Roc de Hourtous walks

Exclusively on marked trails, this tour offers a comprehensive overview of the Causse: wooded or barren sections, ascents and descents through the Gorges de la Jonte, a walk along the Gorges du Tarn, beautiful villages, a famous karstic cave (Aven Armand), ancient remains (dolmens, menhirs), vultures – nothing is missing. The stages are generally easy, allowing you to focus on the beauty of the landscapes you pass through. Planned as a six-day tour, it can be completed in five days by combining the last two stages.

This hike offers a partial exploration of the lower reaches of the Gorges du Tarn through three of its iconic sites: the Roc des Hourtous, the Détroits and the Pas de Soucy, which marks the end of the section accessible by canoe when coming from La Malène. The route, which runs mostly through a beautiful pine forest, nevertheless offers impressive views towards the end along the Tarn, before climbing back up onto the Causse via a very strenuous ascent for which you’ll need to save your energy. The final stretch, which is more relaxing, takes you through the meadows and sparser pine woods of the Causse Méjean, ending at the Roc des Hourtous with its exceptional panoramic views, perhaps including a stop at the local restaurant, which is open in spring and summer.

Thisfourth stage of the Tour du Causse Méjean leaves the Gorges du Tarn to climb back up onto the Causse Méjean and cover nearly half of its northern section. After a steep climb to the hamlet of La Caxe, the walker first passes through wooded areas and fields before reaching more open terrain beyond Montignac. A detour via the Roc des Hourtous, with its breathtaking views of the Gorges du Tarn and the vultures, is one of the highlights of the stage.