- L’Autre Chemin
- Séjours
- Dialogue with sir Stevenson, bike tour on the Stevenson trail
€1030 / pers.
Dialogue with Stevenson – The Stevenson Trail GR70 by Electric Bike
In Stevenson’s footsteps, between volcanoes, wide-open spaces and the Cévennes valleys
What if you discovered the Stevenson Trail by bike?
From Le Puy-en-Velay to Saint-Jean-du-Gard, set off on a two-wheeled adventure in the footsteps of Robert Louis Stevenson and his faithful donkey, Modestine. By hybrid bike, electric bike or gravel bike, this itinerary offers a cycling interpretation of the legendary GR70, taking you deep into the wild landscapes of the Massif Central and the Cévennes.
There is no question of following the trail to the letter: by bike, the route adapts to the terrain, making the most of quiet country roads and suitable trails. It is a free interpretation of Stevenson’s journey, designed for those who love cycling, exploring and taking the time to enjoy the journey.
This trip could just as well be called “The Cévennes Hills”… Stevenson loved wide-open spaces, ridges and valleys, and you will soon understand why!
A cycling adventure in the heart of the Cévennes
From the high plateaus of Velay to the sun-drenched valleys of the Cévennes, you will experience an incredible variety of landscapes.
Your route takes you across the volcanic plateaus of Haute-Loire, the wild heathlands of Gévaudan, the deep forests of Margeride, and then through the rugged landscapes and valleys of Lozère and Gard.
Along the way, you will discover unspoilt nature, characterful villages and a rich historical heritage. You will also encounter some of the great rivers of southern France: the Loire, Allier, Lot, Tarn and Gardon.
Each day brings new discoveries, breathtaking views and quiet country roads where you can truly enjoy that wonderful feeling of being “alone in the world.”
The GR70 by bike: a different way to travel
In 1878, Robert Louis Stevenson travelled through these lands on foot, accompanied by Modestine. Today, we invite you to discover this legendary route for yourself… but by bike!
The itinerary follows much of the GR70, while taking alternative routes suited to cycling.
You will travel from the volcanic landscapes of Velay to the wide-open spaces of Gévaudan, from the forests of Margeride to the valleys of the Cévennes. Along the way, the region’s heritage tells its own story, with highlights including Notre-Dame des Neiges Abbey and the ruins of Luc Castle.
A journey where every turn of the pedals brings you a little closer to the spirit of the famous Scottish traveller and writer.
Good to know before you set off
Cycling the Stevenson Trail is a genuine long-distance adventure, requiring a good level of independence and some cycling experience.
- Good bike-handling skills are essential, particularly on trails and more technical sections.
- You should be comfortable carrying out basic repairs, such as changing or repairing an inner tube or putting a derailed chain back on, for example.
- The route includes significant elevation gain, with long climbs as well as some rewarding descents. A steady level of effort is required… but the scenery is more than worth it!
- Our electric bikes provide pedal assistance, but they do not replace pedalling. You therefore need to be able to pedal steadily and manage your effort in order to make the most of the battery range.
An easy start from Le Puy-en-Velay
L’Autre Chemin is located in Le Puy-en-Velay, at 5 rue Grangevieille.
Being based at the starting point of the route means that we can welcome you personally, advise you before your departure and, above all, share our in-depth knowledge of the trail and the Stevenson Trail.
To help you prepare for your trip, check out our practical advice.
What we love: The real adventure. Breathtaking landscapes, wild trails, peaceful country roads and that wonderful feeling of being completely on your own in the heart of the Cévennes.
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The benefits of your stay:
- Travel independently and choose your departure date
- Accommodation in gîtes, guesthouses or hotels
- Half-board accommodation included
- Easy navigation with our digital “Travel Journal & Navigation” app, which you can download onto your smartphone
- Your luggage is transported to each stage (maximum 1 bag per person, up to 13 kg – maximum dimensions: length + width + height = 120 cm)
- Your return journey, as well as the return of your bikes to Le Puy-en-Velay, is included in the trip
- Optional: bike rental from our agency, including our “Esprit Serein” peace-of-mind guarantee
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- For more information, please see: Insurance section
- Our travel bikes for this stay
Your itinerary:
- Elevation gain 5,305 m – Country roads and trails Self-guided cycling tour (you choose your departure point and go solo, with family, or with friends)
- Fitness route
- Family: Children aged 14 and over (depending on cycling ability) Accommodation: in a private room (B&B, cottage, hotel, or alternative accommodation)
- What’s the climate like? See our Frequently Asked Questions
- Programm day / day
- What's in your trip
- Extras
- Accommodation
- Access to Le Puy and car parking
- Need help ?
Note: The steps are given for information purposes only and may be modified depending on host availability.
A first taste of Le Puy-en-Velay
The perfect opportunity to discover this historic town before hitting the road!
Take the time to wander through the Upper Town of Le Puy-en-Velay—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and let yourself be charmed by its hidden alleyways, staircases, and beautiful residences.
As you turn a corner in the narrow streets, you will discover the iconic Cathedral of Notre-Dame du Puy—a true gem of the city—before continuing your exploration and soaking up the unique atmosphere of this town steeped in history.
A wonderful introduction before setting off in the footsteps of Stevenson!
Discover:
> The Cathedral and its Cloister
> The statue of Notre-Dame de France
> The rock and the Saint-Michel Chapel
> The narrow streets of the upper town
> The Hôtel-Dieu and its exhibitions
Amidst forests, volcanoes, and the Loire Gorges
What a joy to ride an e-bike through the forests before finding the quiet backroads of the Haute-Loire!
The trip is filled with the scent of broom and the true spirit of the Haute-Loire. Mile by mile, the landscapes reveal their treasures: basalt columns, deep forests, ancient volcanoes, and the wild gorges of the Loire.
You follow the Stevenson Trail (GR70) towards Le Monastier-sur-Gazeille, a village made famous by the Scottish writer and his donkey, Modestine. Then, you glide down towards the Loire Gorges to reach Goudet, a small village nestled by the river.
From Goudet, you make a gradual ascent to the Devès volcanic plateau, set in a magnificent landscape where nature is on full display.
Forests, backroads, volcanoes, and gorges: discover the Haute-Loire at your own pace on your bike—a journey blending physical effort, freedom, and wonder.
Discover:
• Brives-Charensac
> The bridges spanning the Loire
The 13th-century Chartreuse Bridge, the 12th-century Old Bridge in the center of Brives-Charensac, of which only two arches remain, and the Gallard Bridge, used by cars.
• Le Monastier-sur-Gazeille
> The Abbey of Saint Chaffre, which combines Romanesque and Gothic styles.
> The Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste
> The circular fountains and wash houses
> Museum of Popular Beliefs
> School Museum
> The European Cultural Space (exhibitions)
> The Recoumène Viaduct
• Saint-Martin de Fugères
> The church
• Goudet
> A stroll through the village center and the discovery of the polychrome roofs
> A walk along the path that runs along the Loire and leads you to wild gorges
> Beaufort Castle
From Landos to the mysterious Mercoire Forest
The Stevenson Trail (GR70) takes you through the wild landscapes of the Haute-Loire. You discover Landos before reaching Pradelles—ranked among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France"—where you can take the time to stroll through the narrow streets and soak up its authentic charm.
You then cycle out of the Haute-Loire and into Langogne, the gateway to the Lozère region. A stop by Lake Naussac is a must, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and the peaceful atmosphere.
The route then continues toward the mysterious Mercoire Forest. You traverse this vast, wild woodland—steeped in legend and history—amidst an atmosphere that feels almost timeless.
A stage defined by characterful villages, wide-open spaces, and mysterious forests—a journey by bike in its truest sense.
Discover:
• Le Bouchet-Saint-Nicolas
> The Bouchet Volcanic Lake
• Landos
> The washhouse and its fountain
> St. Félix Church
> The Ribains Marshes
• Arquejols
> Viaduct
> Jagonas Castle
• Pradelles
> Village Tour
> Vélorail
> Neo-Gothic Church
> Aquatic Center
> View of Gévaudan
• Langogne
> Naussac Lake – Watersports and Swimming
> The Calquières Spinning Mill
> Museum of Sacred Art
• Saint-Flour-de-Mercoire
> The Dense Forest
> The Little Church
In the Heart of Gévaudan, Between Wild Valleys and Wide-Open Spaces
Today, you get right into the heart of the adventure! The climbs become more demanding, but the effort is richly rewarded by the wild and spectacular landscapes of Gévaudan.
You cycle through unspoilt countryside, discovering the first meanders of the Allier River while enjoying breathtaking views. Along the way, you catch sight of Luc Castle, perched high above the valley like a sentinel, before continuing through landscapes where nature still seems to reign supreme.
Then it is time to gain altitude once again. You climb towards Notre-Dame des Neiges Abbey, one of the highlights of the Stevenson Trail – GR70, before continuing your ascent into the wild landscapes of the Gardille Mountains.
A more challenging stage, but above all a true immersion in Gévaudan, between deep forests, wild valleys and mountains.
Discover:
• Cheylard-l'Evèque
> Notre Dame de toutes les graces on the heights
• Luc
> The remains of the medieval castle
> The nascent Allier
• La Bastide-Puylaurent
> Notre-Dame des Neiges Abbey
• Chasseradès
> Saint-Blaise Church
Conquering Mont Lozère
A challenging day lies ahead, but the rewards are extraordinary! As you ride, the landscapes open up onto the vast spaces of the Cévennes, with wonderful encounters with the Lot and Tarn rivers along the way.
You climb through the Goulet Forest, surrounded by wild and unspoilt scenery, before tackling the slopes of Mont Lozère.
Little by little, the landscape changes and the views become truly spectacular. The mountain reveals its vast open spaces, scattered with huge granite boulders, reminders of the power and geological history of these mountains.
Then, after the effort comes the reward: a beautiful descent towards Pont-de-Montvert, an iconic village along the Stevenson Trail, nestled on the banks of the Tarn River.
A magnificent mountain stage, intense and wild, where every turn of the pedals brings you a little closer to the heart of the Cévennes.
Discover:
• Mirandol
> The railway viaduct
• Le Bleymard
> The Lot River
> The Saint-Jean Chapel
> The slate roofs of Tournel
> The surprising Mont-Lozère
> The Lot River
• Finiels
> The granite boulders
> The view of the Cévennes
> The burons and the general architecture of the village
• Pont de Montvert
> The high Tarn Gorges
> The Maison du Mont-Lozère
> The road leading up to L'Hermet
From Mont Lozère to Florac, in the Heart of the Cévennes
From Pont-de-Montvert, you climb gently along a quiet country road, gradually revealing spectacular views over a wild and unspoilt landscape.
You reach the Col du Sapet and its famous standing stone before rejoining the Stevenson Trail – GR70. The route then takes you on a magnificent descent through the forest, where the shade of the trees and the peaceful surroundings accompany you all the way to Bédouès.
You then continue towards Florac, the capital of the Cévennes and a true “town of water and stone”, beautifully nestled at the confluence of the Tarnon, Mimente and Tarn rivers.
A wonderfully varied stage, combining high-altitude panoramas, deep forests and Cévennes valleys, gradually leading you into the heart of this remarkable region.
Discover:
• The Col du Sapet
> The incredible view
• Bédouès
> The collegiate church
• Florac
> Crossroads of the waters of the Tarn, Tarnon, Mimente, and Pêcher rivers
> The Cévennes Park House located in the castle
> The narrow streets
From the Mimente Valley to the Gateway of the Gard
You begin this final day gently, following the Cévennes greenway along the Mimente River, which accompanies you to Saint-Julien-d’Arpaon and then Cassagnas.
Just as in Stevenson’s time, the route gradually climbs through a magnificent Cévennes forest. You reach the ridges and, little by little, the landscape begins to change. You enter a more Mediterranean world, where the scents of the southern vegetation announce your arrival in the Gard department.
The scenery opens up, the vegetation becomes more distinctly Mediterranean, and the fragrances of the South accompany you through your final kilometres. The road naturally leads you towards Saint-Jean-du-Gard, the finishing point of your adventure in Stevenson’s footsteps.
After crossing plateaus, forests and mountains, you finally reach the southern Cévennes. A charming final stage to bring this wonderful cycling adventure to a close.
Places to discover:
• Saint-Julien d'Arpaon
> The magnificent and cool Mimente Valley
• Between Cassagnas and Saint-Germain-la-Calberte
> The ruins of the Gallo-Roman villa
> The panoramic view
• Saint-Germain-la-Calberte
> The Chestnut Trees
> The 11th-century castle
> The Saint-Germain church
> The statue of the Cévennes Man
• Saint-Etienne Vallée Française
> The village
> The Château de Cambiaire overlooking the village
• Saint-Jean-du-Gard
> The Old Bridge
> The Clock Tower
> The Château Saint-Jean
> The Maison Rouge spinning mill and its Horseshoe staircase
> The Stevenson fountain
> The steam train
The Return to Le Puy-en-Velay
At the end of your adventure, a regular shuttle service picks you up in Saint-Jean-du-Gard, on Place Carnot in the heart of the village.
Your bikes and luggage travel with you, making your journey back to Le Puy-en-Velay as easy and comfortable as possible.
Depending on your preference and availability, two departure times are offered: 8:15 am or 1:30 pm, arriving in Le Puy-en-Velay at 12:30 pm or 5:30 pm respectively.
All that remains is to sit back, enjoy the journey and watch the Cévennes landscapes go by, with the satisfaction of having completed a wonderful cycling adventure in Stevenson’s footsteps.
This price includes:
- Accommodation in a double, twin, triple, or multiple-occupancy room
- Half-board basis
- Tourist taxes,
- Luggage transfer at the stopover (one bag, max. 13kg/person – Dimensions max : W +L + H : 120cm),
- Return (passenger & bike) to Puy-en-Velay,
- Access to the guide app & travel diary,
- The route map (one copy per group of travelers),
- Telephone assistance.
Extras:
- Provision of an electric bike or a non-electric bike, two panniers, a helmet, and a light repair kit
- Comprehensive cancellation insurance
- A stage log
- Single supplement
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Additional night in Saint-Jean-du-Gard, bed and breakfast.
This price does not include:
- Transportation and transfers to the starting point
- Meals other than those included in the selected package
- Parking
- Bike rental
- GPX tracks (we do not provide GPX tracks for our routes – guidance via the app) Drinks, spending money, any visits or activities
- Cancellation insurance Administration
Administration fees
- €12/person if ordered online
- €15/person via quote
Optionally, L’autre Chemin offers:
If you would like to rent a bike,
Please contact us to check availability.
- E-bike rental with 2 panniers + the guarantee “Sereine Mind”: +€245/bike
- Standard bike rental with 2 panniers + the guarantee “Sereine Mind”: +€150/bike
If you plan to travel with your bike, please ensure certain points: If it is an electric-assisted bike, the battery must have a minimum power of 400 or even 500 watts. Please note: the battery must be removable; if not, please contact us to check availability. It is imperative that your bike is in perfect working order before departure. Remember to have it serviced. Please bring a suitable repair kit and a smartphone mount for the handlebars. Our routes combine small roads and trails. Your bike must be a hybrid, mountain bike, or gravel bike with suitable tires. Therefore, city or road bikes are not permitted. Our trips are more or less sporty, and a basket on the handlebars is prohibited, as are large city bags. You’ll be using trails, and this type of equipment risks destabilizing the bike’s balance and making it difficult to transfer bikes (similarly, front mudguards make it difficult to load bikes onto trailers, so avoid them).
Any questions? Call us.
The Stage Book
A veritable passport to be stamped at each stage of your journey. We offer an optional stage book, which will be a nice souvenir of the Stevenson Trail. Price: €7 / stage book when booking your stay – subject to availability
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 connection. Please 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
The town of Le Puy-en-Velay has a train station that takes you right to the city center, close to your first hotel and all the sights and shops. In short, it’s very pleasant to take the train from home to begin your hike in Le Puy. Psst, even if the journey may seem long, when you arrive via Saint-Etienne, the tracks run alongside the wild Loire Valley, a truly beautiful sight!
By car
Le Puy is accessible by road, notably via two main roads: the RN88 from Saint-Etienne/Lyon or Aubenas/Mende, or via the RN102 (Clermont-Ferrand). There are suitable parking lots on site, but we’ll explain everything in your travel guide!
- Paris: 515km
- Lyon: 134km
- Marseille: 300km
- Toulouse: 350km
- Montpellier: 250km
Where to park in Le Puy?
- Breuil underground car park – Place du Breuil – Closed Sundays and public holidays – 7 days: €60 & 14 days: €100/14 days – Reservations: +33 4 71 02 03 54
- Bertrand de Doue car park: Parking without video
- Estrouilhas car park: Parking without video
- Quincieu park and ride: Parking without video
- Montredon park and ride: Parking without video
- Dunant car park
Above-ground car parks in Le Puy – Rates: €10/week and €20/month.
Subscriptions must be reserved and paid in advance at the parking lot. Commercial Mobilité-en-Velay Tel. 04 71 02 60 11 (open Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.) – Height limit 2.20 m & length 5.50 m maximum. These car parks are served by a free shuttle or the urban transport network.
- Parking de la Gare: Video-monitored parking – €6 / 24 hours
- Parking des Carmes: Video-monitored parking – €40 / week – Reservations: 07 68 10 76 81
- La Malle Postale – Parking 7km from Le Puy – Drop-off and pick-up guaranteed – 7 days / 7– 7 days: €30 & 15 days: €50 – Reservation: +33 4 71 04 21 79
- Saint-Jacques Parking (Center served by bus) – 13 bis de Roderie – Aiguilhe – Video surveillance – Reservation: +33 4 44 43 97 43 – 7 days: €35
Prices given for information purposes only and subject to change without notice
Whether you’d like to book your stay on the Stevenson Trail or have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
with L'Autre Chemin
From 1525€ / pers.
The Stevenson trail GR70 – Nature trek through the Cévennes
Fully organized hiking trip on the Stevenson Trail (GR70) from Puy-en-Velay to Saint-Jean du Gard or Alès, depending on your choice. A walking adventure in the heart of the Cévennes, following in the footsteps of Robert Louis Stevenson.
From €780 / pers
Introduction to the Stevenson trail from Le Puy to Chasseradès
From Le Puy-en-Velay to Chasseradès, discover the first stages of the Stevenson Trail – GR70
€915 / pers.
Conclusion of the Stevenson trail from Chasseradès to Saint-Jean du Gard
The South Stevenson Trail, hike in the Cévennes from Chasseradès to St-Jean du Gard or to Alès depending on your choice