Hiking Midi-Pyrénées

To enjoy the beauties of the region with passionate people, in a spirit of sharing and with optimized safety conditions, call on the Bureau des Accompagnateurs du Volvestre. A team of mountain professionals, all state-qualified, will accompany you through the Pyrenees. If you have time, extend your stay by a weekend or a week to discover the massif on the Spanish side.

Starting from the quai de la Vène, the short hike - indicated by yellow markers - takes you around the Garrigue Plane, above the Agas sheepfold and in a 360° panorama on the windmills. The itinerary goes through the kermes oaks, which cover the foothills of the Aumelas plateau, and leads to a point of view on the blue waters of the Thau pond. The level of difficulty is average, it takes 4 hours of walking for 12 km and 160 m of ascent.

In the mountains, the small village of Prats-de-Mollo offers a thousand years of history to discover. Browse the ramparts to atteintre the castle's cannons, take the underground passages to access the best hidden clues, and this small village with Hispanic sonorité will have no secrets for you! An interactive, playful and educational hike where both the small and the large will enjoy their happiness.

Tariff: free.

Distance: 4 km.

Difficulty: .

Two tours in one! At the beginning of Brie, this divisible course in two parts pace up the area surrounding the town and the valley of Lavra. The first loop leaves south in a wooded area, while the second, in the east, climbs to the slopes of Terrefort, offering on the way an excellent views of the Pyrenees (at least weather permitting). If 8 km are too long walk for you, choose à la carte, the option that suits you best!

Price: free.

Distance: buckle integral: 8.3 km; buckle southern: 3.5 km; buckle is: 4.8 km away.

Problem: easy.

On this easy walk through the heart of the town, you will quickly understand why stone and art are the emblems of Moissac. Starting from the cloister, you will slowly make your way towards the Saint-Pierre abbey church and the tympanum, then, before continuing to the Place des Récollets, make a detour to the former abbey palace. Then take successively the rue du Général-Gras, the rue des Arts and the rue Sainte-Catherine, without missing the beautiful Saint-Jacques church on the way.

On foot or by bike, go to Boudou for this outing to the birds. From the bridge of Coudol you are quickly heading to the leisure base of Saint-Nicolas-de-la-Grave, from which you will enjoy a privileged point of view on the same name, formed by the confluence of the Tarn and the Garonne. If the place is ideal for the practice of nautical activities, it is also a large ornithological reserve, recognized for the diversity of bird species that inhabit it. The observatory is a little further away; to reach it, you will have to walk along the banks of the Garonne over two kilometres. Then continue to the village of Saint-Nicolas-de-la-Grave, before you go back.

Tariff: free.

Distance: 12,3 km.

Difficulty: .

Here is an urban hike, accessible in the middle of the city, and yet in the nature, along the Tarn and the Caussels. These three trails take you through a preserved and maintained country setting for 7 kilometers along the GR 36. The "sentier des Berges" first links the cathedral parking lot to the mouth of the Caussels stream, then gives way to the "Sentier sauvage", between the Pont-Neuf and the avenue du Loirat. Finally, the Mouline trail ends the loop, stretching to the Planques parking lot.

The tours of Albi's historic center take you on a walking adventure, accessible to all and free of charge. Equipped with explanatory panels, three itineraries reveal the city's secrets and guide you through its picturesque districts. The purple circuit lets you discover the charms of the Castelviel, Castelnau and Bourg Saint-Salvi districts. The gold circuit takes you through the lively streets of Patus Cremat and Vigan. The azure circuit allows you to admire the landscapes of the Berges du Tarn and Les Combes. Get your map from the Tourist Office or download it from their website.

Price: free.

Duration: 1h30 on average.

Difficulty: easy.

From Castres, the path of the little train of Lacaune invites you to hike in a bucolic setting, partly along the Agoût river. Gardens, streams, undergrowth and small bridges are on the program - be careful with children when you overhang the river. After eight kilometers of walking, jogging or biking, you will reach the medieval village of Burlats. In addition to its several monuments, you will find toilets and a water point. The more athletic walkers can continue the hike towards Lacaune.

Starting from the Col du Soulor, two discovery trails follow one another to reveal the wonders of this magnificent mountain site, which is also a migratory passage for birds. You begin your exploration at an altitude of 1,474 meters on the sentier des Rapaces, which takes 45 minutes to complete. Featuring five informative panels, it guides you to the La Tachouère restaurant, showing you how to recognize the different species. Then the Passereaux trail (1h30) takes over, offering a more playful route through the forest.

To speak of the "Battle of Le Boulou" would be a little bit wrong since the site actually saw two battles, one in 1793 and the other in 1794. Both occurred during the Roussillon War, during the wars of the French Revolution of the First Coalition. That's it for the few introductory words; for the rest, refer to the 18 explanatory panels that mark out the route, they will allow everyone to understand the history of the place.

Set off on a relatively easy 6.1 km hike. The route follows the ridge between the Hérault and Rieutord valleys. Start at Sumène in the Gard department. From Avenue de la Gare, head for Cap de Coste via Pont-Grand. Le Serre will soon be signposted, so keep following the signs. You'll eventually reach your starting point via Rue du Coin, then cross Pont-Grand again.

Come and meet the Lord of lozériennes forests: chestnut. At the beginning of Molezon, this easy 2,5 kilometre trail evolves in full nature between streams, forest, terraces and stone walls. At the end of the journey you can reach a restored mas in which you can enjoy a 40-minute audio show from mid-June to mid-September on the oral memory of the French Valley. However, if you can, we particularly recommend this walk in the autumn: The colours are of all beauty, and you can enjoy a few chestnuts and mushrooms!

Tariff: free.

Distance: 2,5 km.

Difficulty: .

Follow a charming itinerary, suitable for all walkers, with no major difficulties. Stretching over just 1.5 km, this walk invites you to explore the key points of interest in Florac, the capital of the Cévennes National Park. Guided by the murmur of the Pêcher spring, you'll visit not only the château, but also sites such as the Saint-Martin church, the former convent, the Vibron and the ferradou. Departing from the Tourist Office, the route is punctuated by 12 numbered interpretation markers.

Top start at the spa resort of Bagnols-les-Bains. This hike of some 8 kilometres will lead you first to the village of Saint-Julien-du-Tournel, where the loop begins to take you to the awaited castle of the Tournel. The trail is easy and pleasant, it evolves along the Lot valley. Do you have any doubt about your itinerary? You can rely on green markup, you can't lose!

Tariff: free.

Distance: 8,4 km.

Difficulty: .

Markup: green.

It is the trail No. 15 of the Guide Guide Trail and its surrounding area (reference P 481). At the beginning of the sport of the sportif of the Causse de Mende, this pédestre loop brings you back to the pastoral life of the last century. As you go down, on a quiet and without difficulty path, you cross the dead villages of Gerbal and Chaumette. Always follow the pine apple of the NFB markup: you will return to your starting point after two hours of walking.

Tariff: free.

Distance: 5,9 km.

Duration: 2 h.

Difficulty: .

Markup: NFB - Pine apple.

Short, easy and without big difference in level, this circuit reserves you a breathtaking point of view on the valley of the Lot and on the city of Capdenac-Gare. But this is not its only asset. From the parking lot of the ramparts of Capdenac-le-Haut, the itinerary leads you to the Gaulish fountain and the fountain of Caesar, two masterpieces of the historical heritage of the town. You are here on the site of the battle of Uxellodunum, the last battle of the Gallic War, in 51 BC.

On foot or by bike, this hiking loop reserves a varied and varied landscape. However, rest assured that there are no big difficulties in perspective! In a landscape of slopes and vineyards, your journey leads you in particular to the villages of Juillac and Tourdun, to close the Aménagé lake, km away. In the summer, why not complete your effort with the comfort of a swimming? With family or friends, here is an interesting option for the Sunday exit!

Tariff: free.

Distance: 15,4 km.

Difficulty: .

Markup: yellow and black.

When you're lucky enough to live or stay at altitude, there are some physical activities that just flow out of you! Nordic hiking is a perfect example. At Col de Picotalen, there are three signposted routes for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. If you're a beginner or have little training, we recommend the shortest. Its 3.6 kilometers will already give you a great view of the snow-covered mountains. Cross-country skis, sledges and snowshoes are available for hire from the chalet.

The remarkable sequence of religious oratories dedicated to the crucifixion of Christ, which you can admire today, is largely the result of the unstinting commitment of the residents. Built in the second half of the ^19th century, the chapels were damaged during the war and then forgotten under a thicket of brambles. It wasn't until 1984 that a voluntary clearing initiative was undertaken by the villagers.

It's a walk like they love, which leads us to discover the natural heritage of the region by giving us, of course, some explanations about local flora. At the time of the 1,6 km course, the trail climbs up the hill to reach its peak, the television relay located near the hermitage. From here, the panoramic view lends itself to an extended stop: take the time to contemplate it. But if the spectacle is grandiose, let us not forget that of the cross-cutting vegetation: depending on soil orientation, it changes considerably!

Tariff: free.

Distance: 3,3 km return.

Duration: 1 h.

Difficulty: .

From land to sea, from vineyards to marshes, from bulls to horses, the voie verte lets you concentrate on the landscapes around you! Easy and level, it follows the Bas-Rhône-Languedoc canal for 7 kilometers. Today, this short trail is part of the "Camargue Gardoise Discovery Loop", a 17-kilometer itinerary that can be explored on foot or by bike along quiet country roads.

Price: free.

Distance: 7 km.

Difficulty: easy.

Families, this walk is for you and your children: short, easy and fast, it is accessible from five years old! In Congénies, leave the Fort district and head towards the Chemin creux via the rue du Temple. Soon you will see the signpost for the start of the "Garrigue Gourmande" circuit; this route is not yours but the first part of it is common to it: follow the yellow markings.

Price: free.

Duration: 1 hour.

Difficulty: easy.

Hike Occitane is a 6-minute walk from May 2016 to the end of October 2016. These hikes are aimed at discovering the natural beauties and the sights of the Midi-Pyrénées region. On October 29 and 30, the «Hike Occitane» will be held in Eycheil.

Located at the exit of Saint-Girons, Eycheil is a municipality of the Regional Natural Park of the Ariègeoises Pyrenees. With its 450 hectares from west to east, at the foot of the cliffs of the Sourroque massif (1 100 m), Eycheil is the ideal starting point for various walks.

Home and registration

In the Fêtes Ballroom. A p. m. October 29, 7 p. m. October 30

Departure and distance

October 29: 14 h for a 1 km thematic circuit (difference 230 m)

October 30: 9 h 30 for a thematic circuit with and commented on 5,5 km without uneven.

Above all for cyclists, this hiking is also possible by a guided walk of 8 km. You can explore the beautiful hilly trails of the region and discover the many natural treasures of the area. So don't miss the 12 ^th edition of the!!

Tariff: 7 €.

Distance: 8 km.

Departure: visit the Municipal municipal stadium.

Difficulty: .

Canyoning, climbing, snowshoeing, descending the Pic du Midi, skiing, snowboarding, telemark skiing... These are just some of the activities offered by Matthias and his team. Thanks to Pyrénées Guides, the mountains are accessible all year round. Matthias, a true mountain enthusiast and expert on the Pyrenees, guarantees optimal conditions. You'll benefit from the supervision of mountain guides, ensuring safe outings whatever your level. These passionate people are here to help you discover the splendor of the valleys and summits.

You want to watch marmots with their little ones, learn to recognize juniper berries, wonder in front of the majesty of theft of an eagle…? Contact Jacques Martin. Domiciled in the Eastern Pyrenees for more than thirty years, this accompanying guide takes you to the paths of the Mediterranean at the summits of the Pyrenees, from the Aude to Ariège through South Catalonia. Thanks to his advice and experience, you will make an exciting hike. Unleashing and elevation (both clean and figurative) guaranteed!

Seven hiking trails have been created, including the Art Nature trail. In the centre of Latouille-Lentillac, to the left of the church, a small path climbs up to the locality of Larraufie where the walk starts. The Art Nature path is a real museum in the woods, combined with a botanical path. Throughout a walk of more than a kilometre, you will discover about sixty surprising, tender, magical works of art... A poetic and enchanting walk. To see and to see again, alone, with your partner or with your family, it is always a great pleasure and it is... free of charge.

What are these "phosphatières"? They are, in fact, old mines whose exploitation during the ^19th century led to the unsuspected discovery of fossils over 30 million years old! Accompanied by a guide, you gradually make your way into the heart of this open-air cave, where the tropical atmosphere is truly exotic! Then venture off on your own into the various themed areas, before finishing off with a moment of relaxation in the picnic area set aside for the occasion.

Price: €7 per adult, €4.50 per child (6-14), €6 concessions.

Distance: 9 km.

Duration: 1h30 to 3h.

Difficulty: easy.

Every year in early June, cyclists gather for the Montée du Géant, an event in the Hautes-Pyrénées that celebrates the ascent of the Le Géant statue to 2,115 m altitude on the Tourmalet. Designed by Jean-Bernard Métais, the statue honors all the cyclists who have tackled this climb in the Tour de France, including Octave Lapize, the first rider to do so in 1910. It's an opportunity to make a unique ascent, which the bravest cyclists do by the strength of their calves.

There are ten signposted walks starting from Rieumes, representing one hundred and twenty kilometres of paths. Seven of them meander through the valley and present no particular difficulty, so they are perfect for family outings, while three others cover the hillsides and require a little more effort, which is quickly rewarded by the panorama. You will find details of the routes, information and safety instructions at the tourist information office.

Sylvie Delmas organizes relevant and original tours, linking the driving forces of local tourism (craftsmen, restaurateurs, producers, artists, museum curators and health professionals) to the curious of the region, according to the calendar. The programmes of visits and stays are extremely varied, allowing everyone to find something to satisfy their curiosity and desire for discovery, whatever their physical condition.

Saint-Sulpice is embraced by a mosaic of landscapes just waiting to be discovered. It is criss-crossed by numerous signposted footpaths, allowing you to get close to its natural and heritage treasures. Le Petit Futé shares two favorites:

the Pays d'en hauttrail , covering 15 km and passing through Lugan, Azas and Saint-Sulpice

the Plaines de l'Agouttrail : 6 km long, it passes through Saint-Lieux-lès-Lavaur and the Ludolac leisure park

Further information is available from the tourist office.

Starting from the lake of Nabeillou, between woods and hills, the path of the Three Lakes offers beautiful views of the region. Lakes and forests, panoramas of crests and multicolored valleys, will make you discover a preserved fauna and flora. A rather impressive nature bath! With a length of 7,5 km, and a duration of approximately 2h30, you will discover on the way an old chapel, Notre-Dame-des-Vignes, and pretty woods. And for the more athletic, there is a fitness trail around the lakes of Miquelou and Nabeillou.

This fun trail was created at the Col de la Bassine, on the road to Brassac, 6 kilometers from Lacaune. At an altitude of nearly 1,000 meters, the 3.5 km itinerary lasts a maximum of 1.5 hours. Its circuit leads to the discovery of a well-preserved nature and of the traditions or legends that have marked its history. To better understand the different elements of this interpretation trail, booklets for adults and children are on sale at the Lacaune tourist information office.

The area around Lacaune boasts over 1,000 hectares of deciduous and coniferous trees, as well as numerous hiking trails and picnic areas. More than half of the Monts de Lacaune's surface area is forested, a perfect illustration of the department's conservation and protection efforts. Most of the forest is made up of hardwoods - dominated by beech - located on the heights and slopes. Perfect for venturing out into the greenery.

Aline, with her light gait, guides you through the most beautiful Pyrenean landscapes, offering a delightful experience! During the summer, whether it's for a day or a multi-day getaway, she'll take you out with her donkeys, who'll carry your equipment for you. So you can walk with a light heart and nimble feet! In the evening, sit by the fire, listening to Aline's spellbinding tales and dreaming... In winter, don your snowshoes and head out into the snow in search of ermine tracks!

The tour of the lakes, from late May to early October, offers hikers a memorable experience. They follow the trail to Aubert and Aumar, which starts from the Lac d'Orédon parking lot. Located on the left-hand side of the route des lacs, about 1 km after Orédon, the trail takes less than an hour to reach the first laquette. The hike continues along the GR10 towards Estoudou, before returning to Orédon, the starting point for this trail, which is accessible to all walkers in good physical condition.

All year round, Bruno offers a variety of hikes and snowshoe hikes, as well as outdoor activities. In his preferred terrain, explore the Pyrenees. Formulas, adapted to all members of the family, range from half-day to several days: overnight stays in igloos, night snowshoe hikes, accompanied itineraries with bivouac and camping options over two days, discovery of Nordic walking between Nistos and the Baronnies, ascent of easily accessible summits up to the famous 3,000-meter peaks!

The Eurovélo 8, or Mediterranean cycle route, which links Cadiz to Athens, i.e. 5,388 km, and Pirinexus, the cross-border cycle touring loop between Southern Catalonia and Northern Catalonia, i.e. 353 km, meet in Le Boulou. We strongly advise you to get the guide book in order to make the most of the richness of the Catalan country. You will find, at the Tourist Office of Le Boulou, the Voie Verte cycling guide as well as all the good addresses where you can taste the local products and of course where to stay along your route.

This 5.5 km urban trail allows you to discover different aspects of the town of Gaillac. From Saint-Michel Abbey, it descends towards the river to follow the banks of the Tarn. The city seems far away! The Hortalisse district, with its maze of paths leading from garden to garden, tells the story of the market gardeners who, until the ^mid-20th century, supplied the surrounding markets. The walk ends at the river Tarn and the prosperous old port.

Solomiac offers beautiful hikes in its surroundings, with notably the Pigeonniers trail or the Gimone trail. The 17 different routes allow you to enjoy the beauty of the Gers countryside and its bucolic panoramas. Hiking maps can be obtained from the Mauvezin Tourist Office or from the Solomiac town hall, which has financed a wonderful educational booklet allowing children to discover the banks of the Gimone.

Discovery trail of the Gimone. This trail is 1.7 km to 3 km long and is ideal to walk with children. Designed by the association Arbre et Paysage 32, it was financed by the Community of Communes. An educational booklet accompanies the trail and allows the youngest to become familiar with nature. Explanations, games, anecdotes allow to approach different themes: water, soil, fauna, flora, biotope, ecosystem and sustainable development. The games were created by students from the schools of Solomiac and Sarrant. The booklet, free of charge, can be picked up at the town hall of Solomiac or in the Tourist Offices. The map of the path can be downloaded from the commune's website.

Randonnée des Pigeonniers. This 14 km loop is for adults or cyclists. It crosses the countryside surrounding Solomiac and will lead you to the discovery of the pigeon houses, emblematic of the culture of the South-West. You can also see windmills and enjoy a superb panorama. The circuit is described in detail on the commune's website.

A former railroad line, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time as soon as you take your first steps, or start pedaling. The 3 m wide track passes over the Eiffel-type Lavassac metal bridge, viaducts and tunnels for 3.5 km. Pleasant both for the quality of its surface and for the views it affords over the Cévennes valley of the Rivière d'Arre. It lends itself equally well to walks and bike rides with family and friends, rollerblade training and daily jogging.

The terraces of the Frontonnais are perfect for walks in the sun. Ten signposted itineraries of between 1.5 and 3.5 hours take you through the vineyards. Don't miss the Vitirando , starting in Vacquiers, which takes you on an olfactory tour thanks to the special terminals! Out and about with children? Ask at the tourist office for the "Ten family walks in the Frontonnais" booklet: it offers educational and fun walking tours.

At the heart of the Haut-Languedoc Regional Nature Park lies the Gorges d'Héric, an exceptional site that has been listed since 1993. Thanks to a trail, you can discover the richness of the flora and fauna, stroll along the water and discover the waterfalls and chasms. Signs ask questions. Answers can be found in the "Gorges d'Héric booklet", on sale at the Tourist Office. The walk is on foot, and takes 5 km and 315 m of ascent. It takes about 1h30 with normal walking, 2h with breaks. The return journey takes the same route, i.e. 10 km round trip. Ideal for families, with stroller access. The Gorges d'Héric is also a place where you can cool off in the natural pools. Héric is a charming, picturesque hamlet with small stone houses, slate roofs and chestnut frames, narrow streets and terraced fields.

Practical info : From Mons-la-Trivalle, head for the Gorges d'Héric parking lot. Paid parking on Easter weekends and from April 15 to September 15. The Snack Loulette welcomes you. Picnic tables, toilets, water points, sandwiches and drinks are also available in Héric.

Did you know? Numerous hikes are possible from this site, including the Sentier des Gardes, accessible from the Soupirs footbridge (on the right at the start of the gorges), which takes 2h30 to reach the Caroux orientation table (Caution: significant difference in altitude: 800 m D+).

This short interpretive trail takes you to meet bitterns, birds in the same family as egrets and herons. If you want to catch a glimpse of some of these birds, you'll need to be quiet and unobtrusive! Here and there, huts and platforms invite the most curious to hide and observe them. The walk is both peaceful and exotic, as you make your way along a stilted path overlooking ponds and marshes. A unique walk!

Price: free.

Distance: 1.5 kilometers.

Duration: 1 hour.

Difficulty: easy.

Distance : 12,5 km

Duration : 3h30

Difficulty : Medium

This path invites you to a quiet interlude along the Hérault River, the Mediterranean Sea and the Canal du Midi. The protected area of Les Verdisses, a real green lung, covers 600 hectares. With a bit of luck, you will be able to see a European cistude, a small freshwater turtle, or the European bee-eater, a bird with remarkable colors.

Note: access to marker n°6 of the trail is possible if the Belle Isle park is open, otherwise you have to come back to the starting point after having reached marker n°5.

Distance : 8 ,5 km

Duration : The hike lasts2h45

Difficulty : Easy

Walk in the heart of the Verdisses area, a green setting towards the beaches and Adge.

This path starts near the campsite La Tama, the water tower and the bunkers which constituted the "Wall of the Mediterranean". It starts in the pine forest, continues to the pond, continues along the Canal du Midi, then through the vineyards, and reveals a ranch. Do not miss the visit of the bunker 638. It is a collection of images, scents and colors for everyone to enjoy.

You don't have to be a member to take part in one of the many hikes proposed by this cheerful team, whose program can be found online or in the local press. Membership is compulsory after the^3rd participation, after having tested the club's good atmosphere... One of the club's stated aims is clear: "To share steps and create social links". The website lists all the outings scheduled for the week and half-year, together with a list of essential equipment.