19.5 km | 6-9 hours | +1302m / -1229m
The path descends into the spectacular Allier gorge, dropping steeply to the river before climbing back out through dense woodland. The gorge is one of the wildest landscapes in the Massif Central, with the river carving through dark basalt rock far below.
Watch for the ruined medieval fortress above the village of Monistrol-d'Allier, perched dramatically on the gorge edge. The chapel of the Madeleine, carved into the cliff face, dates from the 12th century.
Saugues is a small market town that was the gateway to the Gevaudan, a region terrorised in the 1760s by a mysterious beast (La Bete du Gevaudan) that killed over 100 people. A statue of the beast stands in the town square.
Terrain: Steep gorge descents and climbs, rocky forest trails, exposed plateau, village cobblestones
A small village perched above the Allier gorge with a gite, cafes, and views over the volcanic Auvergne landscape. The first overnight stop on Le Chemin du Puy.
A dramatic village at the bottom of the Allier gorge between Saint-Privat-d'Allier and Saugues. The steep descent and ascent on either side make it one of the most memorable stretches of Le Chemin du Puy.
A small Auvergne town with a medieval tower, gites, hotels, and full services. Known locally for the legend of the Beast of Gevaudan, a mysterious creature that terrorised the region in the 18th century.
0 places to stay between Saint-Privat-d'Allier and Saugues
Accommodation at the start of this stage (useful for booking the night before)
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Accommodation at the end of this stage
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