A wonderful trek across the "Causses", a Unesco World Heritage site. There is a striking contrast between these limestone plateaux with their meditative steppe-like expanses, and the lush green gorges of the river La Vis.
The daily stages, each with its own particular interest, aim to help you explore a varied, cared-for heritage. The Cirque* of Navacelles, the mediaeval village of La Couvertoirade, the karstic rock formations of the Causses, the resurgence of the river La Vis, the menhirs...all these unforgettable sites and sounds will make yours a memorable holiday.
The Botanical Trail of Vissec highlights a wealth of flora and fauna, and the incessant flights of vultures overhead remind us that they are back in the Larzac after a long absence!
*corrie
You'll love
the beauty of the walks
the marked contrast between the arid 'Causse' and the abundant flora of the Gorges
leading your donkey into the mediaeval village of La Couvertoirade
accommodation at the very heart of the listed site of Navacelles
observing the flight of Griffon Vultures (Gyps Fulvus) over the Causse
7 kilometres, total uphill 180 metres. Level 2/5. Approximate time 2 hrs 30.
Donkey-driving initiation in the shade of a pine wood.
This first gentle stroll will help you get to know your equine companion...
The route rises quickly to give you an idea of the broad expanse of the Causse and the distant fracture of the gorges of the river, La Vis. At the highest point, beyond a confusion of hills, plains and 'étangs' (lakes near the sea), you may well see the distant 'Grande Bleue' (the Mediterranean).
Dinner, night and breakfast in La Vacquerie.
D3
From La Vacquerie to Saint Maurice-Navacelles
15.2 km stage with total uphill 140m (level 3/5). Approximate time 5hrs.
From the small village of La Vacquerie you make your way progressively into the Causses, the heartland of the Larzac, along some of the lovely paths that are typical of the region.
After Saint Maurice your route is along a clifftop walk whose attraction lies in the wonderful views over the valley of the Vis and the Cirque de Navacelles.
Dinner and night in chambre d'hôtes.
D4
Around Saint Maurice-Navacelles
11.5 km with total uphill 145metres. Level 2/5. Around 4hrs.
This is a loop walk that brings you into the heart of the Causses of the Larzac. First you go along a section of the 'GR du Pays' called Tour du Larzac Méridional (signposted regional footpath of the southern Larzac) ), then continue along a narrow footpath to get back to your accommodation. You may meet a few animals along the way... quite surprising if you're not used to it!
Dinner and night in chambre d'hôtes.
D5
Walk from Saint Maurice-Navacelles to Navacelles
14.4km stage with 180 total uphill (level 3/5). Around 5hrs.
Today you start off along a ridgeway with fabulous views over the valley. Then you go deeper into the Larzac, making your way down to the La Vis river. Towards the end of the day, you get a eye-popping look at the amazing Cirque de Navacelles and its eponymous hamlet that is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Dinner and night in chambre d'hôtes in Navacelles.
D6
Around Navacelles
6,5 km with total uphill 300 metres. (Level 2/5). Approx 2hrs30.
Today you can make the most of your stay in the mediaeval village, the cool waterside of the river La Vis and its cascades. But you are also invited to go a little higher up to better grasp and enjoy the spectacular view over this extraordinary site with its geological and topographical interest.
Evening meal and night in chambre d'hôtes in Navacelles.
D7
From Navacelles to Vissec, followed by transfer to La Vacquerie
9.9 km with total uphill of 230metres. Level 2/5. About 4hrs.
Today you wind along the river Vis on a shady woodland path - particularly pleasant on very hot days. You go up to the village of Vissec past the Moulins de la Foux (mills), which we consider a must-see on this holiday! Make the most of the lovely views over the valley of La Vis and the various cirques that have been fashioned over the centuries.
Return transfer from Home to the first accomodation
Facultative cancellation and rapatriation insurance
Characteristics of circuits
Walking holiday in the company of a donkey, suitable for families.
Recommended for children 6 and over accompanied by adults.
Daily stages: between 6,5 and 15 kms, 2hrs30 to 5hrs30 walking.
Total uphill from 140m to 300m.
Altitudes from 250 m to 800 m above sea level.
Organisation
These walks are much more about relaxed exploration than athletic performance. Your roadbook will guide you from beginning to end, and at each stage you'll find a place for the donkey to drink, eat and rest. We provide the logistical and technical support necessary.
Leading a pack donkey: travelling with a donkey is a superb way of enjoying a family walking holiday at the slow rhythm of the animal. They are great company for children and adults alike.
The donkey's role is to carry your baggage for the day. It can also, under your supervision and at your own risk, carry the children one-at-a- time if they start to feel too tired, provided that:
1) they are at least 4 years old and capable of holding themselves seated upright on the animal;
2) the terrain is even, and
3) the donkey's total load is less than 40 kilograms.
Looking after a donkey requires some attention, which is why we only provide one donkey per family per holiday.
On longer holidays you change accommodation every other day, which gives you the chance to better explore your surroundings or simply take the time to relax...
Accommodation has been selected for its atmosphere, warm welcome and environmental and architectural excellence. N.B : the accommodation described above is given as an indication and may vary according to availability at the moment your reservation is finalized.
Access
By car
Highway : A75 exit 49 Le Caylar - 16 km
By air
Marseille-Provence Airport
By train
Montpellier railway station. Then, tram and bus to Lodève. Next, bus from Lodève to La Vacquerie St-Martin with reservation available from the tourist office.
The entrance to the first accommodation is not recommended with public transport. For more informations, call the agency.
Comments
Global note
5.0
"The Larzac and Cirque de Navacelles, spectacular - between the steppe and gorges a roaming more than exotic with family, and as unique adventure jumping in Navacelles waterfalls - the so hospitable innkeepers that make each step a novelty ! (no need to go into the canyons in the US !)
Unforgettable experience by the beauty of the sites in the company of an extraordinary animal. Quality accommodation. To remake!!
Wonderful family walk through beautiful scenery in the company of our courageous "Colibri".
A wonderful trek across the "Causses" , a Unesco World Heritage site. There is a striking contrast between these limestone plateaux with their meditative steppe-like expanses, and the lush green gorges of the river La Vis.
The daily stages,…
Your holiday takes you to the meeting point of the Tarn-et-Garonne department and that of the Tarn. On one hand, there's the Quercy with its landscape of "causses" (rugged limestone plateaux), its rivers and celebrated cuisine. On the…
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