Why not take advantage of the May bank holidays to explore the major hiking trails starting from Le Puy-en-Velay? A true crossroads of long-distance hiking trails (GR®), this city is a starting point, a destination, and an essential stop for hiking enthusiasts. In spring, the verdant volcanic landscapes, longer days, and mild temperatures offer ideal conditions for a getaway. Discover here some ideas for short itineraries (2 to 4 days), perfect for a nature escape in May, combining heritage, panoramic views, and a chance to disconnect.
Take a step on the Way of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle GR65
The mythical road of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle, also called via Podiensis, offers one of its most beautiful sections between Le Puy-en-Velay and Conques. This route crosses four remarkable territories : the volcanic Velay, the Margeride, the Aubrac and the Lot valley.
👉 Ideal for a few days' immersion in the spring.
Suggested short route:
4 DAYS: from Puy-en-Velay to Aumont-Aubrac (89,5 km)
- Day 1: From Le Puy-en-Velay to Montbonnet – 16,5 km
- Day 2: From Montbonnet to Saugues – 26,5 km
- Day 3: From Saugues to Sauvage – 19,5 km
- Day 4: From Sauvage to Aumont-Aubrac – 27 km
A few days on the Stevenson Trail GR70
Made famous by Robert Louis Stevenson, this legendary GR®70 route takes you in the footsteps of his journey through the Cévennes with his donkey Modestine. The official starting point is in Le Monastier-sur-Gazeille, just 20 km from Le Puy.
👉 A perfect hike to combine nature, literature and adventure.
Suggested short route:
3 DAYS: from Puy-en-Velay to Langogne (70 km)
- Day 1: From Le Puy-en-Velay to Le Monastier-sur-Gazeille – 19 km
- Day 2: From Monastier-sur-Gazeille to Bouchet-Saint-Nicolas – 24 km
- Day 3: From Bouchet-Saint-Nicolas to Langogne – 27 km
Explore the wild Loire Gorges on the GR3 and GR3F trails.
Looking for a flexible and accessible hike? The TER'® routes allow you to walk from station to station, easily adapting the length of your stay. An ideal solution for an eco-friendly holiday in the heart of the Loire Gorges.
👉 Perfect for a nature getaway without logistical constraints.
Our suggestions:
3 DAYS: from Retournac to Le Puy-en-Velay (49 km)
- Day 1: From Retournac to Vorey-sur-Arzon – 22 km
- Day 2: From Vorey-sur-Arzon to Polignac – 20 km
- Day 3: From Polignac to Le Puy-en-Velay – 7 km
4 DAYS: from Aurec-sur-Loire to Le Puy-en-Velay (92 km)
- Day 1: From Aurec-sur-Loire to Bas-en-Basset – 18 km
- Day 2: From Bas-en-Basset to Retournac – 25 km
- Day 3: From Retournac to Vorey-sur-Arzon – 22 km
- Day 4: From Vorey-sur-Arzon to Le Puy-en-Velay – 27 km
A gourmet break on the Saint-Régis Way GR430
This 200km trail immerses you in unspoiled nature between Haute-Loire and Ardèche. Between forests, volcanic plateaus and charming villages, it offers an authentic experience, ideal in spring.
👉 Worth discovering for its varied landscapes and local heritage.
Suggestions for short routes:
3 DAYS: from Dunières to Le Puy-en-Velay (71,5 km)
- Day 1: From Dunières to Tence – 23,5 km
- Day 2: From Tence to Queyrières – 19,5 km
- Day 3: From Queyrières to Le Puy-en-Velay – 28,5 km
4 DAYS: loop starting from Le Puy-en-Velay (80 km)
- Day 1: From Le Puy-en-Velay to Le Monastier-sur-Gazeille – 19,5 km
- Day 2: From Monastier-sur-Gazeille to Saint-Front – 22 km
- Day 3: From Saint-Front to Saint-Julien-Chapteuil – 19,5 km
- Day 4: From Saint-Julien-Chapteuil to Le Puy-en-Velay – 19 km
Travel along the Régordane Way GR700
Also known as the Chemin de Saint-Gilles , this historic route connects Le Puy-en-Velay to Saint-Gilles-du-Gard. A former trade and transhumance route , it now offers a hike rich in history and contrasting landscapes.
👉 Recommended for walkers in search of authenticity.
Suggested short route (challenging level):
3 DAYS: from Puy-en-Velay to La Bastide (74,5 km)
- Day 1: From Le Puy-en-Velay to Costaros – 20 km
- Day 2: From Costaros to Langogne – 25 km
- Day 3: From Langogne to La Bastide – 29,5 km
Why hike in May in Puy-en-Velay?
- Nature in full bloom
- Ideal temperatures for walking
- Moderate visitor numbers before summer
- Wide selection of short or multi-day hikes
Treat yourself nature break in spring and set off to discover the most beautiful trails starting from Le Puy-en-Velay!
Explore the entire GR® range for longer hikes.
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