Highlights
Experiencing one of the prettiest sections of the trail - marked by magnificent architecture, crosses, statues and grain silos
Exploring the interesting town of Le Puy-en-Velay and Conques
Enjoying the camaraderie of fellow hikers and pilgrims
Learning about the tale of the “Bête du Gévaudan” (Beast of the Gévaudan).
Viewing the contrasting landscapes and architecture between the volcanic plateau of the Velay and the granite plateau of the Gévaudan
Itinerary
Trace the medieval pilgrimage route of the Way of St James on the Le Puy Camino, a 12-day self-guided walking tour from Le Puy-en-Velay to Conques in France. This moderate trek is tailored for experienced travelers and seniors who relish history and the joy of slow travel. Pass through volcanic highlands, granite villages, and rolling countryside, encountering Romanesque churches, ancient monasteries, and a rich tapestry of religious art along the way.
The journey offers not only spiritual significance but also culinary delights and picturesque villages, making it one of France’s most rewarding walking trips. The highlight? Immersing yourself in centuries-old traditions while exploring scenic, lesser-known regions of the French heartland.
day 1Arrival in Le Puy en Velay
Arrive in historic Le Puy-en-Velay, a pilgrimage centre since the Middle Ages. This ancient town is surrounded by a volcanic landscape dominated by rocky peaks rising from the valley floor. We recommend that you allow at least half a day to explore its narrow streets and warm up your walking legs climbing the 267 steps to the Chapel of St Michael d'Aiguilhe. Built by Godescalc after his pilgrimage to Santiago in AD951, you'll have great views over the town and surrounding area. You can also visit some of the many museums and the striking Romanesque Cathedral of Notre-Dame.
day 2Walk to Saint-Privat-d'Allier (5-6hrs)
day 3Descend the gorges of Allier and ascend to Saugues (4-5 hrs)
day 4Cross the Margeride plateau to Les Faux or St Alban (7-8hrs)
day 5Into the Truyère valley and continue to Aumont-Aubrac (5-6hrs)
day 6To Nasbinals (7hrs)
day 7To St Chely d’Aubrac (4-5hrs)
day 8Continue to St Come d'Olt or Espalion (4/5.5hrs)
day 9Follow the Lot river to Estaing (3-4hrs)
day 10Continue to Golinhac (4hrs)
day 11To the medieval village of Conques (6hrs)
day 12Trip concludes, or continue to Cahors
What's Included
Customer Reviews
I was very pleased with the accommodations and service provided. I had a wonderful experience on the Via Podiensis. Thank you!
Luggage transfers had no hiccups. Only one accommodation site unsatisfactory.
We enjoyed the trip. Our main issue was that although we requested the trip information to be sent before we left home, and gave UTracks our leaving date on more than one occasion, it arrived when we were in Scotland, so downloading it was more difficult and we didn't feel particularly well supported. The measurements of distances were longer than those stated nearly every day.
Difficult walk in beautiful scenery.
Well organised!
Monthly Price Comparison
Good to Know
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