- L’Autre Chemin
- Séjours
- Travel with a bike in the Cévennes
€1020 / pers
Travel with a bike in the Cévennes
Do you dream of the Stevenson Trail, but you prefer riding on small roads with reasonable elevation gain rather than trails? We’ve specially designed this trip for you. Because cycling in the Cévennes is a wonderful experience, both for the landscapes and the scents encountered, we wanted to offer an electric bike trip based on the Stevenson Trail, but making it more accessible for cycle tourists. The route follows very passable trails that don’t require precise riding and picturesque little roads. Of course, we sometimes stray from the route, but the itinerant adventure remains intact; the stages are almost the same as for the Dialogue with Stevenson trip. A route that offers the discovery of breathtaking landscapes in total immersion in the nature of Haute-Loire, Lozère, and Gard, where you will cross the Loire, Allier, Lot, Tarn, and Gardon rivers…
Please note: Traveling with a bike in the Cévennes is a long-distance journey that requires a good degree of self-management:
- knowing how to change an inner tube, reattach a derailed chain, and, of course, knowing how to ride a bike!
- We’ve smoothed out the elevation changes to keep the adventure accessible, but there are still some great climbs (Monte de Goudet, Mont-Lozère, etc.).
- Your travel diary will guide you mainly on country roads and easily accessible trails.
Bonus: The L’Autre Chemin agency is located in Le Puy-en-Velay – 5 rue Grangevieille. This allows us to easily meet you upon your departure and provides us with in-depth knowledge of the trail. To prepare your stay, check out our tips!
What we love: The atmosphere along the trail, meeting hikers, and some intense moments, especially crossing the Col de Finiels.
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The benefits of your bike tour:
- You travel independently
- Accommodation in hotels, guesthouses
- Half-board basis
- Easy to find your way with the new digital “travel diary & guidance” application
- Your luggage is delivered at each stop (1 bag maxi 13kg / pers – Dimensions max : L + W + H : 120cm)
- Bike collection and return is organized and included in the stay for this trip,
- With option : Bikes provided by the agency include the guarantee “Sereine Mind” –
- More information can be found in the Insurance section
- Discover our travel bikes for this trip
Your itinerary:
- Elevation gain 4,735 m – Country roads and trails
- Self-guided cycling tour (you choose your departure point and set off solo, with family, or with friends)
- Moderate route using country roads and accessible trails
- Family: Children aged 13 and over (depending on ability – variations possible)
- Accommodation: in a private room (B&B, cottage, hotel, or alternative accommodation)
- What’s the climate like? See our Frequently Asked Questions
Note: The steps are given for information purposes only and may be modified depending on host availability.
Welcome to Le Puy-en-Velay!
Welcome to Le Puy-en-Velay, the starting point for your adventure in Stevenson’s footsteps! Before setting off, take the time to discover this characterful town steeped in history.
Wander through the narrow streets of the upper town, explore its hidden lanes and stairways, and let yourself be surprised by its beautiful historic houses and hidden treasures revealed around every corner.
A first taste of the history and unique atmosphere of Le Puy-en-Velay, before beginning your cycling adventure through the Cévennes.
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
From Le Puy-en-Velay to the Gorges of the Loire
Your adventure begins in Le Puy-en-Velay, which you leave at a leisurely pace by following the Velay greenway. You then take a quiet country road to reach Le Monastier-sur-Gazeille, an iconic village in Stevenson’s journey with his faithful companion, Modestine.
The route then gently continues towards the Gorges of the Loire. Little by little, you immerse yourself in a wilder landscape before reaching Goudet, a charming little village nestled on the banks of the Loire.
A delightful first stage, perfect for enjoying the peaceful scenery and ending the day with a relaxing evening by the river.
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.
• Coubon
> St. Georges Church
> Poinsac Castle
> Volhac Fortified House
• Le Monastier-sur-Gazeille
> Saint Chaffre Abbey, which combines Romanesque and Gothic architecture. > Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church
> Circular fountains and wash houses
> Museum of Popular Beliefs
> School Museum
> European Cultural Space (exhibitions)
> Recoumène Viaduct
• Saint-Martin de Fugères
> The church
• Goudet
> Stroll through the heart of the village center and discover the polychrome roofs
> Walk along the path that runs along the Loire and leads you to wild gorges
> Beaufort Castle
The day begins with a good climb to leave the Gorges of the Loire behind and gradually make your way up onto the Devès plateau. The effort is quickly rewarded as vast volcanic landscapes open up before you.
You continue towards Le Bouchet-Saint-Nicolas, before leaving the trail to the walkers and returning to the pleasure of cycling along a beautiful quiet country road towards Pradelles, one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France.
You then gradually leave the landscapes of Haute-Loire behind and cross into Lozère, reaching Langogne, the gateway to Gévaudan. Once there, take the time to enjoy Lake Naussac, its peaceful waters and magnificent surroundings.
A stage combining volcanic landscapes, picturesque country roads and wide-open spaces, as you gradually leave Haute-Loire behind and enter the wild and captivating world of Lozère.
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
> Neo-Gothic Church
> The view of Gévaudan
• Langogne
> Naussac Lake – Watersports and swimming
> The Calquières Spinning Mill
> Museum of Sacred Art
From Langogne to Chasseradès, Between Quiet Country Roads and the Stevenson Trail
You zigzag between quiet country roads and sections of the Stevenson Trail, travelling through wild and unspoilt landscapes. The route gradually leads you to Luc, dominated by the impressive ruins of its medieval castle and surrounded by a remarkable natural setting.
From Laveyrune, you have two options. You can choose to follow in the walkers’ footsteps and climb towards Notre-Dame des Neiges along a trail that can be rocky in places, but presents no major technical difficulty. It is a wonderful way to reconnect with the spirit of the trail and fully immerse yourself in the wild atmosphere of the area.
For a more relaxed option, you can take the road alternative, which leads you directly to La Bastide-Puylaurent.
You then continue through the landscapes of Haut-Gévaudan towards the small village of Chasseradès, a charming stop in the heart of the mountains.
A beautiful day where you can choose your own route, between peaceful country roads, wild trails and Stevenson’s footsteps, with the magnificent landscapes of Gévaudan as your backdrop.
Discover:
• Luc
> The remains of the medieval castle
> The nascent Allier
• Notre-Dame des Neiges Abbey
• Chasseradès
> Saint-Blaise Church
Conquering Mont Lozère, Between Granite and Panoramic Cévennes Views
Mont Lozère awaits you for one of the most iconic sections of your adventure, with spectacular views over the Cévennes and memorable encounters with the Lot and Tarn rivers.
You begin by climbing through the Goulet Forest, before tackling the slopes of Mont Lozère. Little by little, the vegetation gives way to vast open landscapes. The mountain reveals breathtaking panoramas, scattered with huge granite boulders, silent witnesses to the power and geological history of these mountains.
After the climb comes the reward: you begin your descent towards Pont-de-Montvert, an iconic village along the Stevenson Trail, where you reconnect with the Tarn River in the heart of a wild and unspoilt landscape.
An unforgettable mountain stage, combining forests, granite and spectacular panoramas, taking you deep into the heart of the Cévennes.
Discover:
• Mirandol
> The railway viaduct - Photo Schappelr
• Le Bleymard
> The Lot
> The Saint-Jean chapel
> The slate roofs of Tournel
> The surprising Mont-Lozère
> The Lot
• Finiels
> The granite boulders
> The view of the Cévennes
> The burons and the general architecture of the village
• Pont de Montvert
> The high Gorges of the Tarn
> The Maison du Mont-Lozère
> The road leading up to L'Hermet
From Pont-de-Montvert to the Mimente Valley, Between Waterfalls and Crystal-Clear Waters
You leave Pont-de-Montvert along a quiet country road that gradually climbs towards the Runes Waterfall, nestled in the heart of a wild and unspoilt landscape. A beautiful mountain interlude before rejoining the waters of the Tarn River and continuing through the stunning landscapes of the Cévennes.
The route then takes you to Bédouès, where you discover its remarkable Collegiate Church, a true gem of Lozère’s heritage.
Further on, take the time to stop in Florac, the famous “crossroads of waters”, located at the confluence of the Tarnon, Mimente and Tarn rivers. It is the perfect place to wander through the narrow streets and enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere of this charming Cévennes town.
You then get back on your bike and follow the Cévennes greenway along the Mimente. As you ride, the river reveals beautiful pools of cool, crystal-clear water, almost irresistible for a refreshing stop with your feet in the water.
A refreshing and enchanting stage, combining waterfalls, rivers, heritage and beautiful Cévennes landscapes, with water as the guiding thread of your day.
Discover:
• A walk alongside the waters of the Tarn
• Bédouès
> The Collegiate Church
• Florac
> Crossroads of the waters of the Tarn, Tarnon, Mimente, and Pêcher
> The Cévennes Park House located in the castle
> The small streets
• Saint-Julien d'Arpaon
> The magnificent and cool Mimente Valley
> The remains of the 13th-century castle
> The chestnut grove
From the Cévennes Ridges to Saint-Jean-du-Gard, at the Gateway to the Gard
Your route gradually climbs through a magnificent Cévennes forest towards the ridges. Little by little, the landscape begins to change as you enter a more distinctly southern world. The vegetation transforms, the scents become more Mediterranean, and the fragrances of the South announce your arrival in the Gard.
You then continue towards Saint-Germain-de-Calberte, before discovering the charming village of Saint-Étienne-Vallée-Française, nestled in the heart of the Cévennes landscape.
The route continues down through the valley, accompanied by the waters of the Gardon de Mialet, which naturally guides you towards Saint-Jean-du-Gard, the final destination of your adventure.
A final stage infused with the scents and colours of the South, between forests, ridges, charming Cévennes villages and rivers, gently leading you to Saint-Jean-du-Gard and bringing this wonderful cycling adventure to a close.
Discover:
• Saint-Etienne Vallée Française
> The village
> Cambiaire Castle, which overlooks the village
• Saint-Jean-du-Gard
> The Old Bridge
> The Clock Tower
> Saint-Jean Castle
> 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 from Place Carnot, in the heart of Saint-Jean-du-Gard. Your bikes and luggage travel with you, making for a comfortable and hassle-free journey back to Le Puy-en-Velay.
Depending on your preference and availability, two departure times are offered: 8:15 am or 1:15 pm, with arrival in Le Puy-en-Velay at 12:30 pm or 5:30 pm respectively.
Sit back, enjoy the journey and let the Cévennes landscapes pass by as you savour the memories of your cycling adventure in Stevenson’s footsteps.
This price includes:
- Accommodation in a double, twin, triple, or multiple-occupancy room
- Half-board
- Tourist taxes,
- Luggage transfer at the stopover (one bag, max. 13kg/person – Dimensions max : L + W 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
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,
- E-bike rental with 2 panniers + the guarantee “Sereine Mind”: +€245/bike
- Standard bike rental with 2 panniers + the guarantee “Sereine Mind”: +€170/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 5
Le Puy above-ground car parks – Rates: €10/week and €20/month. Subscriptions must be reserved and paid in advance at the Mobilité-en-Velay commercial center. Tel. +33 4 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.
- Bertrand de Doue Parking: Parking without video
- Estrouilhas Parking: Parking without video
- Quincieu Park and Ride Parking: Parking without video
- Montredon Park and Ride Parking: Parking without video (free bus service to the city center)
- Dunant Parking (free bus service to the city center)
- Train Station Parking: Video-monitored parking – €6 / 24 hours
- Carmes Parking: Video-monitored parking – €40 / week – Reservation: +33 7 68 10 76 81
- Foch Parking – 6 avenue du Maréchal Foch – Video surveillance – 7 days: €30 & 14 days: €60 – Reservation: +33 7 68 10 76 81
- Saint-Jacques Parking (Center served by bus) – 13 bis de Roderie – Aiguilhe – Video surveillance – Reservation: +33 4 44 43 97 43 – 7 days: €35
- La Malle Postale – Parking at 7km from Le Puy – Drop-off and pick-up guaranteed – 7 days / 7– 7 days: €30 & 15 days: €50 – Reservation: 04 71 04 21 79
Prices given for information purposes only, subject to change without notice
Whether you’re looking to book your cycling trip or have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
with L'Autre Chemin
545€ / pers
Escapade vélo avec Stevenson, du Puy à Labastide-Puylaurent
Quelques jours à vélo sur le Chemin de Stevenson - GR70 du puy à La Bastide-Puylauent
€1030 / pers.
Dialogue with sir Stevenson, bike tour on the Stevenson trail
Stevenson by bike: an adventure in the heart of the Cévennes. From Le Puy-en-Velay to Saint-Jean-du-Gard, follow in Stevenson’s footsteps and discover the wild landscapes, authentic villages, and hidden treasures of the Cévennes by bicycle.
€430 / pers
4 days on the Stevenson Trail, from Puy-en-Velay to Pradelles
4 days on the Stevenson Trail, from Puy-en-Velay to Pradelles