Stage 8 of 29

Espalion → Golinhac

26.5 km | 8-11 hours | +1484m / -1191m

About This Stage

The path climbs steeply from the Lot valley through Estaing, classified as one of France's Plus Beaux Villages. The medieval castle overlooking the river and the Gothic bridge are picture-perfect. The Estaing family produced a president of France (Valery Giscard d'Estaing).

The ascent after Estaing is steep and sustained, climbing through chestnut and oak forest onto the Rouergue highlands. The views back over the Lot valley become increasingly spectacular as you gain altitude.

Golinhac is a small hilltop village with wide views over the surrounding countryside. The 15th-century church has a fine bell tower visible from a distance.

Terrain: Steep valley climbs, ridge walking, forested descents, rural lanes, some exposed plateau

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Elevation Profile

Things Along the Way

Espalion0 km from startStart

A charming riverside town on the Lot with a Renaissance chateau, medieval bridge, and tanning quarter. One of the more substantial towns in the Aveyron section of Le Chemin du Puy.

Village
Has Albergue
Has Atm
Has Bus
Has Cafe
Has Clinic
Has Grocery
Has Hotel
Has Pharmacy
Has Post Office
Has Restaurant
Has Tobacconist
Outdoor Attraction
Estaing12.5 km from start

One of the 'Plus Beaux Villages de France', set at the confluence of the Lot and Coussanne rivers with a medieval chateau and Gothic bridge. A UNESCO-listed stop on the pilgrimage routes.

Village
Has Albergue
Has Cafe
Has Hotel
Has Restaurant
Outdoor Attraction
Golinhac26.5 km from startEnd

A small village above the deep Gorges du Lot in the Aveyron, with the gite d'etape L'Oree du Chemin in a restored barn. An epicerie and cafe are 2 km away in the village centre.

Village
Has Albergue
Has Cafe
Has Restaurant
Outdoor Attraction

Tips for This Stage

Accommodation between Espalion and Golinhac

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Stay in Espalion

Stage Start

Accommodation at the start of this stage (useful for booking the night before)

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Stay in Golinhac

Stage End

Accommodation at the end of this stage

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Stage 8: Espalion to Golinhac - Le Chemin du Puy - Camino Koala