Stage 8 · Le Chemin du Puy
Espalion → Golinhac
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Espalion to Golinhac · 26.5 km · up 820 m, down 800 m
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
The day, stop by stop
- 0km
Espalion
villageA 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.
View town guideRestaurantCafeGroceryPharmacyATMBusClinicPost Office - 12.3km
Estaing
villageOne 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.
View town guideRestaurantCafe - 26.4km
Golinhac
villageA 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.
View town guideRestaurantCafe
Places to stay along this stage
Koala Picks first, then each town in walking order. Where a place does not book online, walk in, call or message them.
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Planning the Le Chemin du Puy?
Add this stage to your day by day plan and see how it fits with the stages around it. Day 0 is the night you arrive in Espalion. Choosing is never booking.