Between the Monts d'Ardèche Regional Natural Park and the Cévennes National Park, in the heart of the preserved valleys of the Cévennes d'Ardèche, this 3-day itinerary explores paths punctuated by picturesque villages and geological curiosities.
Later, we see the tower which dominates Saint-Laurent-les-Bains (vast viewpoint). The path zigzags down a valley and ends at the spa where water gushes out at 53°C in the fountain. It is possible to enjoy a panorama of the village from the works of the Watershed Line, located above the resort.
Optional stage: from La Bastide-Puylaurent to St-Laurent-Les-Bains
This optional stage, compatible with a daytime arrival by train, can be merged with the first stage to offer you a car-free alternative.
Distance: 8,1 km | Duration: 2h15 | Elevation: +229 m / -412 m
From La Bastide-Puylaurent train station, the layout is common with the GR® 7 et GR® 72 which leave the village in an easterly direction to reach Notre-Dame-des-Neiges, where Robert Louis Stevenson stopped during his journey in the Cévennes. Reach the La Croix du Pal pass, where we leave the track for a well-marked path.
Later, we see the tower which dominates Saint-Laurent-les-Bains (vast viewpoint). The path zigzags down a valley and ends at the spa where water gushes out at 53°C in the fountain. It is possible to enjoy a panorama of the village from the works of the Watershed Line, located above the resort.
Step 1: from St-Laurent-Les-Bains to Montselgues
Distance: 17,4 km | Duration: 4h50 | Elevation: +908 m / -723 m
To leave Saint-Laurent-les-Bains, the path descends near the thermal baths, runs alongside a stream then a mine to approach the D 4. It climbs on a balcony until Tressols, descends towards the Péril footbridge to cross the Borne, then climbs on the left bank, crossing hamlets, streams and beech forests.
After Chalendas, it winds among the broom towards the Red Test Pass. A track goes around the Fare mountain, overlooking the Borne valley and giving a beautiful panorama. A platform allows you to observe the vultures before Montselgues emerges, nestled against the mountain.
Stage 2: from Montselgues to Loubaresse
Distance: 12,7 km | Duration: 3h30 | Elevation: +500 m / -323 m
Follow the markings of the GR® de Pays Tour of the Ardèche MountainsAt La Borie, it joins the GR® 4, passing successively Petit-Paris, Les Cayres, the Col de la Femme Morte and the Pont de Bournet to arrive at praise this.
Accommodation
Gîte étape communal Loubaresse
Stage 3: from Loubaresse to St-Laurent-les-Bains
Distance: 9,1 km | Duration: 2h30 | Elevation: +128 m / -488 m
Follow the GR® de Pays Tour of the Ardèche Mountains which runs alongside the cemetery, crosses the D 24 and descends into the valley to pass Mas du Truc. At Conches, it joins the GR® 72 and goes back up towards Saint-Laurent-les-Bains.
