5 walks to enjoy spring in Carladès !

The sun is out, the temperatures are a bit warmer and nature is awakening after the Winter months. It’s time to get out and about and enjoy the fresh air. The mountain summits are still difficult to access at the beginning of Spring, but make the most of the good weather and have a look at our five great ideas for walks in different parts of Cantal’s great volcano.

The Pas de Cère – Thiézac

Whatever the time of year, the Pas de Cère Gorges are a great place to visit and a popular walk. A colourful one too, with the beautiful Spring flowers in the fields and the brightly coloured parasols placed along the way! Under them you’ll find different clues for you to play detective and solve the “Mystery at the Grand Hotel”! The whole family will enjoy this walk and the scenery when you arrive at the gorges is wonderful!

Practical information: An easy walk suitable for all the family – 45 minute walk there and back from Salavanhac on the outskirts of Vic sur Cère.

Autour du Donjon – Polminhac

This walk begins along a woodland path where you’ll love the sound of the wind in the trees and the leaves under your feet.  On arriving up at the plateau, you’ll be bowled over by the view over the Monts du Cantal mountain range. There might even be a bit of snow on the summits. While you’re in Polminhac, don’t forget to stop off and visit Pesteils Castle and admire its impressive keep.

Practical information: Estimated 2 hour walk, easy – Starting point from the village of Polminhac on the car park in front of the school.

La Porte du Lion – Thiézac

Everyone loves this walk, though for different reasons. If you’re keen on local heritage, then you’ll be delighted to visit the hamlet of Niervèze with its traditional buildings. If you’re a lover of nature, then the waterfall at Lafon and the wonderful view over the Puy Griou will be the high point of the walk. Then, if you’re interested in geology, the discovery of the Chaos de Casteltinet will be a moment to remember. A great trail that offers something for everyone to enjoy!

Practical information: Estimated 2 ½ hour walk for proficient walkers – Starting point from the hamlet of Lagoutte just outside Thiézac.

Du Petit Goul au Grand Goul – Saint Clément

This walk starts out from the village of St Clément and takes you up to the plateau. After a grassy path, you’ll cross a vast prairie full of daffodils in the Spring. Stop and admire the beautiful house at La Roussière. It’s now a Bed and Breakfast but it was also used to shoot a French thriller called “Harry, He’s here to help”. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might be lucky enough to see the fox that is known to venture onto the footpath.

Practical information: Estimated 3 hour walk for proficient walkers – Starting point from the square in front of the church in St Clément.

Le Château de Messilhac – Cros de Ronesque/Raulhac

If you’d like to head out walking for the day, then this trail could be just right. The 16 km walk starts out from the hamlet of Cros de Ronesque and there’s lots to take in along the way. You’ll cross the River Goul, have a unique view of Messilhac Castle, fall under the charm of the village of Raulhac and be impressed by the amazing view from the Ronesque rock table. There’s no end of things to discover on this trail and  also some lovely spots to stop and picnic!

Practical information: Estimated 5 hour walk for experienced walkers – Starting point from Cros de Ronesque (also possible from Raulhac)

Detailed information on all these walks to discover the Carladès area can be downloaded here.

You will also find them on the Cirkwi App on your smartphone.

par Noémie
le 28 March 2018