Le Puy Camino - Le Puy to Conques
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of France, tracing the footsteps of ancient pilgrims along the historic trail from Le Puy-en-Velay to Conques. This journey offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. Each day presents a new adventure, from exploring medieval towns and picturesque villages to traversing stunning landscapes and savoring regional specialties. With comfortable accommodations and expert guidance, this tour promises an enriching experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Join us on this captivating journey and create lasting memories as you discover the hidden gems of France.
Included
11 breakfasts, 10 dinners (no dinner in Le Puy en Velay): Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, cheese, ham, tea, coffee & juices. Dinner will consist of 2-3 courses, usually starting with a salad, followed by a chicken, red meat, fish or pasta dish & finishing with a dessert of fruit or cakes or cheese.
Luggage transfer - strictly 1 bag of 13kg per person. Excess charges per bag apply
11 nights in a combination of cosy guesthouses, B&Bs and 2-3 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities. Optional hotel upgrade (with pool) at Aumont available - supplement applies
During the trip you will be accommodated in a combination of cosy guesthouses, B&Bs and 2-3 star hotels on a twin share basis generally with ensuite facilities. Some of the gîtes may have shared bathrooms and you will need to bring your own soap. The eclectic mix of accommodations is one of the great attractions of the trip, with the Chambres d'hôtes offering home style cuisine and house wine, and the gastronomy in the hotels ranging from good to excellent.
Digital information pack: navigational App (can be used offline) with route notes & maps.
Visitor tax
Emergency hotline
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Le Puy-en-Velay
- Le Puy-en-Velay - Arrival day
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- Cathédrale Notre-Dame-du-Puy
- Château de Polignac
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Begin your journey in the historic town of Le Puy-en-Velay, a revered pilgrimage center since medieval times. Nestled amidst a volcanic landscape, this ancient town offers a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. Spend your day exploring its charming narrow streets and ascend the 267 steps to the Chapel of St Michael d'Aiguilhe for panoramic views. Discover the town's rich heritage by visiting its museums and the striking Romanesque Cathedral of Notre-Dame. Overnight stay at a local hotel (or similar).
Day 2 – Day 2: Le Puy-en-Velay to St Privat d'Allier
- Le Puy-en-Velay
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Embark on your walking adventure from the cathedral in Le Puy-en-Velay, where the trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Traverse the rural beauty of the Velay Mountains, passing through fields of renowned green lentils. As you journey through the heart of the volcanic Deves chain, you'll arrive at the quaint village of St Privat d'Allier. Enjoy a restful night at a local gîte (or similar).
Day 3 – Day 3: St Privat d'Allier to Saugues
Day 3: St Privat d'Allier to Saugues
Today's journey takes you across the valley, passing through the village of Rochegude, known for its St Jacques Chapel. Descend to the river at Monistrol before tackling a challenging ascent beyond Rognac. Your destination is the historic village of Saugues, celebrated for its mushrooms, wooden shoes, and as a gathering point for pilgrims from the Auvergne. Overnight stay at a local inn (or similar).
Day 4 – Day 4: Saugues to Les Faux or St Alban sur Limagnole
Day 4: Saugues to Les Faux or St Alban sur Limagnole
- Église Saint-Laurent du Puy-en-Velay
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Experience the picturesque beauty of the Margeride Plateau as you journey through vast grassy plains and moors. The trail is gentle, with highlights including the St Roch Chapel and L'Hospitalet du Dauvage Chapel, a historic site for pilgrims. Depending on availability, your overnight stay will be in Les Faux or St Alban sur Limagnole. Accommodation at a local guesthouse (or similar).
Day 5 – Day 5: Les Faux to Aumont-Aubrac
Day 5: Les Faux to Aumont-Aubrac
Continue your journey from Les Faux, descending into the Truyere valley before traversing the expansive Margeride plain. Admire the Roman church of the Estrets, with its unique architectural features, before reaching Aumont-Aubrac. Enjoy a comfortable stay at a local hotel (or similar) in Aumont-Aubrac.
Day 6 – Day 6: Aumont-Aubrac to Nasbinals
Day 6: Aumont-Aubrac to Nasbinals
Depart from Aumont-Aubrac and traverse the beautiful pine forests before reaching the expansive Aubrac plateau. This region is known for its 'burons,' traditional shelters where cheese is made. Discover the heritage of the famous Laguiole knife and cheese as you make your way to Nasbinals. Overnight stay at a local guesthouse (or similar).
Day 7 – Day 7: Nasbinals to St-Chely d'Aubrac
Day 7: Nasbinals to St-Chely d'Aubrac
Journey through the heart of the Aubrac plateau, where the ancient tradition of transhumance is still alive. Enjoy a lunch break at a local 'buron' or country inn, sampling regional specialties like 'aligot.' The highest point of the entire 750km trail is just before Aubrac. Explore the remnants of an ancient 'Domerie' in Aubrac before reaching St-Chely d'Aubrac. Overnight stay at a local hotel (or similar).
Day 8 – Day 8: St-Chely d'Aubrac to St-Côme d'Olt or Espalion
Day 8: St-Chely d'Aubrac to St-Côme d'Olt or Espalion
Leave the Aubrac region and descend into the Lot valley, reaching the picturesque village of St-Côme d'Olt, recognized as one of France's most beautiful villages. Explore the remnants of historic bridges over the Lot river. Depending on availability, your accommodation may be in Espalion, known for its UNESCO-listed Pont Vieux and vibrant riverfront. Overnight stay at a local hotel (or similar).
Day 9 – Day 9: St-Côme d'Olt to Estaing
Day 9: St-Côme d'Olt to Estaing
- Musée Fenaille
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Continue your journey along the Lot river, arriving at the charming village of Estaing, renowned for its Gothic bridge and majestic chateau. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the annual St Fleuret fair if visiting in July. Overnight stay at a local hotel (or similar) in Estaing.
Day 10 – Day 10: Estaing to Golinhac
Day 10: Estaing to Golinhac
Embark on a straightforward walk, ascending early to enjoy panoramic views across the hills. Arrive in Golinhac, where you can explore its remarkable church, preserving the Roman foundations of a Benedictine priory. Overnight stay at a local hotel (or similar) in Golinhac.
Day 11 – Day 11: Golinhac to Conques
Day 11: Golinhac to Conques
Today's walk is a favorite among pilgrims, offering breathtaking views of the village of Conques as you descend into the Ouche valley. Discover the village's pointed roofs and the dominating towers of the Saint Foy Abbey-Church, a masterpiece of Romanesque art. Relax in one of the local bars and soak in the charming atmosphere. Overnight stay at a local hotel (or similar) in Conques.
Day 12 – Day 12: Departure from Conques
Day 12: Departure from Conques
Conclude your memorable journey with a hearty breakfast in Conques. If you wish to extend your stay or continue to the next stage to Cahors, we can assist with additional arrangements. Depart with cherished memories of your multi-day adventure through the enchanting landscapes and historic villages of France.
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