From the village of Saint-Montan, enter the gorge by the road (in the direction of Domaine d’Imbours).
Reach the chapel (1), and take the path behind it marked in yellow/white. Walk along the climbing site, and start to climb the scree.
Two thirds of the way up, you will reach a cross. Leave the marked path and slide over to the home of the hermit Montanus. Be discreet and respect the area. A guestbook is available.
Then return to the path from where you left off and follow it to the town of Larnas (2). Turn South at the intersection after the town hall, to enter the village. Heading towards the containers, find the signs, and follow to find the path.
You enter a paddock (thank you for helping to keep enclosures secure, and close the gates after passing through). Follow the trail before continuing the descent to Saint-Montan (3). Enjoy the view. Upon reaching the village, before heading onto the streets, you can go take a look at the Lourdes cave (4).
Back to the car park.
A splendid medieval village, a hermit and his cave, a valley in the limestone hills and the views of the Rhône Valley and Mont Ventoux.
Prepare yourself for a nice, family-friendly hike, which will suit everyone.
Technical sheet
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Activity: Walking
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Distance: 6.44 km
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Calculated time: 2h 40
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Difficulty: Moderate
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Return to departure point: Yes
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Vertical gain: + 294 m
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Vertical drop: - 294 m
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Highest point: 346 m
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Lowest point: 110 m
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Country: France
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Area: Massif central
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District: Saint-Montan (07220)
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Start/End: N 44.440268° / E 4.624272°
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IGN map(s): Ref. 2938SB, 2939OT
Photos
Description of the walk
Waypoints
- S/E : km 0 - alt. 110 m
- 1 : km 1.47 - alt. 259 m - Chapel
- 2 : km 3.29 - alt. 307 m - Larnas village
- 3 : km 3.95 - alt. 338 m - Descent to Saint-Montan
- 4 : km 5.59 - alt. 180 m - Lourdes cave
- S/E : km 6.44 - alt. 110 m
Practical information
As is often the case in this region, there is no reliable drinking water refill point.
Good shoes, no flip flops, running shoes as a bare minimum. In the climb, the ground is slippery.
Many picnic sites.
In the nearby area
Visit the village of Saint Montan, and its castle. Numerous small artists’ shops. The Plateau de Gras offers lavender buds and derived products.
Another hike to the Dent de Rez is available (topographical route to come)
Reviews and comments
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The GPS track and description are the property of the author.