A multi-thematic walking extravaganza in the Cevennes hills.
Walking in Cevennes is a fascinating journey from megalithic to modern times, depicting man’s enduring capacity to overcome whatever obstacles are thrown in his way. At a time when we are witnessing a 'back-to-nature' movement, Cevennes is an oasis of forgotten life for your delectation and exploration.
Fact File:
- Self-guided, moderate, walking.
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Six nights, with five days of walking in Cevennes and arrivals any day all year round.
Please click through the following points or alternatively scroll down the page.
a) Theme
b) Photos & Location
c) Model walking tour: Walking in Cevennes
d) Access
e) Accommodation
f) What's Included
a) Theme
Arguably one of our most enigmatic walking holidays in France, Walking in Cevennes is your first exposure to an area of extraordinary beauty and cultural diversity. Cevennes is characterised by waves of slopes and narrow valleys - a paradise for walkers who like great scenery without the isolation and danger that epitomises walking in The Alps and The Pyrenees.
Along the way, and as you enjoy Cevennes landscapes, you have the opportunity to explore a multitude of themes that have marked human life in this part of France since the middle ages:
a) the oppression of the French Huguenots that gave birth to Cevennes as 'Terre de refuge' for Spanish Republican, Jews, Maquis fighters and latterly hippy escapists
ii) The rise and fall of political economies, and countryside exodus, resulting from the 'Idea of Progress,' and tentative efforts to re-settle, preserve ancient crafts and explore alternative, green futures.
iii) Man’s struggle to strike a balance between structuring and protecting his environment.
Cevennes life is our common heritage in microcosm and Walking in Cevennes is the best way to become acquainted with its singular attraction. Let us personalise the experience for you and your companions.
b) Further Information
Walking Cevennes Heaven
- For other Cevennes walking holidays with different themes, see:
Walking and Riding the Cevennes Railway
c) Model Programme: Walking in Cevennes
Day 1. Gateway to The Cévennes.
Arrival and hotel check-in in Alès.Visit to this modern and attractive market town.Tour briefing at hotel.
Night in Alès.
Day 2. Montclar Pass. 10 miles -15kms, with shorter option.
Short train ride to Génolhac and a hike in the heart of Hugeunot country. After a criss-cross of a climb up an ancient drovers' trail, you reach a picturesque plateau, a scenic pass and, for the brave, a short, steep climb that will reward you with views no camera can reproduce.
Second night in Alès.
Day 3. Cevennes Panorama. 12 miles-18 kms.
The day starts with a taxi transfer to the start of the trail. You walk to Mialet across the mountain crest with outstanding views eastwards over the entire Garrigue as far as Mont Ventoux in Provence and beyond to the Alps; northwards to Mont Lozere, south-westwards to Mont Aigoual and southwards to Pic St Loup and the Mediterranean. You can also visit The Protestant Museum en route.
Night near Anduze.
Day 4. La Fage. 9.5 miles-14.5 kms
Great views continue today, with more hill-crest walking and an orientation table with spectacular views soth westwards to Mount Aigoule. Descending into the valley, you see chestnut groves and a working farm before arriving at the Grotte des Camisards and the Pont des Camisards.
Second night near Anduze.
Day 5. Mialet to St Jean du Gard. 5.5 miles-8kms.
Today you walk only the morning, along the Gardon Valley and follow the GR 61 to St Jean. There's plenty to do in the afternoon: steam train and picture-postcard ‘gare’, history museum, castle, cafes and restaurants.
Night in St Jean du Gard.
Day 6. Corniche des Cevennes. 10 miles-15kms.
The grande finale of the week: climb an ancient drovers' trail, walked by Robert Louis Stevenson in 1878, to a memorable 360 degree panorama.
Second night in St Jean du Gard.
Day 7. End of your hiking in France.
Tour de-briefing. Transfer back to Alès. Au revoir et à bientôt.
d) Access
Your hiking in Ales. Best access is via Nimes airport or TGV railway station, with a short onward train journey to Ales. Montpellier is the next best alternative.
The 6-night tour ends in St Jean du Gard. You are collected from St Jean on Day 7 and transfered to Ales.
Option to leave your car in secure parking in Ales and collect it upon your return.
e) Accommodation
You stay:
• Two nights in Ales
• Two nights near Anduze
• Two nights in St Jean du Gard
Your accommodation is:
• Three 2-star character hotels
• En-suite facilities
• two with outdoor swimming pool*
Note: this walking holiday is available all year round. Precise accommodation will vary according to season, but will be of the same standard.
f) What's included in Walking in Cevennes
Included
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6 nights B & B
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4 picnic lunches and 2 evening meals
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Luggage transfers and all transport integral to the programme,
including return train tickets on Day 2 and return transfer from St Jean to Ales at end of tour
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Pre-tour briefing and post-tour de-briefing
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Cell-phone loan for non-Europeans if required, subject to availability
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Car parking in Ales for the duration of your walking tour where required*
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France Hiking Insight Notes™ that empower & make orientation easy
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Themed vacation dossier
- Emergency telephone help-line service with local British backup.
Not included
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Remaining meals - these will be bought or taken in Ales and St Jean, large towns with plenty of choice.
- Personal expenses
- Travel, walking and personal insurance
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Single rooms – unless booking at single person rate
* Parking is at customer's risk.
g) Prices 2010: Walking in Cevennes
Price per person based on 2 persons sharing £545.00 or €595.00
room
Single person rate £715.00 or €795.00
Extra nights On Request
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