€1070 / pers

Ultreïa zen, the Camino bike tour with short stages
Distance
226km
Duration
8 days
Steps
Stages < 50km - Difficulty 2/5
Des vélos prêts pour l'aventure au départ du Puy-en-Velay

Ultréïa zen, Compostela by bike with lighter stages

The Camino de Santiago, a different way: gentler, more accessible, without missing out on the adventure.

Have you always dreamed of cycling in the footsteps of the pilgrims of Compostela, but are hesitant about the more demanding stages? Would you rather take your time, enjoy the scenery and discover the Camino at your own pace?

Ultréïa Zen is made for you!

Between Le Puy-en-Velay and Conques, we have created a gentler version of our Ultréïa itinerary: shorter stages, more manageable climbs and more relaxed routes, allowing you to cycle without focusing on performance and to leave more room for the simple pleasure of travelling.

Following the GR65, take the time to enjoy the landscapes, characterful villages, heritage and the unique atmosphere of the Camino de Santiago. A cycling adventure where the journey matters just as much as the destination.

Psst… a little detour for an even gentler ride!

To help you make the most of your journey, the route occasionally leaves the historic Camino to avoid some of the more challenging sections. You will mainly ride on quiet country roads and a few tracks, carefully selected to make the itinerary more accessible.

The result? A gentler cycling experience on the Camino de Santiago, while preserving the spirit of the route and its magnificent landscapes.

A wonderful way to experience the adventure of the Camino and make it accessible to as many cycling pilgrims as possible.

A cycling journey between roads and trails

The route is mainly on roads, with a few sections on tracks and small trails that are suitable for cyclists. You should therefore feel comfortable riding on a variety of surfaces and types of terrain.

And to finish your adventure in style, enjoy the magnificent Lot Valley before reaching Conques, a medieval gem nestled in the heart of the Aveyron countryside.

See our section: Preparing your bike trip

💛 The L’Autre Chemin little extra: Our agency is located in Le Puy-en-Velay, at 5 rue Grangevieille. This means we can easily welcome you at the start of your journey and share our in-depth knowledge of the Camino, including all its little secrets.

Ultréïa Zen means cycling the Camino de Santiago without chasing the miles: simply enjoying the ride, discovering new places and taking your time.

IMPORTANT: Although this route is more accessible than the standard version, choosing this trip requires a good level of self-management: knowing how to change an inner tube, reposition a derailed chain, and also knowing how to ride a bike even on trails and even small paths!

[WEBRESA]

The benefits of your stay:

  • You travel freely
  • Stopovers in private room with half-board
  • Easy to find your way with the new digital “travel diary & guidance” app Your luggage is delivered at each stop (1 bag max. 13kg/person – Max dimensions : L + W + H : 120cm)
  • The return of your bikes and your return is organized and included in the tour
  • For this trip, the bikes provided by the agency include insurance – More information can be found in the Insurance section
  • Our travel bikes for this stay
Your journey
Parcours Ultréïa zen, le chemin de Compostelle à vélo  du Puy à Conques en douceur

Your route:

  • Elevation gain 3,420m – Small roads, trails, and sometimes some accessible paths Self-guided cycling tour (you choose your departure point and set off solo, with family, or with friends) Moderate route length and daily elevation gain
  • Family: Children from 12 years old, depending on cycling ability
  • Accommodation: Private room (B&B, cottage, hotel, or alternative accommodation)
  • Good to know: You’ll be travelling from one place to another, and the accommodation standards may vary from one stage to the next.
  • What’s the climate like? See our Frequently Asked Questions

Please note that every stopover is given as an indication and may be modified according to the availability of accommodation 

Les rues colorées du Puy-en-Velay
Day 1: Your arrival in Le Puy-en-Velay

This is your chance to discover the historic town of Le Puy-en-Velay! Take your time to wander through the upper town, explore its hidden alleyways and admire its rich heritage. Don’t miss the magnificent Notre-Dame du Puy Cathedral, the true starting point of the Camino de Santiago.
A first immersion in the history and spirit of the Camino, even before you get on your bike!

To discover :
• Le Puy-en-Velay
> Crozatier Museum
> Notre-Dame de France
> L’Hôtel-Dieu
> Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe chapel
> The medieval town
> The Cathedral
> The castle of Polignac
> During summer, the light show Puy de Lumières
> The immersive Show Hôtel e Lumières
> The Immersive show Terres de Géant

Voyage à vélo en pleine nature pour tous
Day 2: Le Puy-en-Velay - Monistrol d'Allier - 35km - D+650m

dotted with its remarkable chibottes — traditional dry-stone shelters once used by shepherds.
Continue along quiet country roads, carefully chosen to avoid the more challenging sections. Head towards Saint-Christophe-sur-Dolaison, then Seneujols, before reaching Montbonnet.
The route then climbs a little higher, taking you along a trail to Lac de l’Œuf. The landscape opens up, the surroundings become wilder… and Saint-Privat-d’Allier soon comes into view.
After the village, enjoy a wonderful descent as you make your way down to Monistrol-d’Allier, nestled in the valley below. The final highlight of the day is crossing the Allier River via the spectacular Eiffel Bridge, an impressive feat of engineering spanning the river.
A first day filled with beautiful landscapes, heritage and adventure — the perfect gentle introduction to your Camino cycling experience.

Discover:
• Saint-Christophe-sur-Dolaizon
> The magnificent 11th-century church
> Its castle (private property)
> The view of the Dolaizon Valley

• Montbonnet
> The charming Saint-Roch Church

• Saint-Privat d'Allier
> The Château de Saint-Privat d'Allier
> The Priory and the esplanade overlooking the Allier Valley

• Monistrol d'Allier
> The Eiffel Bridge
> Le Vivier Beach
> Whitewater sports
> The Saint-Pierre Church

Saugues à vélo sur le Chemin de Compostelle
Day 3: Monistrol d'Allier - La Clauze- 25km - D+720m

On the way to Saugues, in the heart of Gévaudan
A beautiful climb awaits you today as you make your way to Saugues, the gateway to the mysterious Gévaudan, a land of wide-open spaces, wild landscapes and legends.
Yes, there’s a climb ahead! But this is the Zen version, so there’s no need to chase the miles. Take your time, climb at your own pace, look around and enjoy the scenery… while your electric-assist bike gives you a helping hand on the steeper sections.
Little by little, the landscapes of Gévaudan unfold before you, and Saugues appears at the end of the trail, a well-earned reward for your efforts.
So, Buen Camino… and enjoy the climb!

Discover:
• Saugues
> The English Tower
> The Beast of Gévaudan Fantastic Museum
> Biological Swimming

• La Clauze
> The Polygonal Tower

Near La Clauze
> The village of Esplantas
> Le Truc de la Garde (highest point with a magnificent panorama)

Eglise d'Aumont-Aubrac
Day 4: La Clauze - Aumont -Aubrac - 42km - D+690m

From Margeride to Aubrac, following the Camino
The Camino de Santiago (GR65) has more breathtaking landscapes in store for you today! By bike, you’ll cross the wide-open spaces of Margeride, riding through heathland, forests and vast, sweeping horizons.
Little by little, you leave Haute-Loire behind and enter Lozère, making your way towards Aubrac. Along the way, take a break at Domaine du Sauvage, an iconic stop on the Camino, before continuing on to Saint-Alban-sur-Limagnole.
At last, the scenery begins to change and Aubrac draws closer… until you reach Aumont-Aubrac, your destination for the day.
Here, the motto remains the same: take it easy and enjoy the ride! The Camino guides you, the landscapes inspire you, and your electric-assist bike supports you every step of the way, allowing you to make the most of every turn of the pedals.
No need to push too hard: just keep moving, breathe deeply and savour the journey…

To discover:
> The Domaine du Sauvage
> The Saint-Roch Chapel

• Saint-Alban-sur-Limagnole
> The European Bison Reserve
> Saint-Alaban Castle
> The Church
> The typical landscapes of Aubrac
> Aubrac cows
> Taste Aligot

• Aumont-Aubrac
> The Priory House
> Saint-Etienne Church

La cascade du décor - Aubrac
Day 5: Aumont-Aubrac - Aubrac - 35km - D+510m

Aubrac, Wild and Majestic
Welcome to Aubrac! Here, the landscape stretches as far as the eye can see, giving your journey an incredible sense of freedom. Meandering streams, great rocky outcrops scattered across the meadows, lush green pastures and wide-open horizons… everything is here to take your breath away!
In the heart of this unspoilt countryside, discover the village of Aubrac, a charming little hamlet that seems to have been simply placed there, right in the middle of the vast open landscape. Take your time to wander around, breathe in the fresh air and soak up its unique atmosphere.
Aubrac is worth the effort… but in the Zen version, it’s above all about discovering it with a smile and enjoying every turn of the pedals.

Discover:
• La Chaze de Peyre
> The church

• Rieutort d'Aubrac
> The village

• Nasbinals
> The town's general architecture
> The Romanesque church
> The Bès River
> The Déroc waterfall

• Aubrac
> The 12th-century Domerie church
> The English Tower
> The old hospital
> The Maison de l'Aubrac
> Notre-Dame des Gentianes d'Aubrac

Estaing au bord du Lot
Day 6: Aubrac - Estaing -43km - D+430m

Along the Camino to the Lot Valley
The Camino de Santiago by bike still has plenty of surprises in store… Because here, every good climb is often followed by a wonderful descent! So relax, let yourself be carried along and enjoy the ever-changing scenery.
Little by little, the route leads you towards the Lot Valley, in the heart of Aveyron. The landscapes evolve, charming villages appear along the way, and every turn of the pedals brings a new discovery.
A wonderful day to experience the Aveyron way of life, with quiet country roads, characterful villages and sweeping landscapes.
And always in Zen mode: take the climbs at your own pace… then enjoy the descent!

Discover:
• Saint-Chély d'Aubrac
> The Pilgrims' Bridge
> The Church
> The Wash Houses
> The Half-Timbered Houses

• Saint-Côme d'Olt - Labeled "Most Beautiful Villages of France"
> The Church's Twisted Bell Tower
> The Town's Overall Architecture
> The Slate Roofs
> The Penitents' Chapel
> The Gentle Life on the Banks of the Lot

• Espalion
> The Old Pink Sandstone Bridge
> The Old Palace
> The Diving Suit Museum! > The Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions - Joseph Vaylet
> Rouergue Museum

• Bessuéjouls
> St. Pierre Church, built of pink stone

• Estaing - Labeled "Most Beautiful Villages of France"
> The Gothic Bridge over the Lot
> Estaing Castle

Intérieur de l'Abbaye Sainte-Foy de Conques
Day 7: Estaing - Conques - 46km - D+420m

Along the Lot Valley to Conques
Today, the Camino takes a little detour! You leave the GR65 behind for a while and follow a beautiful road alongside the flowing waters of the Lot River. It’s a refreshing change of pace, where the river, peaceful country roads and stunning scenery come together for a delightful day of cycling.
Little by little, the route leads you towards the Dourdou Gorges. The landscape becomes more dramatic, the valley narrows and the scenery grows wilder… until you finally reach Conques, a true gem nestled in the heart of Aveyron.
The Pearl of Rouergue welcomes you: a wonderful reward and the perfect finale to your adventure along the Camino de Santiago!

Discover:
• Entraygues-sur-Truyère
> The confluence of the Lot and Truyère Rivers
> The Castle
> St. George's Church
> The bridges (Gothic over the Truyère and the Notre-Dame Bridge)
> The medieval character of the town

• Conques
> The Abbey Church of Sainte-Foy and its tympanum depicting the Last Judgment
> The Treasure of Conques
> The general architecture of the village and its atmosphere
> The Joseph Fau Museum
> The peaceful Dourdou Valley

Le Puy-en-Velay a nice devanture ont Saint-James way
Day 8: Retour vers le-Puy-en-Velay

Your adventure is coming to an end… but there’s no need to cycle all the way back!
Meet at the Étoile car park in Conques at 8:00 am or 1:30 pm, depending on your chosen departure time. A minibus will be waiting to take you back to Le Puy-en-Velay, with your bikes.
🚌 Departure from Conques: 8:00 am → arrival expected around 12:15 pm
🚌 Departure from Conques: 1:30 pm → arrival expected around 5:15 pm
Arrival times are indicative and may vary depending on traffic conditions.
All that’s left to do is enjoy Conques one last time… then sit back, relax and let us bring you safely back to Le Puy-en-Velay!

Prices include:

  • Accommodation in a double, twin, multiple-occupancy or single room (with supplement) according to your booking
  • Half-board except
  • Tourist taxes,
  • Luggage transfer at the stopover (one bag, max. 13kg/person – Max dimensions : L + W + H : 120cm),
  • Journey back to the starting point (passenger & bike) 
  • Access to the guidance app and travel diary,
  • Telephone assistance.

Extras

  • Electric bike rental or a non-electric bike rental, two rear panniers, a helmet, a light repair kit,
  • Multitasks and cancellation insurance
  • Credancial
  • Single supplement

This price does not include

  • Transportation and transfers to the starting point Meals other than those listed in the description
  • Multirisks and annulation insurance
  • 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
  • Generally, anything not listed in the “This price includes” section

Administration fees

  • €12/person if ordered online
  • €15/person via quote

As an optional extra, L’Autre Chemin offers:

You want to rent a bike

  • E- bike rental with two panniers + the guarantee “Serein Mind”: +€245/bike
  • Standard bike rental with two panniers + the guarantee “Serein 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. City and road bikes are therefore prohibited. Our trips are more or less sporty, and a basket on the handlebars is to be avoided, as are large city bags. You’ll be riding on 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 doubts? Contact us.

The Credencial

The pilgrim’s passport must be stamped at each stopover. We offer the optional Friends of the Way of St. James Credencial. No need to travel, it will be delivered to your first hotel before your arrival. However, if you plan to attend the Pilgrims’ Mass at 7 a.m. at Le Puy Cathedral, you can pick up credencials on site. Price: 

Add a final night in Le Puy

Because it’s always nice to rest before leaving, but also to enjoy the city of Le Puy a little longer, you can opt for an additional night at the end of your stay. Contact us ;-)

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. Note: The stages along the Camino 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 Camino de Santiago offers a range of unconventional 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 cycling trip to 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 very pleasant 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 – Reservations: +33 4 71 02 03 54

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 – €30 / week – Reservation: +33 7 68 10 76 81
  • Foch Parking – 6 avenue du Maréchal Foch – Video surveillance – 7 days: €40 days: – 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 electric bike trip along the GR65 or have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.








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