Guided cultural hike in France’s beautiful Albigeois region: Discover ancient caves, historic castles, extraordinary museums, and some of the country’s most beautiful villages as you trace the footsteps of the medieval Cathar knights in Southern France.
Join us on this unique nature and cultural adventure in Albigeois region! Take in the beautiful scenery and breathtaking views as you hike through the wild Aveyron gorges, the vast Causse plateau, the lush green Gaillacois vineyards and the deep forests of Grésigne. Visit the impressive Cathar castles and explore some of France's most beautiful villages, nestled in hills and mountains and defying the laws of nature, and experience one of the country's most diverse regions with its unique historic, architectural and culinary heritage!
Day 1: Arrival in Albi – Castelnau de Montmirail
Meeting point for this walking tour at 5 pm at the train station of Albi. You begin with a visit of the city, the cathedral Sainte Cécile and the museum Toulouse Lautrec. Finaly, you are brought to Castelnau de Montmirail , a wonderful village with colourful houses, where you will spend the night. Transfer 30 min.
Day 2: Vieux – Castelnau de Montmirail
Today, you go for a circular hike to the village Vieux. On the way, you will visit the church of the castle of Mayraques and walk through the vineyard of Gaillac. At the end of the day, you spend another night in Castelnau de Montmirail.
Duration: 3 to 4 h – Distance: 10-15 km / 7.4-9.3 mi – Difference in altitude: approx. 300 m
Day 3: Forest La Grésigne – Puycelsi
Short transfer to Puycelsi. The hike today leads you through the forest of La Grésigne back to the village Puycelsi with visit of this village full of history.
Duration: 4 h – Distance: 11 km / 7.4-9.3 mi – Difference in altitude: approx. 300 m
Day 4: Bruniquel - Castle of Montricoux
Transfer to Bruniquel also classified among the most villages in France. Loop along the banks of the Aveyron river with visit of the castle of Montricoux. Next to it, the Templar dungeon of Montricoux. Return to Bruniquel, a small medieval village in the Quercy region and visit of the castles of Bruniquel overlooking the Aveyron. Duration: 4 h – Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi – Difference in altitude: approx. 250 m- Transfer 50 min.
Day 5: Penne - Rocher de Suquets - Castle of Penne
Transfer to the charming medieval village of Penne d'Albigeois hanging on its rock. Loop through the Hameau d'Amiel offering a perspective view on the cliffs of the Aveyronet, then climb to the Rocher de Suquets to enjoy its magnificent viewpoint on the castle. Return to Penne, visit of its narrow streets and its castle, ultimate Cathar refuge. On the way back, stop at the ruins of the former Commandery of the Templars of Vaour
Duration: 3 to 4 h – Distance: 12 km / 7.4 mi – Difference in altitude: approx. 250 m- Transfer: 1 hour.
The day begins with a transfer to Cordes-sur-Ciel, a preserved treasure of the gothic design
Day 6: Albi
The day begins with a transfer to Albi (1 hour). Then visit of the city, the cathedral Sainte Cécile and the museum Toulouse Lautrec.Overnight in Albi.
Day 7: Departure
Breakfast in Albi and departure.
Indicated pricing per person in double room occupancy
Single room with additional fee: €359 depending on availability
*Our hiking programm begins and ends at the train station of Albi.
Your organise the arrival and return by yourself and extend your trip on your option.
For groups of 6 persons at least, we can arrange dates and contents for the trip.
Included:
6 nights in double bedroom, full board (picnic lunch), french licenced guide, carrying of the luggage, transfers according to the programm, entrance fees for the visits, visitor's tax.
Not included:
Travel to/from the train station of Albi, drinks, insurance in case of cancellation.
Can be booked by individual travellers!
Guaranteed departure: 5 persons (max. 15 persons)
Not accessible to persons with reduced mobility.
Last possibility of cancellation from the tour operator: 21 days before the beginning of the trip
5 nights in a 3-stars hotel, 1 night in a 3-stars hotel in Albi. Single room on request (additional fee: €+359)
Average duration of the hike: 3 to 4 hours a day. between 10 and 12 km (6.2 to 9 mi) a day with an approx. altitude of 250 m.
The paths goes on diverse lands without particular difficulties.
Luggage: You do not have to carry anything else than your belongings (Phone..) and the picnic lunch.
Walking with French people, an authentic experience!
French speaking licenced guide
For groups of 6 persons at least, we can arrange dates and content for the trip. An organised guided tour in english can also be set
We recommend you an eco-friendly journey with the train to Albi-Ville, the hometown of Toulouse-Lautrec.
You can find more information on our detailed info sheet, that we send you gladly on enquiry!