Camino & Pilgrimages
8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
8.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
This second section of Le Puy Way, one of the most scenic routes of the Camino de Santiago in France, leads you to the medieval gem of Conques over seven accessible stages. As you journey along this path, you will be captivated by the region's diverse and ever changing landscapes, a perfect invitation to unwind, disconnect, and rediscover the joy of walking.
Setting off from Aumont-Aubrac, the route begins across the gentle, pastoral highlands of the Aubrac plateau, a land of open skies, shimmering lakes, and iconic tawny Aubrac cows. Gradually, the scenery softens as you descend into the lush valleys of the Lot and the Dourdou, where peaceful rivers wind through picture-perfect villages and wooded hillsides.
Whether you are a seasoned walker or a newcomer to long distance trails, this stage of the Le Puy Way offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural discovery, and authentic French countryside charm.
TERRAIN
The route begins across the gentle, pastoral highlands of the Aubrac plateau. Gradually, the scenery softens as you descend into the valleys of the Lot. Accessible to long trail beginners.
Step back in time and discover a picturesque village that took shape around a priory established by the influential Barons of Peyre around the year 1000.
YOUR ACCOMMODATION
To reflect the spirit of the Pilgrimage, we carefully select welcoming, simple accommodation along the route. We offer stays in hotels and guest houses. While these stays may not offer the same level of luxury as our classic Headwater holidays, they provide genuine hospitality and a warm, friendly atmosphere.
You will enjoy private rooms and private bathrooms wherever possible, ensuring a restful night after a full day of walking. On the rare occasions when this cannot be arranged, we will let you know in advance.
Most of the properties we work with are small and family-run, and availability varies depending on how early you book. Full details of your stays will be provided closer to your departure date.
Beginning in Aumont-Aubrac, in the historic 'Terre de Peyre' or land of stone, the Way of St James, leads walkers through serene pine groves and open countryside before arriving at Prinsuejols, the welcoming gateway to the wild beauty of the Aubrac plateau.
Cross the vast Aubrac plateau, a sweeping landscape of endless pastures dotted with traditional burons, stone shepherds' huts that tell the story of this timeless land. This is the home of the world famous Laguiole knife, crafted in the very region that also produces the celebrated Laguiole cheese it was designed to slice.
Set off for the heart of the Aubrac plateau, where the age-old tradition of transhumance - the seasonal movement of cattle to summer pastures - is still very much alive. The lively Transhumance Festival, held each year around 25 May, celebrates this enduring rural heritage.
At lunchtime, food lovers can savour the authentic flavours of the region: creamy aligot, hearty mountain charcuterie, or a delicious porcini mushroom omelette, enjoyed in a rustic buron or a welcoming country inn. A true taste of Aubrac life awaits.
Start from the land of the 'Boraldes', the mountain streams that flow down from the Aubrac plateau and descend towards the picturesque Lot Valley at Saint-Come-d'Olt, one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France. The Pays d'Olt, named after the ancient name of the Lot River, bears the marks of its rich past. Throughout the region, you can still admire the historic stone bridges built centuries ago to help pilgrims on the Way of St James cross the river on their journey.
The Way of St James follows the Lot River to the charming medieval village of Estaing, famed for its annual Feast of Saint Fleuret every July. This vibrant celebration features a colourful procession with 150 costumed participants, including historic pilgrims.
Explore the impressive Chateau of the Counts of Estaing, set amidst the village, and cross the stunning 16th-century Gothic bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Estaing is a must visit stop on the Camino, offering rich history and breathtaking scenery in the heart of the Lot Valley.
Starting from the left bank of the Lot River, just before the hamlet of Montegut, the path climbs to an altitude of 666 metres before reaching the village of Golinhac.
Perched above the dramatic gorges of the Lot, Golinhac offers stunning views and rich heritage. Discover its charming semi-Gothic miroman church, dating from the 11th to the 16th centuries, and the distinctive stone cross featuring a finely sculpted pilgrim, a timeless symbol for those walking the Way of St James.
The final stage leads you to Conques, often a favourite among pilgrims. Descend through the steep-sided combe of the Ouche before arriving at the banks of the Dourdou River.
Explore Conques, a picturesque town crowned by the three towers of the Romanesque Abbey Church of Sainte-Foy, a medieval masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't miss the iconic pilgrims' bridge that spans the Dourdou.
Along the way, in Espeyrac, legend tells of a pilgrim blinded during an attack who miraculously regained his sight by invoking Conques' patron saint in 960.
Leave Conques and onward travels.
Enjoy exploring the town and consider an extra night before heading home.
These tour prices are per person, based on two people sharing.
Single supplement from $404.
From London to Aumont-Aubrac via Paris
From Paris to Aumont-Aubrac
Departure from Conques
Return to London
Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.
Camino & Pilgrimages
8 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
8.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
