Hiking guides and maps on the GR®70
GR®70 – The Stevenson Trail
The GR®70, often simply called the Stevenson Trail, is an invitation to escape. Imagine following in the footsteps of a famous writer, Robert Louis Stevenson, accompanied by his donkey, Modestine, through breathtaking landscapes. It’s a promise of freedom and discovery with every step. Prepare yourself for this adventure that will remain etched in your memory!
The Stevenson Trail, the traces of a legendary journey
The GR®70, The Stevenson Trail, is a route unlike any other. This legendary trail takes its name from the Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson. In 1878, he crossed these landscapes with his faithful donkey, Modestine, an experience he recounted in his book “Travels with a Donkey in the Cévennes.” It is thanks to him that this route has become so famous. The trail connects Le Puy-en-Velay in Haute-Loire to Alès in Gard.
The Stevenson Trail stretches for approximately 272 km. Most walkers do it from north to south, that is, from Puy-en-Velay to Alès. This is the historical direction, Stevenson’s, and it allows for a leisurely descent southward. To complete the entire route on foot, generally allow between 12 and 15 days. If you dream of completing the Stevenson Trail in 1 week, you will have to select a portion or walk at a very brisk pace. The GR70 is a mid-mountain trail, so expect a certain cumulative elevation gain. The stages are varied, with regular climbs and descents, and the highest point is located on Mont Lozère. Remember to carefully examine the Stevenson Trail map, the GR70 map, or an FFRP guidebook before setting off to best prepare your route.
The essentials of the GR®70
The GR®70 immerses you in incredible landscapes and regions rich in history. Each day brings its share of discoveries:
- Le Puy-en-Velay : This is the starting point for many pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela. Its Notre-Dame Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is simply magnificent. The city’s atmosphere, blending history and spirituality, captivates you from the very beginning.
- Le Monastier-sur-Gazeille : This is Stevenson’s true starting point. You can visit the abbey and a museum dedicated to the writer to better understand his journey.
- Pradelles : A village of character, among the most beautiful in Haute-Loire, with breathtaking views.
- La Margeride : Here, you’ll cross granite plateaus and immense pine forests. It’s a wild and very authentic region.
- Chaseradès : A small village with a mountain feel, ideal for a relaxing break.
- Mont Lozère : The highest point of your hike. Its vast moors and granite landscapes offer breathtaking panoramas.
- Le Pont de Montvert : A charming, very typical Cévennes village and an important site during the Wars of Religion.
- Florac : This is the main town in the Cévennes and a gateway to the Cévennes National Park. Take the opportunity to discover this unique region, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Saint-Jean-du-Gard : This is where Stevenson ended his adventure with Modestine. A symbolic place for anyone who has read his book.
- Alès : This is the official end of the GR®70. A pleasant town to celebrate the completion of your hike.
Along the way, you’ll cross the Cévennes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You might be lucky enough to spot local animals, such as sheep (the stars of the Cévennes!) or even birds of prey. The atmosphere is special, a blend of culture, literary memories, and wild nature. A truly unique experience. Remember that walking the Stevenson Trail mile after mile is a total immersion. And why not, like Stevenson, do it with a donkey?
Routes connected to the GR®70
The GR®70 – Stevenson Trail isn’t limited to its own route on the GR map. It connects with other major hikes in France. If you’re interested in continuing your adventure or exploring other areas, here are some ideas:
- The GR®65 – Way of St. James – Via Podiensis : Starting from Le Puy-en-Velay, the GR®70 shares its starting point with the famous GR®65. You could therefore begin your pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela or simply discover its first few kilometers.
- The GR®4 – Mediterranean Trail : This GR crosses the Stevenson Trail in Lozère. It can take you to the Mediterranean or allow you to explore the Massif Central in greater depth.
- The GR®7 – Crossing the Massif Central : The GR®7 meets the GR®70 at several points along the route. This is an excellent option if you want to discover other facets of the Massif Central and its mid-mountain landscapes.
These connections are ideal for varying your walking pleasures. They offer you endless opportunities to discover even more treasures in the French regions. So, ready to lace up your shoes and set off on these paths that are just waiting for you!