- L’Autre Chemin
- Séjours
- Conclusion of the Stevenson trail from Chasseradès to Saint-Jean du Gard
€915 / pers.
Conclusion of the Stevenson Trail, from Chasseradès to Saint-Jean du Gard
Whether you’ve already completed the Introduction to the Stevenson Trail trip or not, hike the Stevenson Trail in the southern Cévennes region, starting from Chasseradès to Saint-Jean du Gard or even Alès, depending on your preference.
Hike with peace of mind and explore the final stages of the GR 70. You’ll wander through the shelter of the Goulet Forest, then climb Mont-Lozère before descending back into the Camisard lands at Pont de Montvert. The trail continues along the ridges between Tarn and Mimente to reach Florac-Trois-Rivières, where you’ll encounter the Tarn, Lot, and Tarnon rivers. Next, you’ll walk alongside the beautiful translucent pools of the Mimente River before climbing back up to Plan Fontmort. Then, the villages of Saint-Germain-de-Calberte and Saint-Etienne-Vallée-Française will welcome your hiking trails before climbing towards the Col de Saint-Pierre before reaching Saint-Jean-du-Gard. For those who wish, you can of course add a final stop to reach Alès.
The route doesn’t present any particular difficulties (except for the more challenging stage to Alès), although the elevation changes remain significant. Fortunately, the landscapes you cross are sublime!
Here are some tips to help you prepare for your hike.
What we like: The ascent of Mont Lozère, the scents of southern France along the way, and the whispers of the fresh Mimente mountain range.
Tip: The Stevenson Trail is a very popular route, especially in May, June, and September. If you can, we recommend choosing departures from Monday to Thursday. This will increase accommodation options and provide more stress-free hiking, as many hikers begin their treks on weekends ;-)
Two packages to choose :
- 8-day package from Chasseradès to Saint-Jean du Gard
- 9-day package from Chasseradès to Alès
[WEBRESA]
The benefits of your stay:
- You travel independently and follow the provided travel book
- Take advantage of our guide app to download to your smartphone (guidance, tourist information)
- Your accommodations are offered on a half-board basis
- Your luggage is delivered at each stopover (one bag max. 13kg / person – Max dimension : L + W + H : 120cm)
- Your journey back by minibus to the starting point is included in our packages
Your itinerary:
- Elevation gain 3,380 m
- Self-guided hike
- Experienced hiker: 5 to 7.30 hours of walking per day
- Family: Children aged 14 and over (experienced walking)
- Your vehicle: you can park it in the village parking lots.
- Accommodation: in a private room (B&B, cottage, hotel, or unique accommodation)
- Important to know: You are travelling from place to place, and the itinerary includes stages with varying levels of comfort.
- Train travelers: choose a trip that offers arrival before 7 p.m.; accommodation reception closes after this time.
- Tip for travelers from the South of France: We can reverse the shuttle service at your request and schedule it on the first day of your stay. This way, you can leave your car in St-Jean du Gard or Alès and take the shuttle early in the afternoon to Chasseradès.
- What’s the climate like? See our FAQ
Note: The steps are given for information purposes only and may be modified depending on host availability.
Upon arrival, your accommodation will welcome you between 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm. This gives you time to drop off your backpack, settle in and relax after your day of hiking.
In the evening, enjoy the friendly atmosphere! You’ll have the opportunity to share a meal with fellow hikers, exchange stories about the day’s walk and soak up the unique atmosphere that makes the Stevenson Trail so special.
🚆 Travelling by train?
Make sure to choose a journey that allows you to arrive at your accommodation before 7:00 pm. Unfortunately, accommodations cannot accept arrivals after this time.
Our advice: plan your arrival carefully so you can make the most of your evening and start the next stage of your hike in the best possible conditions.
Discover:
> The source of the Allier
On your way for a wonderful journey through the Cévennes!
Your adventure through the Southern Cévennes begins! From the Mirandol viaduct, the trail gradually climbs into the dense and mysterious Goulet Forest.
Sheltered beneath the trees, you’ll follow a wonderfully wild trail up towards the pass. Then it’s time to head downhill, as the path winds its way down the mountainside to the village of Les Alpiers, nestled near the source of the Lot River.
A few more kilometres and you’ll reach Le Bleymard, a charming Cévennes village where you can savour the satisfaction of a rewarding day on the trail.
A beautiful stage through forests, mountain landscapes and river sources — the perfect introduction to the wild and authentic atmosphere of the Stevenson Trail.
Discover:
• Mirandol
> The railway viaduct
• Les Alpiers
> Source of the Lot
• Le Bleymard
> The Lot River
> The Saint-Jean Chapel
> The slate roofs of Le Tournel
> The surprising Mont-Lozère
> The Lot River
A magnificent stage between South and North, culminating in the summit of Mont-Lozère and its breathtaking 360° landscape. The descent to Pont-de-Montvert is magnificent, between moors and granite boulders. You'll enter the Camisard region and enjoy the flowing waters of the Tarn at Pont-de-Montvert.
Discover:
• Finiels
> The granite boulders
> The view of the Cévennes
> The burons and the general architecture of the village
• Pont-de-Montvert
> The upper Tarn Gorges
> The Maison du Mont-Lozère
From the Tarn to the Col du Sapet
Today, the trail invites you to gain a little more altitude! Although the cool waters of the Tarn at Pont-de-Montvert might tempt you to linger a little longer…
It’s time to pick up your backpack and climb above the village. As you gain height, the landscape opens up to reveal sweeping views across the Cévennes valleys. Every turn offers another breathtaking panorama — a wonderful reward for the effort of the climb.
Your route then leads you to the Col du Sapet, before beginning the descent towards Bédouès-Cocurès.
At the end of the stage, you’ll once again meet the river and its refreshing waters: a peaceful arrival beside the Tarn, the perfect way to unwind after a rewarding day on the trail.
A wonderfully varied stage, combining the wild highlands of the Cévennes with the gentle beauty of its valleys.
Discover:
• The Col du Sapet
> The incredible view
• Bédouès
> The collegiate church
> The banks of the Tarn
A Day Along the Water
Today, water is your constant companion! This shorter, gentler stage is the perfect opportunity to slow down, take in the scenery and discover Florac-Trois-Rivières, a true crossroads of the Cévennes waterways.
When you arrive in Florac, take the time to wander through its charming streets, discover its heritage and soak up the warm, welcoming atmosphere of this delightful town.
Then it’s back onto the trail. You’ll cross the Tarnon before continuing alongside the Mimente River. Its gentle murmur accompanies you along the path, while its beautiful crystal-clear pools invite you to stop for a break — and perhaps even cool your feet!
Little by little, following the rhythm of the river, you’ll make your way to Saint-Julien-d’Arpaon (or Cassagnas), bringing this stage to a gentle close… or almost, because the Cévennes always like to keep a few surprises up their sleeve!
A refreshing day shaped by water, nature and the simple pleasure of taking your time.
Discover:
• Florac
> Crossroads of the waters of the Tarn, Tarnon, Mimente, and Pêcher rivers
> The Cévennes Park House located in the castle
> The narrow streets
• Saint-Julien d'Arpaon
> The magnificent and cool Mimente Valley
> The remains of the 13th-century castle
> The chestnut grove
You'll hike through an impressive forest that will take you to the Plan de Fontmort before descending along a forest path. Your walk will be enhanced here and there by magnificent viewpoints of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Gallo-Roman remains will also be scattered along the way... The vegetation and the scents will change...
Discover:
• Between Cassagnas and Saint-Germain de Calberte
> The ruins of the Gallo-Roman villa
> The panoramic view
• Saint-Germain la Calberte
> The chestnuts
> The 11th-century castle
> The church of Saint-Germain
From the Col de Saint-Pierre to Saint-Jean-du-Gard
Your final major climb before the finish line takes you to the magnificent Col de Saint-Pierre, a natural viewpoint overlooking the Gardon valleys.
At the summit, take a moment to savour one last time the sweeping Cévennes panoramas stretching as far as the eye can see. Then the scenery begins to change as you cross into the Gard department, where the landscapes become softer and the scents take on distinctly southern notes.
From here, it’s time to let the trail lead you gently downhill towards Saint-Jean-du-Gard. As the mountains gradually give way to the warmth of the Cévennes foothills, you’ll arrive in this charming little town — the perfect place to bring your Stevenson Trail adventure to a memorable close.
A final stage between mountain landscapes and southern charm — the perfect way to end your journey through the Cévennes.
Discover:
• Saint-Etienne-Vallée-Française
> Cambiaire Castle
• Saint-Jean-du-Gard
> The Old Bridge
> The Clock Tower
> Saint-Jean Castle
> The Maison Rouge Filature and its Horseshoe Staircase
> The Stevenson Fountain
> The Steam Train
Returning to Chasseradès… or extending your adventure to Alès
When you arrive in Saint-Jean-du-Gard, you have two options for bringing your adventure to a close.
🚐 8-day trip — Return to Chasseradès by shuttle
A shuttle will pick you up in Saint-Jean-du-Gard at either 8:15 am or 1:15 pm, with your luggage taken care of, of course.
8:15 am departure → arrival in Chasseradès around 10:50 am
1:15 pm departure → arrival in Chasseradès around 3:50 pm
You’ll then have plenty of time to retrieve your vehicle in Chasseradès and continue your journey home.
🥾 9-day trip — Extend your adventure to Alès
For experienced hikers who want to go one step further, you can add one final, spectacular stage to Alès:
23.5 km · 870 m ascent · approximately 8h40 of walking
A more challenging day, but a fantastic way to round off your journey through the Cévennes. One last dose of hiking for those who like to finish their adventure with a challenge!
In the evening, you’ll stay overnight in Alès. The following morning, a shuttle will take you back to Chasseradès at 7:30 am, with an expected arrival around 10:50 am, depending on traffic conditions.
Alternatively, you can choose to take the train from Alès, if that better suits your onward journey.
The choice is yours: finish your adventure gently in Saint-Jean-du-Gard, or keep going a little further and make it all the way to Alès!
This price includes :
- Accommodation in a twin, double, triple, multiple, or single room (with additional charge), depending on the booking configuration, with half-board
- Tourist taxes.
- Luggage transport (maximum 13 kg/person – max dimension : L + W + H : 120cm).
- Your digital travel and guidebook.
- The topo guide (1 copy per 3 travelers).
- Journey back to Chasseradès by minibus.
- Telephone assistance.
Extras :
- Comprehensive cancellation and luggage insurance
- Single room
- No return transfer from Saint-Jean-du-Gard
- Without luggage transfer
- Travel booklet and additional guidebook
This price does not include:
- Transport and transfers to the starting point
- Meals other than those specified in the selected package
- Parking
- Drinks
- Personal expenses
- Entrance fees and any optional visits or activities
- GPX tracks (we do not provide GPX tracks – route guidance is provided via an app)
- Comprehensive cancellation and luggage insurance, additional nights
- Booking fees
- More generally, anything not specifically mentioned under “What’s included”
Optional services from L’autre Chemin:
- Hike without luggage transfer: if you prefer to carry your own backpack, you can select this option when booking and benefit from a discount on your trip.
- No return transfer to Chasseradès: you can select this option when booking and benefit from a discount on your trip.
- The stage passport: a fun keepsake to have stamped at each stage of your journey. Available as an optional extra, this little passport makes for a lovely souvenir of your Stevenson Trail adventure. Price: €7 per passport when booking your trip.
9-day trip to Alès
Important information
This final stage is approximately 24 km long, with a minimum walking time of 8h40 and 870 m of ascent. It is a demanding stage, with a few more technical sections than those encountered previously, particularly along the ridges. This stage is suitable for experienced hikers, as some sections require a little scrambling over rocky terrain.
This stage should be avoided in bad weather (thunderstorms, heavy rain, etc.) and can also be particularly strenuous in very hot weather. In these conditions, we recommend skipping this stage and taking a bus transfer to Alès instead. Timetables are available on liO Occitanie.
Would you like to extend your stay in Saint-Jean-du-Gard?
Your trip already includes your final night in Saint-Jean-du-Gard. If you would like to enjoy the South a little longer and take the time to discover the town and its surroundings, you can add an extra night in Saint-Jean-du-Gard.
This additional night includes accommodation and breakfast, giving you the freedom to choose your own restaurant for dinner and enjoy a relaxed final evening in the Cévennes.
L’Autre Chemin has developed numerous partnerships with guesthouses and small traditional hotels to offer you comfort and authenticity, ensuring that each stage is an opportunity to discover the architecture, the art of living, and the gastronomy, as well as a moment of exchange and encounters. Note: The stages along the trail are determined by the walking pace that we feel is most appropriate. We strive to offer you stages that offer comfort, discovery, and authenticity in hotels, guesthouses, cottages, or unusual accommodations. However, the Stevenson Trail offers a range of amenities. Generally, bathrooms are integrated into the rooms, but they may be located on the landing or shared in some accommodations.
Half Board
When you choose a half-board trip, which generally includes a set-menu dinner and breakfast, we invite you to let us know about any food allergies or special dietary requirements you may have. Please note that breakfast may be either continental or international, depending on the accommodation.
The establishments should normally be able to accommodate the needs of travellers:
- with confirmed food allergies (allergies involving the immune system and potentially causing severe reactions such as anaphylactic shock), such as allergies to honey, nuts, shellfish, etc.
- vegetarians (Due to the complexity and significant constraints this places on accommodation providers, we are unfortunately unable to organise trips catering for a vegan diet.)
- following a diet for religious reasons
For food intolerances (digestive difficulties in processing certain foods, with symptoms that are purely digestive, such as lactose or gluten intolerance) and other dietary restrictions, we will inform the accommodation providers in advance. However, some establishments may find it difficult to accommodate all dietary requirements, which are becoming increasingly common. We therefore thank you in advance for adapting your food consumption to the meals provided during your stay and, if necessary, bringing any additional foods or supplements you may require, such as gluten-free bread.
Please note: Additional charges may apply for special diets, depending on the policies of individual accommodation providers.
By Train
Chasseradès has a train station, often accessible by bus. Information at www.oui.sncf – Important: Please make sure to take a train arriving in Chasseradès before 7 p.m., as check-ins at the accommodations are not open after this time.
By Car
Parking is available near the train station or, depending on availability, in the village. Parking is free and unattended.
- Paris: 610 km
- Lyon: 245 km
- Marseille: 240 km
- Toulouse: 310 km
- Montpellier: 160 km
Whether you’re booking your stay or have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
€1340 / pers.
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