The Stevenson trail in the Cévennes

Discover the Stevenson trail in the Cévennes

In addition to his account of the fabulous hike undertaken by writer Robert Louis Stevenson at the end of the 19th century, this 12-stage trail through the mountains has survived to this day. The last section, dedicated to the Cévennes, is surely the most legendary of all, and also the most beautiful. In the heart of the ” blue mountains “, Stevenson’s route runs from Florac to Saint-Jean-du-Gard, via Cassagnas and Saint-Étienne-Vallée-Française, and corresponds to the GR70.

Our campsite is only a quarter of an hour from Stevenson’s finishing point at Saint-Jean-du-Gard. A 13th section has now been added to the route, as far as Alès, with just as many beautiful viewpoints. All in all, there are four stages of the Stevenson Trail within an hour’s radius of the campsite, offering a wide choice of itineraries for the whole family, depending on your level and the distance you wish to cover.

Rent a donkey for the Stevenson trail

To relive Stevenson’s adventure as closely as possible, don’t hesitate to ask the Tourist Office about hiking with a donkey. Renting a donkey gives a whole new dimension to walking, and above all it’s a great educational activity for children, who find in the donkey a gentle companion. Whether you’re on your own for several days or on a short, accompanied trip, a donkey will transform your experience of the Cévennes.

Family activities on the Stevenson trail

Following in Stevenson’s footsteps offers an unrivalled opportunity to discover the Cévennes. Its natural treasures, first and foremost, such as the Bougès crests, which offer a breathtaking view of the natural park at an altitude of over 1400m.

At Pont-de-Montvert, you’ll be overwhelmed by the strength of the stone that hugs the banks of the Tarn. The curious Cham des Bondons will also amaze you: challenge yourself to find the 154 menhirs scattered across this limestone plateau dominated by two round massifs!

Don’t hesitate to stop off and discover the local heritage: the collegiate church of Bédouès, its fully painted Saint-Saturnin chapel, and of course the superb Florac, in the very heart of the Cévennes. Take advantage of your visit to discover the feudal castle, the maze of narrow streets and the freshness of four rivers. Rivers mean swimming! There are several natural bathing sites in the Tarn: the official Florac lake, but also hidden treasures such as the Rocher des Fées.

And then, of course, there’s Anduze, where our campsite is located! It’s known as the Gateway to the Cevennes, and its authenticity is sure to win you over. A stroll through the historic center of this pottery town is a must to admire its original monuments. Extend your stroll to the Parc des Cordeliers, then hop on the old-fashioned steam train to Saint-Jean-du-Gard, or take a refreshing break at the Bambouseraie en Cévennes.