Tour of the Montagne Ardéchoise (Ardèche)

Starting from La Bastide-Puylaurent in Lozère, the trail follows the Allier River towards Laveyrune, then climbs towards Saint-Étienne-de-Lugdarès and the Plagnal plateau, crossing windswept high-altitude moors before reaching Lake Issarlès, a volcanic gem nestled in an ancient crater. The ascent to Mont Gerbier de Jonc, the source of the Loire River, marks the highest point of the journey, offering a 360° panorama of the region's basalt peaks. Descending via Lachamp-Raphaël, hikers traverse landscapes of peat bogs and summer pastures where biodiversity reigns supreme. Historical heritage is showcased by the Cistercian ruins of Mazan-l'Abbaye, before descending into the remote lands of the Col du Bez, Les Chambons, Loubaresse, and Montselgues. The path descends to Saint-Laurent-les-Bains, famous for its thermal waters, then to the Notre-Dame des Neiges Abbey.

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Distance: 243km, Elevation maximum: 1549m, Elevation minimum: 660m, Elevation gain uphill: 7349m
IGN Maps: Langogne (2737E). La Bastide-Puylaurent (2738E). Gerbier de Jonc Mezenc Vivarais (2836OT). Lac d'Issarles Thueyts Sources de la Loire (2837OT). Largentiere la Bastide-Puylaurent Vivarais Cevenol (2838OT). Vals-les-Bains (2937O).

La Bastide-Puylaurent: L'Etoile Guest House, 06 83 99 70 86, Email Former resort Hotel built in 1926 in the architectural style typical of the "Roaring Twenties", L'Etoile Guest house is a mountain retreat in the South of France. Beautiful park along the Allier River. Bedrooms are spacious and comfortable. Private parking. Many Hiking loops. Private parking during your hike.