach the Chemin de Peyrot. Turn right onto it and follow it to the edge of the Bois du Clergeat (signposted ‘Forêt du Mézenc’).

(3) Then climb a path that ascends to your left. Follow it to go round the Rocher Tourte through the undergrowth.
At the edge of the forest, take the path leading towards Johanel Farm.

(4) Once you’ve passed the farmhouse, join a road and follow it. Then leave the road to pass beneath the Bru farm halfway up the slope and cross the fields to reach a path leading into the forest. Join another path.

(5) Follow it to the right until you reach a crossroads. Head straight on to return to Mont Rechausseyre.

(2) Turn right to return to the starting point, following the path in the opposite direction to the outward journey (S/E).

-> You can hire snowshoes by the day from one of the three shops in the village of Les Estables that offer this service. All three are close to the start of the walk:
- Phonolithe (ski, snowshoe and sledge hire).
- Michel Sports (ski and snowshoe hire) located near the Vival grocery shop.
- 3 Kite (kitesurfing and snowshoe hire/sales) near the restaurant Les 3 Monts.

-> Given the altitude and in bad weather, it can get very cold. Wrap up warm and don’t forget to take gloves, warm socks and a hat to protect your extremities.

-> Walking with snowshoes requires more effort than a summer hike. You’ll also need to manage your time carefully for the route, as the days are short in winter.

-> After braving the elements – and because every effort deserves a reward – you can seek refuge in the warmth of a bar in the village of Les Estables for a hot drink.

- The family-friendly resort of Les Estables offers downhill skiing on the slopes of Mont Alambre. For beginners, the lower slopes feature facilities designed for learning to ski (tow lifts and baby ski areas).

- Numerous cross-country ski trails starting from the Maison Forestière car park.

- Before reaching the Col des Boutières, there’s the snowkiting area.

You can also enjoy the snow without putting on skis, on the toboggan runs.