Stevenson Trail GR70 Start
Hike the historic GR70, following Robert Louis Stevenson's path through France's stunning Velay and Cévennes regions. Well-marked and diverse.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather, blooming nature
Stevenson Trail GR70 Start
Best Time
Pleasant weather, blooming nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike the historic GR70, following Robert Louis Stevenson's path through France's stunning Velay and Cévennes regions. Well-marked and diverse.
"A long, lovely, diverse trail with unparalleled signage that makes it a breeze."
🥾 North to South Recommended
Hikers strongly recommend the north-to-south route for a more enjoyable and logical progression.
🏨 Accommodation Choices
Don't solely rely on the Stevenson Association's listed accommodations; explore other quality options online or in guidebooks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Le Puy-en-Velay Start
Le Puy-en-Velay
Begin your journey in this historic city, marked by its stunning cathedral and volcanic landscape. A truly inspiring starting point.
Cévennes Landscapes
Cévennes National Park
Experience diverse scenery, from colorful streams to serene mountains. The southern half offers spectacular views and a milder climate.
Challenging but Rewarding
Various sections
Embrace the ups and downs; the effort is rewarded with breathtaking vistas and a profound sense of accomplishment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Hiking Season
Navigating the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tips for walking Le Puy to Santiago
🥾 North to South Recommended
Hikers strongly recommend the north-to-south route for a more enjoyable and logical progression.
🏨 Accommodation Choices
Don't solely rely on the Stevenson Association's listed accommodations; explore other quality options online or in guidebooks.
Via Podiensis
🗺️ Excellent Signage
The trail's waymarks are superb, making navigation easy and reducing the need for constant map checks.
🎒 Pack for Varied Weather
Even in warmer months, be prepared for cold winds and rain, especially at higher elevations.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 North to South Recommended
Hikers strongly recommend the north-to-south route for a more enjoyable and logical progression.
🏨 Accommodation Choices
Don't solely rely on the Stevenson Association's listed accommodations; explore other quality options online or in guidebooks.
🗺️ Excellent Signage
The trail's waymarks are superb, making navigation easy and reducing the need for constant map checks.
🎒 Pack for Varied Weather
Even in warmer months, be prepared for cold winds and rain, especially at higher elevations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Stevenson Trail is widely praised for its stunning, diverse landscapes and exceptionally clear signage, making navigation a breeze. Hikers appreciate the challenging yet rewarding nature of the trek and the immersive cultural experience. Some find the northern sections less suitable for early spring hiking and advise careful selection of accommodations.
"A long, lovely, diverse trail with unparalleled signage that makes it a breeze. Plenty of ups and downs with views worth the climb and refreshing rest stops along the way. North to south is the recommended route and, having just completed the hike, I heartily concur. This is the 5th long-distance walk my husband and I’ve done overseas and we both agree that the French Grand Randonee “waymarks” - with their coexistent X’s that signify paths not to be taken - are in a class of their own. Thanks for keeping us on track!!"
Mary Capra
"Nice place"
HARIOM CHAUHAN
"MAGNIFICENT. 7 days on the Stevenson Trail from Le Puy-en-Velay to Pont-de-Montvert.
We covered 150 km, combining nature, culture, and spectacular landscapes. 🌟 Streams of changing colors, calm, and human encounters. Meals shared with hosts and other hikers. A challenging but unforgettable experience. When I set out on the Stevenson Trail, I didn't expect to experience such a beautiful adventure, full of surprises and emotions. Have a good trip and enjoy!"
Valérie LALLEMAND
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Le Puy-en-Velay is accessible by train and bus. Many international travelers fly into Lyon or Clermont-Ferrand and then take connecting transport. Researching train routes in advance is recommended for the best fares.
For longer distances or to skip less scenic parts, local buses and trains connect towns along the route. Booking tickets in advance is advisable, especially during peak season.
Depending on your endpoint, public transport options vary. Researching return routes from your final destination well in advance is crucial.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Stevenson Trail GR70 is a public hiking route and does not require any entry tickets or permits. You are free to hike it at any time.
Yes, accommodations like gîtes, refuges, and hotels along the trail will have their own fees. Prices can vary significantly, so budgeting is important.
Information points in towns like Le Puy-en-Velay usually operate standard business hours. It's best to check specific opening times online before your visit.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
The trail offers a mix of terrain, with ups and downs. While challenging at times, it's generally considered manageable for fit hikers, with stunning views as a reward.
Expect diverse landscapes including rolling hills, forests, mountain passes, and charming villages. The southern half, in particular, is praised for its spectacular views.
Yes, the trail is exceptionally well-marked with the classic French Grand Randonee waymarks (red and white stripes) and clear indicators for non-trail paths.
Absolutely. The excellent signage and availability of accommodations make it a popular choice for solo hikers. Many find it a safe and rewarding experience.
Pack sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing for variable weather, rain gear, a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a basic first-aid kit. Trekking poles can be helpful.
🍽️ knife_fork_plate Food & Dining
You'll find restaurants and cafes in most villages. Many accommodations also offer meals, and you can buy supplies in larger towns for packed lunches.
While traditional French cuisine is common, many places are accommodating. It's wise to mention dietary needs when booking accommodation or ordering meals.
Larger towns and villages will have bakeries and small grocery stores where you can purchase food for snacks and lunches.
📸 camera_with_flash Photography
The Cévennes region offers stunning panoramic views, especially from higher altitudes. Don't miss the colorful streams and charming village scenes.
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) provide beautiful light for landscapes. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing village details.
A smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing the beauty of the trail. If you're serious about photography, a lightweight DSLR or mirrorless camera would be ideal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider breaking the hike into manageable segments, using villages with amenities as bases. Many accommodations are family-friendly, and the opportunity to experience rural French life can be very enriching. Packing plenty of snacks and making the journey a game of 'spotting the waymarks' can add to the fun.
🚶 Solo Hikers
Booking accommodations in advance is still a good idea, even for solo travelers, to ensure you have a place to stay. The trail offers a great balance of solitude and social interaction, allowing you to connect with nature and fellow adventurers at your own pace.
💰 Budget Travelers
Traveling outside of peak season (July-August) might also offer slightly lower prices for accommodations. Look for towns with bakeries and small supermarkets for affordable provisions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Stevenson Trail: A Journey Through French Landscapes
Hikers often describe the experience as a blend of nature, culture, and personal challenge. The route takes you through varied terrains, from the volcanic plateaus of the Velay to the rugged beauty of the Cévennes mountains. Along the way, you'll encounter picturesque villages, ancient forests, and sparkling streams, offering a rich tapestry of French rural life. The trail's popularity stems from its manageable difficulty, stunning vistas, and the opportunity for deep immersion in the natural environment.
When planning your hike, consider the best time to visit, which is generally from June to October. The northern sections can be challenging in May due to lingering winter conditions, while the southern Cévennes are more pleasant earlier in spring. The trail's signage is a significant advantage, with distinctive red and white markings guiding you. While many accommodations are affiliated with the Stevenson Trail Association, exploring independent options can sometimes lead to higher quality stays.
Navigating and Preparing for the GR70
Preparation is key for a successful trek. While the trail is well-marked, it's still a long-distance hike. Essential gear includes sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing to adapt to changing weather (even in summer, higher altitudes can be cool), waterproofs, a hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Trekking poles can provide extra stability and reduce strain on joints, especially on descents.
Regarding accommodations, while the Stevenson Association lists many options, reviews suggest that quality can vary. It's highly recommended to research and book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season. Many hikers find excellent gîtes, chambres d'hôtes (B&Bs), and small hotels that are not officially listed but offer superior comfort and hospitality.
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