Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims who, for over a thousand years, travelled through France on their way to the shrine of the Apostle James the Elder at Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Follow the Grande Randonnée (GR) 65, a long distance walking path, to travel the first 100 km of the Way of St. James from Le Puy to Aumant-Aubrac. Cross the rugged countryside of the Auvergne and the Massif Central, through picturesque towns and past the roadside crosses, chapels, and looming fortresses that marked the way for the faithful in centuries past.

For any traveller interested in history, art, culture and gastronomy the Camino de Santiago certainly ranks as one of the most spectacular trips in the world. On this tour you’ll immerse yourself in this potentially life-changing experience as you travel through rugged Auvergne countryside, to towns of historical superiority, over the beautiful Massif Central and through lively cultural hotspots.

Chemin de St. Jacques Hiking 7 Days

Le Puy-en-Velay

Le Puy-en-Velay, France

Day 1+2

Saugues

Saugues, France

Day 3+4

Saint-Alban-sur-Limagnole

Saint-Alban-sur-Limagnole, France

Day 5

Aumont-Aubrac

Aumont-Aubrac, France

Day 6+7

Trip Inclusions

What’s Included

  • 6 nights hotels
  • All breakfasts and one dinner
  • Luggage transfers
  • Comprehensive Tour Details with detailed pre-trip information
  • GPS routes and maps
  • Orientation with our Area Manager
  • Area Manager available on call throughout the tour
  • Access to Loyalty Program and other exclusive benefits

Particulars

Departure Dates

Start any start date between May 1 and Sep 30.
Custom trips are also available and can start any date, call or email for details.

Total Days

7 days / 6 nights

Arrive/Depart

Le Puy-en-Velay / Aumont-Aubrac

Activity Level

Avid
13 to 24 km daily (7 to 14 mi), averaging 18.5 km (11.5 mi)
This trip is suited to experienced hikers

Terrain

Climbs and descents which can be steep and require caution if the weather is wet

Cost

Classic Accommodation: US $2,150
Single Supplement: US $540

Please note: Final itinerary is subject to revision; any changes made are done so in an attempt to provide the best possible trip given route conditions and available services. Due to the nature of our business and exchange rates, prices are subject to change. All prices quoted are U.S. dollars but we gladly accept payment in Canadian dollars also. If you have any questions before making your reservation, please contact us.

Getting There

The tour starts in the town of Le Puy-en-Velay, located about 360 km south of Paris.

There are several trains every day from Paris. The trip takes around six hours and usually requires at least one change.


1

Day 1

Le Puy-en-Velay

Arrive in stunning Le Puy-en-Velay, one of the four main starting points for the pilgrimage to Compostela. Pilgrims gathered at the magnificent Cathédrale-de-Notre-Dame before their departure.

2

Day 2

Saint-Privat D’Allier

Follow the pilgrims’ route past churches of volcanic rock and fields where the famous green lentils of Le Puy grow. Their distinctive taste is said to be due to the volcanic soil in which they grow. Arrive in the small town of Saint-Privat D’Allier.

Hike Distance: 22 km; elevation gain: 580 m

3

Day 3

Saugues

Head across the plateau through Rochegude, a frontier stronghold; pause at the chapel of St. James where pilgrims stopped for devotions. Today’s destination is Saugues which English mercenaries, left unemployed by the end of the Hundred Years’ War, occupied until they were paid off.

Hike Distance: 18 km; elevation gain: 400 m

4

Day 4

Saugues

Cross the Margaride plateau, through pine forests and small villages and past ruined castles to Domaine du Sauvage, a scattering of farm buildings near the site of a pilgrims’ hospice. A taxi will pick you up and transfer you back to Saugues, where you’ll spend a second night.

Hike Distance: 19 km; elevation gain: 200 m

5

Day 5

Saint-Alban-sur-Limagnole

Start with a taxi transfer to Domaine du Sauvage, from where you head into the countryside past the Chapelle Saint-Roch; visit Le Rouget, built of the red sandstone so widely used in the region. You’ll see it again in the cathedral and chateau when you arrive in Saint-Alban-sur-Limagnole.

Hike Distance: 13 km; elevation gain: 350 m

6

Day 6

Aumont-Aubrac

Walk through woods, across moors, beside pastures with old stone walls, and along an ancient Roman road to the charming town of Aumont-Aubrac.

Hike Distance: 15 km; elevation gain: 200 m

7

Day 7

Depart

Enjoy a short stroll in Aumont-Aubrac before departing for your next adventure.

Classic

Dyke Hotel, Le Puy en Velay

Charming hotel in the heart of Le Puy which offers comfortable rooms and a cozy setting. Located close to the train station and the historical centre.

Hôtel de la Vieille Auberge, Saint Privat d’Allier

This small, traditional hotel boasts beautiful views of the gorges and rocky outcrop of the village. The restaurant offers wonderful regional specialties.

Hôtel La Terrasse, Saugues

A modest, but comfortable hotel with large rooms and good restaurant in the center of Saugues. The family managing the hotel gives a warm welcome.

Relais st Roch – Chateau de la Chastre, Saint Alban sur Limagnole

Christian Chavignon has made this 19th century residence a haven of peace and tranquility.The service is warm and the rooms are charming and relaxing.The restaurant "la Petite Maison", provides generous, authentic dishes which will satisfy the most discerning gourmet.

Hôtel Chez Camillou, Aumont d’Aubrac

This 3-star hotel has comfortable rooms equipped with all modern amenities and an excellent restaurant.

Randonnee tours offers cycling and walking trips in France

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