Dossier de presse ANGLAIS 19-2013.indd - Lozère
Dossier de presse ANGLAIS 19-2013.indd - Lozère
Dossier de presse ANGLAIS 19-2013.indd - Lozère
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PRESS PACK 2013<br />
Lozère,<br />
the appeal of a region<br />
lozere-tourisme.com
1<br />
Contents<br />
Map of Lozère<br />
And area classified as World Humanity Heritage site .......................................................................................................................................................... Page 2<br />
World Humanity Heritage ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Pages 3 to 17<br />
• Causses and Cévennes, classified sites ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ page 3<br />
• Pastoralism and agro-pastoralism ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. page 4<br />
• Local dishes and expertise ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... page 5<br />
• Cévennes National Park ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ pages 6 to 7<br />
• Commercial activities in the area ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... page 8<br />
• Gorges du Tarn, la Jonte and Causses ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... page 9<br />
• Remarkable and conserved heritage ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... page 10<br />
• Respectful tourism .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... page 11<br />
• Traditional local festivals ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ page 12<br />
• "Causses and Cévennes" ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ pages 13 to 15<br />
• In the steps of Urbain V : a Papal stroll in Lozère ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... page 16<br />
• "Causses and Cévennes" ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... page 17<br />
Lozère un<strong>de</strong>r the microscope ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Pages 18 to 25<br />
• Appeal of a region ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... page 18<br />
• Breath... first and foremost ! ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ page <strong>19</strong><br />
• Young French Mountain Biker Trophy ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... page 20<br />
• Listed accommodation ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... pages 21 to 22<br />
• Walks ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... pages 23 to 24<br />
• Industrial tourism, an alternative view of the region ............................................................................................................................................................................................. page 25<br />
Family ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Pages 26 to 33<br />
• Promoting nature ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... pages 26 to 27<br />
• Husky ri<strong>de</strong>s at Mas <strong>de</strong> la Barque ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. page 28<br />
• Fairytale walks with children .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. page 29<br />
• The Legend of the Gévaudan Beast ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ page 30<br />
• Must-visit family outings .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... pages 31 to 32<br />
• Family outings up high ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. page 33<br />
Motorbike trails ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Pages 34 to 38<br />
• 243 km looped circuit ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ page 34<br />
• Cévenol and the Lot Valley ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. page 35<br />
• The splendour of the Gorges du Tarn – Motorbike stopover ...................................................................................................................................................................... page 36<br />
• Gorges du Tarn and Dourbie .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. page 37<br />
• Enduro ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... page 38<br />
Camping-Cars ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ Pages 39<br />
• Camping-car trail full of discovery ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ page 39<br />
Biking and mountain biking .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Pages 40 to 42<br />
• Mountain biking in Lozère ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. pages 40 to 41<br />
• Tourism by bike ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... page 42<br />
Events .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Pages 43 to 48<br />
• Festivals ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ pages 43 to 48<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
Tarn<br />
2<br />
Viaduc <strong>de</strong> Garabit<br />
Bruxelles<br />
Paris<br />
Clermont-Ferrand<br />
Mont Mouchet<br />
St-Privat-du-Fau Paulhac-en-Margeri<strong>de</strong><br />
Chaulhac<br />
Julianges<br />
Albaret<br />
Ste-Marie<br />
St-Léger-du-Malzieu<br />
Chau<strong>de</strong>s Aigues<br />
Bès<br />
Gorges du Bès<br />
Albaret-le-Comtal<br />
La Gar<strong>de</strong><br />
Aire <strong>de</strong> la Lozère<br />
Arzenc<br />
32<br />
Les Monts-Verts<br />
N9<br />
Blavignac<br />
LE MALZIEU-VILLE<br />
St-Pierre<br />
le-Vieux<br />
Prunières<br />
Le Malzieu<br />
Forain<br />
Gar<strong>de</strong>le<br />
Mialanes<br />
Lajo<br />
Chambon-le-Château<br />
St-Symphorien<br />
L’Aubrac<br />
Terre<strong>de</strong>Basalte<br />
Recoules d’Aubrac<br />
Fer à cheval<br />
Les gorges<br />
du Tarn,<br />
<strong>de</strong> la Jonte,<br />
grands causses<br />
et vallée du Lot<br />
Terre<strong>de</strong>Calcaire<br />
Lac <strong>de</strong>s Salhiens<br />
Lac <strong>de</strong> Souverols<br />
St-Juéry<br />
Chauchailles<br />
La Chal<strong>de</strong>tte<br />
Grandvals<br />
NASBINALS<br />
Viaduc<br />
<strong>de</strong> Millau<br />
Lac <strong>de</strong> St-Andéol<br />
le Bès<br />
42<br />
44.1<br />
Aubrac<br />
Rimeize<br />
Malbouzon<br />
Marchastel<br />
FOURNELS<br />
Lac <strong>de</strong> Born<br />
Termes<br />
La Fage-St-Julien<br />
St-Laurent-<strong>de</strong>-Veyrès<br />
La Fage<br />
Montivernoux<br />
Monts d’Aubrac<br />
La-Chaze-<strong>de</strong>-Peyre<br />
Ste-Colombe-<strong>de</strong>-P eyre<br />
Lac du Moulinet<br />
Rioulong<br />
Les Bessons<br />
Prinsuéjols<br />
La Védrinelle<br />
La Blatte<br />
Le Buisson<br />
37<br />
38<br />
36<br />
Crueize<br />
33<br />
Antrenas<br />
Les Détroits<br />
Pas <strong>de</strong> soucy<br />
Les Vignes<br />
35<br />
Triboulin<br />
34<br />
Rimeize<br />
Tarn<br />
Gorges <strong>de</strong> la Jonte<br />
Truyère<br />
Javols<br />
Chabannes<br />
Fontans<br />
Serverette<br />
Lachamp<br />
Servières<br />
Gorges<br />
du Tarn<br />
Sainte-Eulalie<br />
ST-ALBAN<br />
SUR-LIMAGNOLE<br />
St-Gal<br />
Lac <strong>de</strong> Ganivet<br />
Colagne<br />
Ribennes<br />
Colagnet<br />
Margeri<strong>de</strong><br />
St-Denis-en-Margeri<strong>de</strong><br />
Les Laubies<br />
Etang<br />
<strong>de</strong> Bonnecombe<br />
MARVEJOLS<br />
Montrodat<br />
Gabrias<br />
Chirac<br />
COL DE BONNECOMBE Les Salces<br />
Palhers<br />
Les Hermaux<br />
39<br />
Grèzes<br />
Combret<br />
le Monastier<br />
Barjac<br />
N88<br />
Trélans<br />
Pin-Moriès<br />
St-Bonnet-<strong>de</strong>-Chirac<br />
ST-GERMAIN<br />
Cultures<br />
N88<br />
St-Pierre DU-TEIL<br />
Le Bruel<br />
Alteyrac<br />
<strong>de</strong> Nogaret<br />
Montjézieu Les salelles<br />
Esclanè<strong>de</strong><br />
Bramonas<br />
Ressouches<br />
le Villard<br />
Auxillac<br />
CHANAC<br />
Banassac<br />
40<br />
LA CANOURGUE<br />
Golf<br />
Canilhac<br />
N88<br />
Champerboux<br />
Causse <strong>de</strong> Sauveterre<br />
St-Saturnin<br />
Sabot<br />
41<br />
<strong>de</strong> Malepeyre<br />
La Tieule<br />
La Capelle<br />
Le Recoux<br />
LE MASSEGROS<br />
St-Rome-<strong>de</strong>-Dolan<br />
Le Rozier<br />
ST-CHÉLY<br />
D’APCHER<br />
St-Georges<br />
<strong>de</strong>-Lévejac<br />
Le Truel<br />
A75 AUTOROUTE GRATUITE<br />
Cirque <strong>de</strong>s Baumes<br />
Les Douzes<br />
AUMONT<br />
AUBRAC<br />
St-Pierre-<strong>de</strong>s-Tripiers<br />
La Malène<br />
Hyelzas<br />
La Para<strong>de</strong><br />
SAINTE-ÉNIMIE<br />
Le Mazel<br />
Balsièges<br />
Truyère<br />
N106<br />
Vallée du Lot<br />
Tarn<br />
Causse Méjean<br />
Gorges <strong>de</strong> la Jonte<br />
Baraque<br />
<strong>de</strong>s Bouviers<br />
Estables<br />
Le Chastel-Nouve l<br />
Laval-du-Tarn<br />
Pra<strong>de</strong>s<br />
Castelbouc<br />
St-Chély-du-Tarn<br />
Blajoux<br />
Château<br />
<strong>de</strong>-la-Caze Le Mas-St-Chély<br />
UNESCO<br />
Les Causses et les Cévennes<br />
ZONE UNESCO<br />
ZONE CŒUR<br />
ZONE PÉRIPHÉRIQUE<br />
Hures<br />
ST-AMANS<br />
MENDE<br />
MEYRUEIS<br />
St-Bauzile<br />
c<br />
Mont Chabrio<br />
Gatuzières<br />
Roquedols<br />
Jonte<br />
Ance<br />
Chapeauroux<br />
Bouisset<br />
Chayla-d’Ance<br />
La Villedieu<br />
N88<br />
St-Paul-le-Froid<br />
Roc <strong>de</strong> Fenestre<br />
1485 m<br />
St-Sauveur-<strong>de</strong>-Ginestoux<br />
Col <strong>de</strong><br />
Montmirat<br />
Quézac<br />
Montbrun<br />
Plateau<br />
du Roy<br />
La Panouse<br />
N106<br />
Crouzet-Chaffol<br />
Laval-Atger<br />
Col <strong>de</strong> la<br />
Pierre Plantée<br />
Val d’Allier<br />
Signal <strong>de</strong> Randon Arzenc-<strong>de</strong>-Randon<br />
CHATEAUNEUF<br />
DE-RANDON<br />
Lac <strong>de</strong> Charpal<br />
Badaroux<br />
La Salle-Prunet<br />
St-Maurice-<strong>de</strong>-Ventalon<br />
St-Andéol-<strong>de</strong>-<br />
St-Juliend’Arpaon<br />
Clerguemort<br />
Montagne du Bougè s<br />
St-Privat<strong>de</strong>-Vallongu<strong>de</strong>-Ventalon<br />
St-Frézal-<br />
N106<br />
Cassagnas<br />
St-Julien<strong>de</strong>s-Points<br />
Col <strong>de</strong> Faïsses<br />
Col <strong>de</strong> Jalcreste<br />
St-Hilaire-<strong>de</strong>-Lavit<br />
BARRE-DES-CÉVENNES St-André-<strong>de</strong>-Lancize<br />
Plan <strong>de</strong> Fontmort<br />
St-Michel<strong>de</strong>-Dèz<strong>de</strong>-Dèze<br />
Le Collet-<br />
ST-GERMAIN<br />
DE-CALBERTE<br />
St-Martin-<strong>de</strong>-<br />
Molezon<br />
Lansuscle<br />
Col <strong>de</strong> Prentigar<strong>de</strong><br />
Tour du canourgue<br />
St-Martin-<strong>de</strong>-Boubaux<br />
Le Pompidou<br />
Ste-Croix-<br />
Vallée-Française<br />
Gabriac<br />
Bassurels<br />
Moissac-<br />
Vallée-Française St-Étienne-Vallée-Française<br />
Fraissinet-<strong>de</strong>-<br />
Fourques<br />
Lanuéjols<br />
Brenoux<br />
Ispagnac<br />
Pelouse<br />
Le Born<br />
Ste-Hélène<br />
FLORAC<br />
St-Laurent-<strong>de</strong>-Trèves<br />
Cabrillac<br />
Vébron<br />
Rousses<br />
Mont-Aigoua l<br />
GRANDRIEU<br />
Laubert<br />
Les Bondons<br />
Cocurès<br />
Allenc<br />
Chapeauroux<br />
Le Villeret<br />
Larzalier<br />
Roc <strong>de</strong>s Laubies<br />
N88<br />
Mont Lozère<br />
Casca<strong>de</strong> <strong>de</strong> Runes<br />
Fraissinet<strong>de</strong>-Lozère<br />
Chemin Stevenson GR 70<br />
St-Bonnet-<strong>de</strong>-Montauroux<br />
Condres<br />
Auroux<br />
Chastanier<br />
Chau<strong>de</strong>yrac<br />
Allier<br />
Source du Lot<br />
LE BLEYMARD<br />
N88<br />
Fontanes<br />
Le Puy<br />
Naussac<br />
St-Etienne<br />
Lyon<br />
Lac <strong>de</strong> Naussac<br />
LANGOGNE<br />
Rocles<br />
Cheylard-l’Evêque<br />
Tarn<br />
LE PONT DE<br />
MONTVERT<br />
Langouyoux<br />
Montbel<br />
Le Moure<br />
<strong>de</strong> la Gardille<br />
Chazeaux<br />
St-Frézal-d’Albuge s<br />
Belvezet<br />
Mas d’Orcières<br />
Montagne<br />
du Goulet<br />
Cubières<br />
Cubiérettes<br />
Altier<br />
Mont-Lozèr e<br />
Source<br />
du Tarn<br />
Parc national <strong>de</strong>s Cévennes<br />
St-Flour-<strong>de</strong>-Mercoire<br />
Chasseradés<br />
Luc<br />
Etang du Béal<br />
Puylaurent<br />
Pic Cassini<br />
Soleyrols<br />
Fau<strong>de</strong>-Peyre<br />
St-Jeanla-Fouillouse<br />
Roc <strong>de</strong>-Peyre<br />
Recoules<strong>de</strong>-Fumas<br />
N9<br />
St-Sauveur<strong>de</strong>-Peyre<br />
St-Laurent<strong>de</strong>-Muret<br />
St-Léger<strong>de</strong>-Peyre<br />
Rieutort<strong>de</strong>-Randon<br />
St-Étiennedu-Valdonnez<br />
Cha<strong>de</strong>net<br />
Bagnolsles-Bains<br />
St-Juliendu-Tournel<br />
La-Basti<strong>de</strong>-<br />
Puylaurent<br />
Chassezac<br />
Altier<br />
Pourcharesses<br />
Gardon<br />
Lac <strong>de</strong> Villefort<br />
Belvédère <strong>de</strong>s Bouzè<strong>de</strong>s<br />
Retenue<br />
<strong>de</strong> Roujanel<br />
Prévenchères<br />
Montpellier<br />
St-Jean-Chazorne<br />
La-Gar<strong>de</strong>-Guérin<br />
Planchamp<br />
Pied-<strong>de</strong>-Borne<br />
St-André-Capcèze<br />
Corniche <strong>de</strong>s cévennes<br />
St-Roman-<strong>de</strong>-Tousque<br />
Vialas<br />
VILLEFORT<br />
St Jean du Gard<br />
La Margeri<strong>de</strong><br />
Terre<strong>de</strong>Granit<br />
Les Cévennes et<br />
le Mont-Lozère<br />
Terres<strong>de</strong>Schisteet<br />
Granit<br />
N106<br />
Alès<br />
Nîmes<br />
In Europa<br />
Languedoc-Roussillon<br />
Region<br />
www.lozere-tourisme.com<br />
01
3<br />
World<br />
Humanity Heritage Site<br />
Causses and Cévennes, listed heritage sites<br />
Causses and Cévennes have been listed World<br />
Humanity Heritage sites since 2011, pursuant to the<br />
International Convention on the protection of natural<br />
and cultural heritage.<br />
Listing of these sites into the category of evolving<br />
and living cultural landscapes is international<br />
recognition of an area which has been shaped by a<br />
thousand years of agro-pastoralism.<br />
Causses and Cévennes,<br />
genuine nature<br />
The heritage at Causses and Cévennes is a natural<br />
setting where mankind has patiently shaped these<br />
Mediterranean landscapes. This is a mineral setting<br />
where shale, granite and chalk come together to<br />
shape the plateaus, caves, hills and valleys.<br />
Caussenards and Cévenols, who<br />
for several centuries have been<br />
involved in agro-pastoralism, bear<br />
witness to the agricultural history<br />
which<br />
is one of a kind in this<br />
exceptional setting. This history<br />
rests on ancestral expertise and<br />
formidable constructions. This<br />
preserved area, partially covered<br />
by<br />
the Cévennes National<br />
Park and the Grands Causses<br />
Regional National Park, spans<br />
two regions, Languedoc-<br />
Roussillon and the Midi<br />
Pyrénées<br />
The <strong>de</strong>velopment of labels of quality, notably for<br />
cheese and meat production, showcases a living and<br />
contemporary agro-pastoralism. Marked paths are<br />
propitious for romantic walks in nature, or for strolls<br />
with family and friends, across the won<strong>de</strong>rfully<br />
scented paths in the South of France : the GR7<br />
around Mont Aiguoual, the Saint-Guilhem pathway,<br />
the GR70 known as Stevenson’s Pathway, i<strong>de</strong>al for<br />
donkey ri<strong>de</strong>s, the GR700 or the Régordane Pathway,<br />
and the GR6 which will take you from Cévennes to<br />
the scrublands. Step by step, you will discover some<br />
exceptional flora and fauna. Across the entire pathway,<br />
whether on foot, bicycle, or horseback, you will be<br />
given the warmest of welcomes. Other activities<br />
will allow you to discover these landscapes, such as<br />
paragliding, climbing, canoeing or swimming.<br />
For further information please visit :<br />
www.caussesetcevennes.com<br />
Located at the heart of Europe, this vast area covering<br />
a total of 3,000 km2 from the south of the Massif<br />
Central leading to the Mediterranean. In France,<br />
this was the first area as vast to be listed as a World<br />
Heritage site.<br />
• 2 Regions : Languedoc-Roussillon, Midi-Pyrénées<br />
• 4 Departments : Aveyron, Gard, Hérault and Lozère<br />
• 134 Communes<br />
Map of situation Limestone<br />
plateaus and Cevennes<br />
UNESCO world heritage<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
4<br />
World<br />
Humanity Heritage Site<br />
Causses and Cévennes, listed heritage sites<br />
Pastoralism is <strong>de</strong>fined as a system of farming which,<br />
in large part, uses the immediate vegetal resources<br />
for pasturing, more often than not in an extensive<br />
manner, either on the farmland itself, or in the<br />
framework of migration or nomadism.<br />
Agro-pastoralism is a form of pastoralism which<br />
combines raising cattle on areas of land where cattle<br />
feed and cereals are produced for feeding.<br />
A living conservational area<br />
Four major types of farming can be seen in this<br />
area. In Causses, you will primarily find sheep bred<br />
for milking and meat production. Sheep and goats<br />
are raised alongsi<strong>de</strong> each other in Cévennes whilst<br />
sheep and cattle fill the landscape of Mont Lozère.<br />
Across the entire area, during the summer, do not<br />
be surprised to find migrating sheep herds. It is<br />
thanks to these various types of breeding that the<br />
landscape is presented to us as it is today.<br />
Les estives et terrains <strong>de</strong> parcours<br />
Les troupeaux transhumants et rési<strong>de</strong>nts se nourrissent<br />
en parcourant <strong>de</strong> gran<strong>de</strong>s étendues, appelées estives et<br />
parcours.<br />
They all lead towards opening up the natural setting<br />
and biological diversity (flora, fauna, etc.). They<br />
largely contribute towards the local economy. The<br />
breeds of sheep which are particularly well adapted<br />
to the area are Lacaune, Raïole, Caussenar<strong>de</strong> <strong>de</strong>s<br />
Garrigues and Blanche du Massif Central, as well<br />
as Mountain Goats, and Aubrac cattle which all go<br />
towards a wealth of traditional breeds.<br />
Pastoralism and agro-pastoralism<br />
The Drailles, migration itineraries<br />
These are the itineraries used by cattle and herds<br />
when moving to find new grazing pastures and water<br />
at altitu<strong>de</strong> when these resources are no longer<br />
available in the plains in summer. Some ravines<br />
and waterways required the construction of « cattle<br />
bridges » to facilitate the movement of farmers<br />
and their herds. Many Drailles have today become<br />
walking routes.<br />
Goat Migration Festival on 8 June in Ayres<br />
Each year, in June, there is a long and won<strong>de</strong>rful<br />
procession of herds of sheep in their migration<br />
towards the Mont-Lozère. In or<strong>de</strong>r to better discover<br />
this pastoral and agricultural heritage, a festival is<br />
due to take place on Saturday 8 June in Ayres, in the<br />
Lozère Cévennes, for the third consecutive year.<br />
This festival has become a tradition thanks to a<br />
small group of volunteers, comprising farmers,<br />
resi<strong>de</strong>nts of Ayres, the Galeizon valley, Calbertois<br />
and the Longue valley, as well as the support of the<br />
Cœur <strong>de</strong>s Cévennes Tourist Office, and last but by no<br />
means least the Cévennes National Park.<br />
For the safety of the herds and the smooth running<br />
of events, dogs are not allowed when accompanying<br />
the herds as well as on all festival areas.<br />
Coeur <strong>de</strong>s Cévennes Tourist Office : 0033(0)4 66 45 40 71<br />
The Lavognes<br />
These basins, which are often circular, whether or<br />
not hand-ma<strong>de</strong>, are used to collect rain water thanks<br />
to the installation of an impermeable layer (clay or<br />
shale). They are then used as drinking areas for<br />
herds and form, in their own right, part of the large<br />
ecological heritage.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
5<br />
World<br />
Humanity Heritage Site<br />
Causses and Cévennes, listed heritage sites<br />
Local dishes and expertise<br />
Several national labels and classifications (AOC), as<br />
well as European classifications (IGP, AOP) showcase<br />
the high quality of the local agro-pastoral produce,<br />
in relation to the farming methods, species used and<br />
traditional breeds.<br />
There are incomparable meats such as Lozère Lamb,<br />
Aubrac Beef and also fragrant cheeses, Causses blue<br />
cheese and Pélardon.<br />
The people from Causses and Cévennes have a long<br />
tradition of believing in the virtues of natural local<br />
resources.<br />
Beyond this traditional knowhow and expertise,<br />
farmers should have wi<strong>de</strong>spread technical knowledge<br />
in various domains as well as being proactive and<br />
having an acute sense of observation. This is a<br />
complete and <strong>de</strong>manding profession, which requires<br />
lengthy and patient learning, as well as a real<br />
passion.<br />
Jean-Christophe Barthes's portrait<br />
Jean-Christophe Barthes was born in Montpellier<br />
and has always loved spending his holidays in Lozère<br />
at Ispagnac and in Cévennes, where his <strong>de</strong>ep love of<br />
the Cévennes National Park grew. After studies in<br />
Agronomy, he established a school transport company<br />
which allowed him to see that city school children do<br />
not have knowledge of the origins of basic foodstuffs,<br />
such as cheese. At 28 years old, he sold his transport<br />
company so as to buy an old farm across some 25 ha<br />
close to Florac which had been abandoned for some<br />
20 years. La Borie is a typical farm, at the heart of the<br />
Cévennes National Park, a magical location nestled<br />
at an altitu<strong>de</strong> of some 800 metres and sufficiently<br />
isolated, without being too much so. In <strong>19</strong>98 Jean-<br />
Christophe Barthes set up with 10-20 goats and<br />
began manufacturing Organic Pélardon.Today, his<br />
herd comprises some 150 goats and a handful of billy<br />
goats and each year around thirty or so kids are born,<br />
which allows his stock of goats to expand.<br />
His team is involved in organic agriculture and<br />
focuses on Pélardon production, an AOC classified<br />
goat’s cheese, as well as goat’s and cow’s milk tomme<br />
cheese, and yoghurt and pasteurised milk. Production<br />
is controlled and certified « organic » by Ecocert.<br />
His herd allows him to produce between 600 and<br />
800 Pélardon cheeses per day, and his objective is to<br />
produce 1000 cheeses. Jean-Christophe, although an<br />
avid lover of nature, does not rest on his laurels and<br />
he also runs a guest house on site and a restaurant.<br />
At La Borie, guests can opt to stay in the guest house<br />
or a gite. Guests are all welcomed as friends and can<br />
come to live amongst the farm stock, take part in<br />
milking, learn how to produce cheese, make bread or<br />
simply relax.<br />
In 2010, Jean-Christophe also bought out the « Chez<br />
les paysans » restaurant in Florac where farm produce<br />
is served up. In future, he also hopes to increase the<br />
number of guest rooms and <strong>de</strong>velop an area to host<br />
school farm visits. La Borie and the<br />
farm is certified with the «Bienvenue<br />
à la ferme», «Accueil à la ferme»<br />
and «Cévennes écotourisme» quality<br />
labels.<br />
Contact : FERME <strong>de</strong> LA BORIE<br />
48400 SALLE PRUNET<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 45 10 90<br />
E-mail :<br />
ferme-auberge-la-borie@orange.fr<br />
Website : www.encevennes.com<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
6<br />
World<br />
Humanity Heritage Site<br />
Causses and Cévennes, listed heritage sites<br />
Cévennes National Park<br />
Cévennes National Park<br />
has some of the most<br />
magnificent landscapes spanning the Lozère,<br />
the Gard and the Ardèche regions of France. With<br />
shale, clay and granite being ever present four major<br />
types of landscape can be distinguished due to their<br />
particular relief, climate, heritage, and use of space<br />
: Mont-Lozère and Bougès ; the Cévennes valleys,<br />
the Causse Méjean and its caves ; and the Massif <strong>de</strong><br />
l’Aigoual. In or<strong>de</strong>r to visit this natural and cultural<br />
heritage in a relaxing and laid back manner, you can<br />
enjoy some of the 5000 km of marked itineraries on<br />
foot, bicycle or horseback, as well as visiting the<br />
many eco-museums. These museums are inten<strong>de</strong>d<br />
to manage biodiversity, conserve the character of<br />
landscapes and culture and promote sustainable<br />
<strong>de</strong>velopment which notably involves ensuring quality<br />
tourism.<br />
Nature Festival<br />
The Cévennes National Park offers various gui<strong>de</strong>d<br />
tours with expert gui<strong>de</strong>s, from May to late October,<br />
as well as a host of events for adults and children.<br />
There is a diverse range of walks, events, workshops<br />
and shows all of which are inten<strong>de</strong>d to showcase<br />
the exceptional natural and cultural heritage of the<br />
Cévennes National Park.<br />
View the schedule for 2013 at :<br />
www.cevennes-parcnational.fr<br />
Sandrine Descave's portrait<br />
Sandrine is an expert gui<strong>de</strong> and<br />
head of the Cévennes National<br />
Park in the Causse Méjean.<br />
She spent her childhood years<br />
involved in farming, at her<br />
parent’s farm in the Cantal.<br />
After having studied Nature<br />
Conservation and Management<br />
she passed the National Park<br />
entry examination which then<br />
allowed her to go on and become a technical expert<br />
at Vanoise National Park in <strong>19</strong>97. Her profession<br />
stems from a genuine passion for nature, and wild<br />
animals about which she is genuinely fascinated.<br />
Cévennes National Park, the only resi<strong>de</strong>ntial park in<br />
France, is propitious for a close relationship between<br />
people and nature, which is much appreciated by<br />
Sandrine. After 13 years of experience, Sandrine is<br />
the team lea<strong>de</strong>r of 6 expert gui<strong>de</strong>s. Her objective is<br />
to conserve the natural heritage, namely biodiversity,<br />
flora, landscape protection, land and valleys whilst<br />
maintaining agriculture and forestry activities.<br />
Her duties additionally involve providing support<br />
to farmers, <strong>de</strong>veloping biological and dynamic<br />
agriculture for good environmental practices and<br />
the integration of new farmers.<br />
She coordinates visits with groups during the nature<br />
festival and her passion allows her to show the<br />
public that they should become «ambassadors» of<br />
the Lozère.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
7<br />
World<br />
Humanity Heritage Site<br />
Causses and Cévennes, listed heritage sites<br />
Cévennes terraces,<br />
dry stone stronghold<br />
In Cévennes, dry stone walls pepper the terraced<br />
landscapes and have done for many thousands<br />
of years. Established in 2002, an association of<br />
professionals has fought to conserve this expertise.<br />
Pure dry stone. A sort of gui<strong>de</strong>line for the Artisans<br />
Bâtisseurs en Pierres Sèches (ABPS) association,<br />
based in Lozère. Construction without any binding<br />
material, « the absence of cement allows for drainage<br />
of water whilst maintaining the earth », highlights<br />
Cathie O’Neill, association coordinator. “This is the<br />
principle of the Cévennes terraces, or fascias, which<br />
are essential for culture here. These techniques<br />
almost disappeared in the 60s, with the appearance<br />
of concrete. However, in Lozère, there were still<br />
some artisans with this expertise. Given the uneven<br />
landscapes and famous Autumnal downpours, you<br />
can un<strong>de</strong>rstand why!”.<br />
Cévennes National Park<br />
Precious expertise to be han<strong>de</strong>d down<br />
Ten years later, this expertise is being exported : the<br />
association is travelling to regions such as the Creuse<br />
or Ariège, so as to train others in how to construct<br />
using dry stone. “In Cévennes also, this technique<br />
is one of the essential challenges of training future<br />
artisans”. The ABPS associations organises training<br />
sessions in Lozère which attracts locals and people<br />
from across France, as well as across the whole<br />
of Europe. The areas where training occurs are<br />
sponsored by local communes who are keep to<br />
maintain their traditional constructions. Expertise is<br />
han<strong>de</strong>d down whilst allow for the specificities of the<br />
Cévennes landscapes to be maintained. You might<br />
say it is like killing two birds with one stone…<br />
Find out more : In 2013, programmes «open to all»<br />
in clay at Sainte-Enimie, granite in Saint-Flour-<strong>de</strong>-<br />
Mercoire, and shale in Saint-Julien-du-Tournel.<br />
Contact :<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 32 58 47<br />
Website : www.pierreseche.fr<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
8<br />
World<br />
Humanity Heritage Site<br />
Causses and Cévennes, listed heritage sites<br />
Une activité dans la zone<br />
This vast site covers the Gorges du Tarn, Gorges <strong>de</strong><br />
la Jonte, and a portion of the Causses <strong>de</strong> Sauveterre,<br />
Méjean and Noir. There is an uninterrupted 70km<br />
stretch of vast clay plateaus, a network of galleries<br />
and un<strong>de</strong>rground cavities and many picturesque<br />
villages. It is a conserved area due to its landscapes,<br />
biodiversity and the quality of its rivers. The Mixed<br />
Union of the Gorges du Tarn, Jonte and Causses<br />
sites are involved in conserving this area and for the<br />
sustainable management of its activities. A largescale<br />
operation is un<strong>de</strong>rway in or<strong>de</strong>r to restore the<br />
quality of the landscapes on site and to offer visitors<br />
the very best conditions to discover the area.<br />
Portrait Olivier Jassaud,<br />
boatman at La Malène<br />
Olivier Jassaud was born into a<br />
family of boatmen, han<strong>de</strong>d down<br />
from generation to generation.<br />
He spent his childhood at la<br />
Malène where his father was<br />
a boatman. The history of<br />
boatmen and barges in the<br />
Gorges du Tarn is inextricably<br />
linked to his family history and<br />
to that of his compatriots. For a long time, barges<br />
were the only form of transportation in the canyon,<br />
used as a means of transport to travel from one<br />
village to the next, as well as working on vineyards<br />
and also fishing using nets or sparrow hawks. At the<br />
end of the <strong>19</strong>th century, the first tourists to adventure<br />
into the Gorges du Tarn via the new Paris-Béziers<br />
railway line led to the construction of hotels in the<br />
villages and major tourist exoduses began to flood<br />
into the region, but barges were not perfectly suited<br />
to tourism and particularly the clothing of tourists.<br />
The construction of a road within the Gorges in<br />
<strong>19</strong>05 would eventually lead to the end of traditional<br />
boating, and from <strong>19</strong>40 onwards only the village<br />
of la Malène offered a tourist <strong>de</strong>parture on this<br />
means of transportation. La Malène boatmen<br />
came together in <strong>19</strong>52 to form a cooperative, and<br />
<strong>de</strong>spite the adaptations required, this is the set-up<br />
which remains to date. At 41 years of age, Olivier is<br />
a manager of some 9 boatmen, just as during the<br />
time of his Uncle. Boat ri<strong>de</strong>s cover some 8km from<br />
la Malène to the Cirque <strong>de</strong>s Baumes, and allow<br />
tourists to discover the straights for around 1 hour.<br />
Each boatman provi<strong>de</strong>s a personal gui<strong>de</strong>d tour of the<br />
river, highlighting interesting flora, fauna, geology,<br />
and explaining the history of boatmen and the typical<br />
Gorges architecture.<br />
Contact :<br />
Les Bateliers <strong>de</strong> la Malène<br />
48210 La Malène - Tel. : 003(0)4 66 48 51 10<br />
Website : www.gorgesdutarn.com/<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
9<br />
World<br />
Humanity Heritage Site<br />
Causses and Cévennes, listed heritage sites<br />
Gorges du Tarn, <strong>de</strong> la Jonte et <strong>de</strong>s Causses<br />
Le Tarn left bank, tow path<br />
This is a former route which was primarily used as<br />
a tow path for mules on the left bank of the Tarn,<br />
from Ispagnac to Rozier, which linked the villages<br />
together. Before construction of the road in <strong>19</strong>20,<br />
N107 bis which went from Florac to Rozier following<br />
the right bank of the Tarn, this was well maintained.<br />
No longer being used, this path became unusable.<br />
La Malène boatmen restored the path so as it was<br />
once more useable. It can be used to follow the Tarn<br />
for four days and allows us to un<strong>de</strong>rstand the way<br />
life used to be lived in the ol<strong>de</strong>n days.<br />
Along the prestigious site of the Gorges du Tarn,<br />
this path allows us to witness Roman architecture:<br />
spagnac (Saint-Pierre church), Sainte-Enimie<br />
(-Notre-Dame-du-Gourg church), Saint-Chély du<br />
Tarn (church of the Assumption and at the end of<br />
the village, in the "<strong>de</strong> Cénarète" cave where there<br />
is a spring, is the Notre-Dame-<strong>de</strong>-Cénaret chapel),<br />
La Malène (<strong>de</strong>dicated to Saint-Jean Baptiste), Aux<br />
Vignes (Saint-Préjet church), Au Rozier (<strong>de</strong>dicated to<br />
La Trinité, Saint- Saturnin and Saint-Jean Baptiste).<br />
Day 1 : Florac - Sainte-Enimie (20 km) Biesse,<br />
Biessette, Ispagnac, Quézac, Castelbouc<br />
Day 2 : Sainte-Enimie - La Malène (20km) par<br />
Saint-Chély du Tarn, Hauterive.<br />
Day 3 : La Malène - Les Vignes (4 hours).<br />
Day 4 : Les Vignes - Le Rozier (4 hours).<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
10<br />
World<br />
Humanity Heritage Site<br />
Causses and Cévennes, listed heritage sites<br />
Remarkable and conserved heritage<br />
Isabelle Darnas 's portrait<br />
Isabelle Darnas Heritage<br />
Conservationist and Director<br />
of Education, Sport and Culture<br />
at the Lozère Regional Council<br />
Isabelle was born in Lyon, her links with the Lozère<br />
date back to her early childhood since she would<br />
come to spend school holidays here with her parents,<br />
in Saint-Germain <strong>de</strong> Calberte in Cévennes, who<br />
restored the Saint-Pierre Castle which her father<br />
had purchased in <strong>19</strong>64. The history surrounding<br />
the purchase of the Castle is quite unique. Her<br />
grandfather, a prison inspector in Lyon, became<br />
friends with a prisoner from Cévenole.<br />
After he was released and invited to the Darnas<br />
family table, Isabelle’s father indicated his wish to<br />
purchase a holiday home to renovate in the<br />
country. The former<br />
prisoner then offered<br />
to give him the ruined<br />
Saint-Pierre Castle<br />
in Saint-Germain-<strong>de</strong><br />
Calberte which, since<br />
the Napoleonic era,<br />
was owned by the<br />
family and to which<br />
he was sole heir and<br />
he had no intentions<br />
of renovating it as<br />
it had been in ruins<br />
and abandoned for<br />
500 years.<br />
From then on, our archaeologist acquired a lot of<br />
knowledge about heritage from the restoration<br />
works, and his successive knowledge turned into a<br />
genuine passion later becoming his profession. His<br />
archaeological thesis, written from <strong>19</strong>84 to <strong>19</strong>88,<br />
focused on the Middle Age, and the archaeological<br />
digs at Saint-Pierre Castle.<br />
This medieval castle, nestled on a rocky mount was<br />
a genuine stronghold at the heart of the Cévennes.<br />
It remarkably bears witness to the past medieval<br />
architecture, and Isabelle presumes that around one<br />
hundred or so resi<strong>de</strong>nts lived around this stronghold.<br />
There were also traces of metalwork, including two<br />
Anduze coins and fragments of ceramics. The Lozère<br />
implemented a systematic programme of locating<br />
public heritage in 2000. After 10 years of work by<br />
Isabelle Darnas on the protection and promotion of<br />
heritage objects and their safety, the majority of works<br />
and items discovered were recor<strong>de</strong>d in a database, so<br />
as to protect them from black market sales, loss and<br />
vandalism. The purpose of this was also to show that<br />
the major trends in European Art, <strong>de</strong>spite the rural<br />
character and recurring poverty of resi<strong>de</strong>nts, was<br />
ever present in Lozère. Isabelle Darnas is recognised<br />
throughout Lozère for her personal and professional<br />
qualities. She has published many works on medieval<br />
castles and Roman churches in the area. If you ask<br />
her what are the most exceptional discoveries she<br />
has found, she will respond, without hesitation, that it<br />
is a picture of « Saint Jerome at his <strong>de</strong>sk ».This was a<br />
painting by Luis Tristan <strong>de</strong> Escamilla (1585-1624), the<br />
best pupil of the GRECO. This painting, listed in 2008,<br />
was located in the attic of the Malène Presbyterian<br />
church and is back to its original beauty following<br />
restoration work having lasted some 8 years.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
11<br />
World<br />
Humanity Heritage Site<br />
Causses and Cévennes, listed heritage sites<br />
Tourism respecting the environment and surroundings<br />
Just as the parks which comprise it (Cévennes<br />
National Park and the Grands Causses Natural Park),<br />
the Causses and Cévennes are committed towards a<br />
well-balanced tourism which is integrated into local<br />
life and is environmentally respectful, in line with<br />
the European Charter for sustainable tourism. In<br />
this regard, the tourist activities for discovery of the<br />
cultural and natural heritage are perfectly integrated<br />
into the respect of the wealth and diversity of natural<br />
and constructed heritage.<br />
The Cévennes, a pioneer<br />
of the Cévennes ecotourism<br />
La charte concerne les gestionnaires du Parc,<br />
mais aussi les entreprises touristiques opérant<br />
à l’intérieur ainsi que les tours opérateurs et<br />
autocaristes y organisant <strong>de</strong>s voyages. La noblesse<br />
<strong>de</strong>s savoir-faire et produits du terroir est valorisée,<br />
afin <strong>de</strong> promouvoir un tourisme <strong>de</strong> qualité qui<br />
contribue à la gestion <strong>de</strong> l'espace comme au<br />
développement économique et social local.<br />
66 prestataires ont signé la charte Européenne <strong>de</strong><br />
développement durable.<br />
www.cevennes-ecotourisme.com<br />
Cévennes ecotourism: the ecotourism applied in<br />
Cévennes<br />
L’écotourisme, «c’est une forme<br />
<strong>de</strong> voyage dans un espace naturel<br />
qui contribue à la préservation <strong>de</strong><br />
l’environnement et au bien être<br />
<strong>de</strong>s populations locales». Créée en juin 2001,<br />
l’association Cévennes Ecotourisme accompagne<br />
sur le plan technique les prestataires, 50 à ce jour,<br />
qui souhaite s'engager aux côtés du Parc National<br />
<strong>de</strong>s Cévennes dans l'application <strong>de</strong> la Charte<br />
européenne du tourisme durable. Car il n’est<br />
pas toujours aisé d’appliquer les règles visant à<br />
gérer raisonnablement <strong>de</strong>s territoires d’exception:<br />
assainissement par phyto-épuration, gestion<br />
<strong>de</strong>s déchets, achats responsables, utilisation <strong>de</strong><br />
produits d’entretien écologiques et <strong>de</strong> matériaux<br />
<strong>de</strong> construction locaux… Tout est passé en revue.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
12<br />
World<br />
Humanity Heritage Site<br />
Causses and Cévennes, listed heritage sites<br />
Traditional local festivals<br />
Saint-Michel Fair in Meyrueis<br />
Other World Humanity Heritage events<br />
Give in to temptation, make a pact with pleasure :<br />
29 and 30 September 2013<br />
A history of some eight centuries… In 1229, the Saint-<br />
Michel fair was already present in the franchise<br />
charter issued to the community by Raymond II from<br />
Anduze - Roquefeuil, Baron of Meyrueis. The fair<br />
then spread across two consecutive weeks.<br />
Down the centuries, it became one of the most<br />
important economic meetings in Causses and<br />
Cévennes. It was also eventually a location for<br />
sales on credit, farm leases and recruitments. The<br />
shepherds’ and valets’ « loue » also took place at<br />
this time.<br />
After going into <strong>de</strong>cline in the <strong>19</strong>80s, it gradually<br />
fa<strong>de</strong>d away but in 2002 it was reborn. Saint-Michel<br />
un<strong>de</strong>rwent a makeover, and came into the 21st<br />
century. Year on year, focusing on the theme « Make<br />
a pact with pleasure », thousands of revellers meet<br />
in Meyrueis, on the final Sunday in September.<br />
In March, Easter beef day at Pont-<strong>de</strong>-Montvert.<br />
In May, Pélardon festival<br />
at Sainte-Croix Vallée Française.<br />
The Sainte-Croix Vallée française village will<br />
celebrate its 13th Pélardon Festival. All year long,<br />
the famous and emblematic AOP classified goat’s<br />
cheese from the valley will be showcased in a farmer’s<br />
and artisanal market where a range of specialities<br />
from the surrounding areas will be available on the<br />
stalls. Demonstrations, cheese ladling, trout fishing<br />
workshops in the Gardon for children and grownups<br />
alike will take place through the village streets.<br />
In July, shepherds’ days in Florac<br />
And the Pâturages Festival.<br />
In August, woollen artistic market.<br />
Organised by the « Saint-Michel Brotherhood,<br />
grass and frican<strong>de</strong>au sausage », it became the<br />
essential meeting place for regional gastronomy.<br />
Cheese, meats, honey, conserves, sweet onions<br />
and other fruits and local treasures from Causses<br />
and Cévennes created a wi<strong>de</strong> range of tastes and<br />
flavours. Artistic and expert artisanal tra<strong>de</strong>s come<br />
together amidst a festive atmosphere.<br />
Contact :<br />
OTSI <strong>de</strong> Meyrueis - Tel : 0033(0)4 66 45 60 33<br />
Website : www.lesgorgesdutarn.fr<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
13<br />
Men<strong>de</strong>, port town<br />
"Causses and Cévennes"<br />
Men<strong>de</strong>, former capital of the Gévaudan located in the<br />
heart of Lozère, is the port of entry to Causses and<br />
Cévennes listed as world humanity heritage sites by<br />
UNESCO.<br />
Today a dynamic and lively area.<br />
Although scientists found traces of the first resi<strong>de</strong>nts<br />
dating back to 200 BC, the historic centre of<br />
Men<strong>de</strong> rather reflects the medieval period in the<br />
city’s history. A visit to the cathedral is a must.<br />
Constructed from 1368,on the initiative of pope<br />
Urbain V, the Notre Dame and Saint Privat<br />
cathedral is one of the jewels in the crown of<br />
Men<strong>de</strong>. Dating back to the same period, the<br />
Pont <strong>de</strong>s Dames was, for a long time, the only<br />
stone bridge in the town. All around you can<br />
admire the superb roofs in overturned ship<br />
keeling.<br />
Another remarkable monument is the town<br />
hall which was an 18th century town manor<br />
house with its impressive Lauze roofing.<br />
In the wedding room, there are Aubusson<br />
tapestries representing the Biblical episo<strong>de</strong><br />
of Judith and General Holopherne.<br />
The area surrounding Men<strong>de</strong> is propitious<br />
to nature activities. Whether a lover of<br />
sports or relaxing strolls, high octane<br />
entertainment or simply admiring the<br />
view, there are seven routes leaving from<br />
Men<strong>de</strong> to discover the surroundings.<br />
Further information : www.ot-men<strong>de</strong>.fr<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
14<br />
Men<strong>de</strong>, port town<br />
"Causses and Cévennes"<br />
A port-town circuit showcasing<br />
world heritage Causses et Cévennes<br />
Men<strong>de</strong> to Millau<br />
A 130 km circuit lasting 1 to 2 days, including 3<br />
hours on the road.<br />
Man<strong>de</strong> to Millau, a circuit allowing you to cross a<br />
portion of the Gorges du Tarn and the central Causse<br />
Méjean and Causse Noir, listed as World Humanity<br />
Heritage sites.<br />
Exceptional landscapes guaranteed !<br />
Men<strong>de</strong><br />
Men<strong>de</strong>, a town of art and history, is an i<strong>de</strong>al<br />
<strong>de</strong>parture point for heading off the discover Causses<br />
and Cévennes. The sacred heritage of Men<strong>de</strong> offers<br />
visitors the chance to view traditional architecture<br />
and a must-see heritage.<br />
Take the D44 to Champerboux and enjoy the landscapes<br />
along the way showcasing their agro-pastoralism and<br />
many megaliths. Continue to Sainte-Enimie.<br />
Sainte–Enimie<br />
At the heart of the Gorges du Tarn, Sainte-Enimie is<br />
one of the most beautiful villages in France (medieval<br />
site).<br />
Points of interest :<br />
To discover the Causses lifestyle and architecture, visit<br />
the Boissets Estate. This collection of 17th century<br />
buildings has been restored and each presents its<br />
own theme inherent to Causses : the environment,<br />
country life and architectural characteristics of clay.<br />
Take the D907b to Hauterive and take in the spectacular<br />
view offered by Cirque <strong>de</strong> Saint-Chély over the Tarn. Then<br />
move on to La Malène. Take the D986 towards Mas <strong>de</strong> val,<br />
a religious site focusing on agro-pastoralism. Cross Le<br />
Buffre.<br />
Points of interest :<br />
• Heritage trail with 28 markers<br />
• Men<strong>de</strong> Cathedral<br />
• Notre Dame Bridge (12th Century)<br />
From Men<strong>de</strong>, take the N88 to Chanac.<br />
Chanac<br />
Discover this village which spans the old medieval<br />
castle, which was re<strong>de</strong>veloped down the centuries<br />
into the home of the bishop (Chanac Tower) and,<br />
some kilometres from there, the Villard fort.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
15<br />
Men<strong>de</strong>, port town<br />
"Causses and Cévennes"<br />
Hures la Para<strong>de</strong><br />
The Causses farm of Hyelzas invites you to discover<br />
the daily life of Causses resi<strong>de</strong>nts.<br />
Continue towards Meyrueis on the D986.<br />
Meyrueis<br />
I<strong>de</strong>ally located on the Gorges du Tarn and Jonte<br />
site, at the heart of Cévennes National Park and at<br />
the foot of Mont-Aigoual, the Meyrueis region still<br />
operates large-scale farming activities. You can also<br />
enjoy a host of nature activities.<br />
Point of interest :<br />
The Roquedols Castle trail with its illustrated reading<br />
tables.<br />
Follow the D39 and then the D584 to reach Veyreau,<br />
a traditional village in Causse Noir. Cross Vessac and<br />
continue on the D41 and then the 203.<br />
Saint-André <strong>de</strong> Vézines<br />
To discover the Roques Altes Nature Park (a ruinous<br />
rock site), head towards Saint-André.<br />
Millau<br />
Globally known for its monumental viaduct, Millau<br />
is also the Aveyron capital for outdoor activities :<br />
walking, climbing, mountain biking, paragliding,<br />
canoeing and kayaking… A town known for its gloves,<br />
the excellence of its expertise, labelled a town of Art<br />
and History, it is at the heart of the Midi Pyrenees and<br />
the Millau Viaduct is surroun<strong>de</strong>d by the renowned<br />
Roquefort, Larzac Templier and Hospital and the<br />
Sylvanès Abbey.<br />
Point of interest :<br />
• Tower of the Kings of Aragon at the heart of the<br />
old town<br />
• Gui<strong>de</strong>d tour of the town<br />
• Grands Causses Museum<br />
• Visit of glove manufacturers, art workshops and<br />
the Art Professions<br />
• Visit of the «Explorer’s Gar<strong>de</strong>n » at the foot of<br />
the viaduct (Viaduct Information Office, between<br />
Creissels and Saint-Georges <strong>de</strong> Luzençon)<br />
• Visit of Peyre, one of the most beautiful villages<br />
Contact : OT Men<strong>de</strong><br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 94 00 23 - Website : www.ot-men<strong>de</strong>.fr<br />
Continue along the D124 and then the D41 and at Roque-<br />
Sainte-Marguerite, why not enjoy a break in the clear<br />
water of the Dourbie. Continue towards Millau on the<br />
D991 (Gorges <strong>de</strong> la Dourbie).<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
16<br />
Men<strong>de</strong>, port town<br />
On the traces of Urbain V : a Papal trail in Lozère<br />
Pretext for a spiritual quest, a <strong>de</strong>sire to discover new<br />
sites in all their beauty, and a wish to un<strong>de</strong>rtake a<br />
gentle and boosting sport, the Urbain V trail is a new<br />
itinerary for pilgrims. A gui<strong>de</strong> for the trail is currently<br />
being drafted by the FFRP. Over more than a hundred<br />
kilometres, you can walk in the traces of the Pope<br />
Urbain V, 700 years after his birth, and it will now<br />
become a reality. Since 1 July 2012, the inauguration<br />
date of this trail, it is possible to wind back the clock,<br />
to the time when Guillaume <strong>de</strong> Grimoard was to<br />
become one of the most famous and charismatic<br />
characters in Lozère.<br />
Step by step<br />
With walking shoes and your mind completely stress<br />
free, you can criss-cross the paths which will lead<br />
you, step by step, to a better un<strong>de</strong>rstanding of the<br />
life of he who was named « the fortunate ». From<br />
Saint-Privat <strong>de</strong> Vallongue to Men<strong>de</strong>, the itinerary<br />
will be divi<strong>de</strong>d into four to six days including some<br />
historical stopovers : Bellegar<strong>de</strong> Castle where<br />
the Young Guillaume <strong>de</strong> Grimoard played in the<br />
dungeon ; Bédouès Church since Urbain V was<br />
buried there along with his family ; Quézac, as the<br />
Pope established a stopover for the pilgrimage to<br />
pray for Notre-Dame <strong>de</strong> Quézac.<br />
At the end of the 104 kilometres of walking, you<br />
will arrive by the Causse <strong>de</strong> Men<strong>de</strong> in front of the<br />
cathedral entrance and the statue portraying the<br />
Benedictine at just 15 years old.<br />
Group coach trips :<br />
One-day circuit on religious tourism.<br />
Morning : gui<strong>de</strong>d tour of the Men<strong>de</strong> historic centre<br />
and its cathedral.<br />
Lunch in a town restaurant. Visit to Bédoues<br />
church.<br />
Visit to Grizac castle and exhibition on Urbain<br />
V. Relaxation at Pont-<strong>de</strong>-Montvert, one of the<br />
most ar<strong>de</strong>nt bastions of Protestantism in<br />
Cévennes; this is where the Camisard<br />
uprising started.<br />
Contact :<br />
OT Men<strong>de</strong><br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 94 00 23<br />
otmen<strong>de</strong>.direction@wanadoo.fr<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
17<br />
Medicinal and edible plant<br />
discovery weekend<br />
From 5 to 7 April 2013 and from 12 to 14 July 2013<br />
During a weekend, give yourself a break in nature,<br />
so as to discover medicinal and/or edible plant<br />
life. Claire and Sophie, producers of aromatic and<br />
medicinal plants will gui<strong>de</strong> you during this day long<br />
botanical adventure.<br />
It is an invitation to head off and discover common<br />
plants : how to locate them, recognise them, name<br />
them and how to use them. Off the beaten track<br />
and in the surrounding gar<strong>de</strong>ns, you can take time<br />
to observe plants and to take some cuttings. In the<br />
afternoon, you can then cook these plants as you<br />
wish (pesto, fresh cheese tarts, vegetable patés)<br />
for tasting, along with a refreshing drink or glass of<br />
plant-wine.<br />
Price : €130 /person : 3 days/2 nights in a hotel<br />
Men<strong>de</strong>, port town<br />
"Causses and Cévennes"<br />
This price inclu<strong>de</strong>s :<br />
- 2 nights in a Men<strong>de</strong> hotel (located some 100 metres<br />
from the town centre)<br />
- 2 breakfasts / person<br />
- Botanical day trip (Saturday) and tasting<br />
The price does not inclu<strong>de</strong> :<br />
- transportation, travel during the stay<br />
- breakfast, dinner, picnics on Saturday.<br />
Picnic shall be held on Saturday<br />
Please contact us for more<br />
accommodation options :<br />
gîte, half-board hotel…<br />
Contact :<br />
OT Men<strong>de</strong><br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 94 00 23<br />
otmen<strong>de</strong>.direction@wanadoo.fr<br />
Price valid of a double room for a minimum of 10<br />
people for the botanical trail.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
18<br />
Lozère bolsters its appeal<br />
Confronted with an increasingly lively competition<br />
between regions, the Lozère Regional Council has<br />
launched a programme to bolster the appeal of the<br />
region which allows each resi<strong>de</strong>nt to become an<br />
ambassador.<br />
Reasons for initiating a programme for regional<br />
appeal :<br />
At a time when there is an increasing amount of<br />
competitivity between regions, and upon launch of<br />
the Lozère 2020 regional programme, the Regional<br />
Council has <strong>de</strong>ci<strong>de</strong>d to initiate, since January 2011,<br />
reflection on the challenge of regional appeal<br />
and to issue responses to provi<strong>de</strong> the Lozère with<br />
concrete actions, Beyond its un<strong>de</strong>niable assets, it is<br />
important to highlight that our <strong>de</strong>partment also has<br />
weaknesses which must be overcome, and it is all<br />
the more important to today promote ourselves in<br />
relation to other regions.<br />
How is it necessary to bring together all<br />
<strong>de</strong>partmental stakehol<strong>de</strong>rs so as to <strong>de</strong>liver a<br />
common message :<br />
To confront these challenges, it is essential to<br />
prepare and best organise the region, to involve<br />
resi<strong>de</strong>nts and to prepare with all partners for new<br />
working populations and to see how Lozère can<br />
stand out from other <strong>de</strong>partments through well<br />
studied communication and a good reputation.<br />
The reflection we have organised and questionnaires<br />
distributed to the entire population have shown the<br />
need to improve the appeal and communication of<br />
our region.<br />
Lozère<br />
un<strong>de</strong>r the microscope<br />
The appeal of a region<br />
How can this programme be implemented in<br />
practice <br />
Beyond the actions already in place (exchanges<br />
with external stakehol<strong>de</strong>rs, implementation of work<br />
councils and reflection), the Regional Council took<br />
the <strong>de</strong>cision to produce publicity so as to promote<br />
the region and to respond to a strong expectation<br />
from the local stakehol<strong>de</strong>rs. With the support of the<br />
Regional Tourist Committee, four 30 second films<br />
were shot in October so as to present the Lozère as<br />
a tourist <strong>de</strong>stination but also to construct a moving<br />
project. We also wanted resi<strong>de</strong>nts to i<strong>de</strong>ntify with<br />
these images and to reinstate their pri<strong>de</strong>.<br />
Excerpt from an interview with Jean-Paul Pourquier,<br />
Chair of the Lozère Regional Council for Couleurs<br />
Lozère Regional Council magazine.<br />
National advertising campaigns.<br />
Beyond this exceptional programme, the Regional<br />
Council additionally wanted to involve the entire<br />
population and to <strong>de</strong>velop a network of ambassadors.<br />
“The first film is an approach which presents the<br />
assets of the region and the <strong>de</strong>sire to produce a<br />
genuine project about life here. The second, focusing<br />
on tourism, presents the natural assets of our<br />
<strong>de</strong>partment and its activities. From a boat ri<strong>de</strong> with<br />
the La Malene boatmen, and a mountain bike ri<strong>de</strong>,<br />
horseback ri<strong>de</strong> or a stroll, this is a real invitation on<br />
a journey. We also wanted to allow all resi<strong>de</strong>nts to<br />
explain their life, whether personal, professional or<br />
family”.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
<strong>19</strong><br />
Lozère<br />
un<strong>de</strong>r the microscope<br />
Breath... first !<br />
The Regional Tourism Committee is issuing, for the<br />
first time, an advertising document in magazine<br />
format. It was first distributed to Tourist Office body<br />
meetings.<br />
In line with the Regional Council communication,<br />
this document in 24x16 cm format favours the use<br />
of visuals, close-ups, i<strong>de</strong>as, and news, etc. and is<br />
inten<strong>de</strong>d to be a real ambassador for the region.<br />
This magazine entitled «Breathe», which is an<br />
addition to the existing communication tools, aims<br />
to allowing people to dream by presenting the region<br />
as a <strong>de</strong>stination whcih was able to keep its true value<br />
and art of living but which is resolutely focused on<br />
the future.<br />
It is a genuine 84 page communication tool which<br />
has hundreds of i<strong>de</strong>as, visits, discoveries, meetings,<br />
outdoor activities in the area, good places to visit for<br />
a won<strong>de</strong>rful stay.<br />
The magazine «Breathe»<br />
does in<strong>de</strong>ed favour giving<br />
people from the region the<br />
chance to express their<br />
emotions, tell us their<br />
passions, through the<br />
magazine concept with the<br />
following themes.<br />
Lozère and the best areas<br />
• Art of living in some original, typical or magical<br />
locations.<br />
• Lozère as you never saw it before between surprise<br />
and myths, surprises to be discovered.<br />
• Lozère to taste through its authentic produce and<br />
conserved landscapes.<br />
• Vitality and well-being in a spirit of relaxation and<br />
sport.<br />
• Lozère in practice, a genuine roadmap of the<br />
<strong>de</strong>partment.<br />
Two volumes per YEAR<br />
Two magazines are published per year «winterspring»<br />
and «summer-autumn» and will be<br />
distributed during publicity programmes organised<br />
by the Regional Tourist Committee and at other<br />
events in the region where public groups likely to<br />
visit the area are invited.<br />
Contact :<br />
E-mail : b.donnadieu@lozere-tourisme.com<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
20<br />
Lozère<br />
un<strong>de</strong>r the microscope<br />
Young French mountain biking trophy<br />
Competition to be held in Men<strong>de</strong> in 2013 :<br />
Since <strong>19</strong>92 each summer the Young French Mountain<br />
Biker trophy is organised over the period of a week.<br />
This competition falls within the framework of a<br />
multi-disciplinary training programme for young<br />
competitors. Nationally, the TFJV brings together<br />
regional committees and overseas <strong>de</strong>partments<br />
as well as foreign teams from Germany and<br />
Belgium. The host <strong>de</strong>partment also has a team. This<br />
competition is always organised in the week of 1<br />
August. For 2013, it will begin on 29 July and end on<br />
Friday 2 August.<br />
Competitors :<br />
Each regional team comprises children, in the<br />
youngest category (11 and 12 year olds), medium<br />
category<br />
(13 and 14 year olds) and ol<strong>de</strong>r children (15 and 16<br />
year olds).<br />
Schedule :<br />
Monday, team relay.<br />
Tuesday, orientation.<br />
Wednesday trial.<br />
Thursday, cross-country (XC).<br />
Friday, <strong>de</strong>scent.<br />
The assets of Men<strong>de</strong> :<br />
Human scale of the town.<br />
Expertise in sports event organisation.<br />
Website allowing mountain biking practice.<br />
The possibility of using volunteers.<br />
Contact :<br />
Benoît Valarier<br />
Tel : 06 49 65 75 30<br />
E-mail : b.valarier@gmail.fr<br />
The competition :<br />
The TFVJ promotes the team spirit and pri<strong>de</strong> to<br />
wear the colours of the region and the competitive<br />
nature of young people whilst respecting the rules<br />
and regulations of the opposition. Beyond sporting<br />
performance, the TFJV is a driver for <strong>de</strong>velopment<br />
of mountain biking and contributes towards young<br />
people enjoying sports. It is also a driver for<br />
<strong>de</strong>velopment of mountain biking, through various<br />
disciplines, within cycling schools. The competition<br />
comprises 5 events (one per day). Relays, orientation,<br />
trials, <strong>de</strong>scent and cross country, all with the same<br />
bike. Each participant will win team points as well as<br />
individual points.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
21<br />
Gîtes <strong>de</strong> France<br />
Various types of accommodation, rural<br />
gites, guest hoses and/or campsites.<br />
567 accommodation types in Lozère<br />
contributing towards promotion of<br />
rural environmental heritage.<br />
Website : www.gites-<strong>de</strong>-france-Lozère.fr<br />
Bienvenue à la Ferme<br />
80 hotels committed towards agrotourism.<br />
Farm-hotels are set in a<br />
traditional and authentic architectural<br />
framework.<br />
Website : www.bienvenue-a-la-ferme.com<br />
Panda Gite<br />
Classification of Panda gîtes is the<br />
result of a tripartite partnership<br />
between the WWF , natural Parks<br />
and gîtes <strong>de</strong> France. The Lozère has<br />
14 Panda Gites in the Cévennes<br />
National Park.<br />
Website : www.wwf.fr<br />
Cévennes Écotourisme<br />
The 97 members of the network<br />
are committed towards making<br />
progress so as to reduce their<br />
environmental impact and to favour<br />
sustainable <strong>de</strong>velopment of the<br />
Cévennes National Park.<br />
Website : www.cevennes-ecotourisme.com<br />
Lozère<br />
un<strong>de</strong>r the microscope<br />
Labelled accommodation<br />
Luxury guest homes<br />
7 charming guest houses and<br />
exceptional manor houses, castles and<br />
stately homes.<br />
Website : www.gites-<strong>de</strong>-france-Lozère.fr<br />
Qualité Sud <strong>de</strong> France<br />
Qualité Sud <strong>de</strong> France is nationally<br />
recognised by the Tourism Quality<br />
plan, which fe<strong>de</strong>rates, un<strong>de</strong>r a single symbol, the<br />
quality assurance of client satisfaction programmes.<br />
The <strong>19</strong> tourism professionals in Lozère have set<br />
general quality assurance criteria which involve<br />
promoting specific elements of the region<br />
Website : www.qualite-sudfrance.com<br />
Clévacances<br />
180 chalets, apartments, villas,<br />
and rooms all labelled Clévacances.<br />
Website : www.clevacances.com<br />
Tourisme et handicap<br />
This label guarantees proper<br />
information about accessibility<br />
for disabled people, of four categories, to tourist<br />
locations : hearing, mental, motor and visual. All<br />
tourist services are consi<strong>de</strong>red :<br />
accommodation, restaurants, site visits, attractions.<br />
In Lozère there are twenty labelled tourist sites.<br />
Website : www.tourisme-handicap.org<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
22<br />
Les Demeures <strong>de</strong> Lozère<br />
Hôtels/Restaurants<br />
9 Hotels/Restaurants with charm and beautiful<br />
architecture and a history lasting several centuries<br />
and 2 high quality recognised restaurants.<br />
Website : www.<strong>de</strong>meures-<strong>de</strong>-Lozère.com<br />
Cercle Prestige<br />
The Cercle Prestige label inclu<strong>de</strong>s over 50 « high<br />
quality » establishments in Languedoc-Roussillon.<br />
In Lozère, the Orfeuillette Castle and Muse and<br />
Rozier Hotels are members of this group.<br />
Website : www.sunfrance.com<br />
Logis <strong>de</strong> Lozère<br />
In Lozère 26 Logis <strong>de</strong> Lozère offer<br />
clients a friendly and human dimension.<br />
The hotels are mostly family owned<br />
and run, where each guest has a personalised warm<br />
welcome. They promote local produce.<br />
Website : www.logis-<strong>de</strong>-Lozère.com<br />
Châteaux et Hôtels<br />
<strong>de</strong> France<br />
For over 3o years, Châteaux &<br />
Hôtels <strong>de</strong> France has governed<br />
in<strong>de</strong>pen<strong>de</strong>nt establishments.<br />
Belonging to Alain<br />
Ducasse Group, the brand is an international<br />
reference for luxury hotels in France. In Lozère 6<br />
Hotels have this label.<br />
Website : www.chateauxhotels.com<br />
Lozère<br />
un<strong>de</strong>r the microscope<br />
Labelled accommodation<br />
Villages labelled as the<br />
«most beautiful in France»<br />
Sainte-Enimie, is a medieval village<br />
at the heart of the Gorges du Tarn, dating back to<br />
the 6th century, Enimie, princess Mérovingienne in<br />
exile as her father wanted to marry her off without<br />
consent. She was supposedly healed from leprosy by<br />
the Burle fountain water.<br />
Gar<strong>de</strong>-Guérin, a former fort overlooking the<br />
magnificent Gorges du Chassezac, is an i<strong>de</strong>al<br />
stopover for travellers wishing to stop off on the<br />
Régordance route.<br />
Stopover villages<br />
Aumont-Aubrac and Canourgue are<br />
both located on the A75 and are classed<br />
as stopover villages, which offer guests a quality<br />
welcome as outlined by a very <strong>de</strong>manding charter<br />
in terms of services and outlined by the Ministry for<br />
Infrastructure.<br />
Green Pearls<br />
Marvejols, the royal town of<br />
Gévaudan,<br />
Is one of the green pearls on the A75.<br />
It is one of the six small towns on this route which<br />
allows people to have a stopover. Rich with a rather<br />
tricky history, this is an historical town with many<br />
ruins, forts, the status of Henry IV and the Gévaudan<br />
Beast.<br />
Each year, Marvejols organises the «Marvejols<br />
Festival» during July.<br />
Website : www.ville-marvejols.fr<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
23<br />
A walker’s paradise<br />
Diverse and luxurious, the landscapes have never<br />
been so much appreciated, at walking pace. In the<br />
steps of Stevenson or the Saint-Jacques pilgrims,<br />
allow yourself to be carried away in Lozère by the<br />
magnificent spectacle of a wild and conserved<br />
landscape. Only allow yourself to be disturbed by<br />
the sound of the wind, the Aubrac bell, or the flight<br />
of birds above your head, the dream of any walker.<br />
In Lozère, this is not a fantasy. On the contrary,<br />
this large region, with a small population, offers<br />
unrivalled quality in the paths, i<strong>de</strong>al for walking. All<br />
in all, there are some 2450km of paths which make<br />
up walks.<br />
In the steps of history<br />
The historic paths are the first to draw your attention.<br />
Régordane’s path, Saint-Jacque’s path or Saint-<br />
Guilhem’s path all bear witness to our ancestors<br />
which are all now labelled GR paths. Gui<strong>de</strong>s are<br />
published for each of these, facilitating access to<br />
one and all. Well known, the Saint-Jacques path,<br />
already used by pilgrims in the Middle Age as far<br />
as Spain, cuts through Lozère via the Margeri<strong>de</strong>,<br />
at Saint-Roch’s pass, before then reaching Aubrac<br />
and leaving the <strong>de</strong>partment via Nasbinals. Saint-<br />
Guilhem’s path reminds people that the pilgrims<br />
went off to visit the Gellone Abbey, in the Hérault,<br />
en route, to see the remains of the famous William,<br />
cousin of Charlemagne.<br />
Lozère<br />
un<strong>de</strong>r the microscope<br />
Walks and strolls<br />
Régordane’s path, less spiritual than commercial,<br />
reminds visitors that the Lozère was for a long-time<br />
a compulsory passage between the Massif-Central<br />
and the plains in the Languedoc. In Cévennes, one of<br />
the most famous paths in France is named after the<br />
Scottish author Robert-Louis Stevenson : between<br />
Monastier and Saint-Jean-du-Gard, after he crossed<br />
some 220km in 1878 with a donkey and wrote a world<br />
famous story. Today, many follow in his footsteps.<br />
«The most important thing is to move ; to feel<br />
closer to the needs and troubles of life, to get out<br />
of the comfortable bed of civilisation, and to feel the<br />
granite beneath your feet with, in places, the cutting<br />
shale».<br />
Robert Louis Stevenson<br />
in "Travels with a donkey in the Cévennes.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
24<br />
Lozère<br />
un<strong>de</strong>r the microscope<br />
Walks and strolls<br />
Major species and landscapes<br />
The interest of walking in the Lozère primarily<br />
resi<strong>de</strong>s in the beauty of the landscapes : conserved<br />
and wild, they shine in their diversity. At the heart of<br />
the Cévennes National Park lies the Mediterranean<br />
influence; with Cévennes valleys and Mont-Lozère,<br />
all of the major species and landscapes take on<br />
their whole meaning. It is, moreover, one of the most<br />
beautiful walking <strong>de</strong>stinations in France.<br />
Key figures : 2450, the total number of marked<br />
paths maintained by the Departmental Walking and<br />
Rambling Committee. <strong>19</strong>50 km of major Rambling<br />
Paths (GR). All GR paths are outlined in gui<strong>de</strong>s issued<br />
by the French Fe<strong>de</strong>ration.<br />
Further to the West, the Grands Causses fill the<br />
horizon, dug here and there as far as the eye can<br />
see. The Gorges du Tarn pathway is one of the most<br />
beautiful ways of discovering this. For the Mont<br />
d’Aubrac, nothing is better than a walk along the<br />
GR 6 and GR 60. And if this is not enough, you can<br />
walk on the other transversal paths which are so<br />
numerous that they cannot all be cited here.<br />
The walking and rambling gui<strong>de</strong> is available on<br />
request from Tourist Offices or at www.Lozèretourisme.com.<br />
For historical paths :<br />
www.voie-regordane.com<br />
www.chemin-stevenson.org<br />
www.chemin-st-guilhem.fr<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
25<br />
Lozère<br />
un<strong>de</strong>r the microscope<br />
Industrial Tourism, an alternative aspect of the <strong>de</strong>partment<br />
Calquières Sewing and Embroi<strong>de</strong>ry<br />
Museum Listed Sud <strong>de</strong> France Quality<br />
Sewing and embroi<strong>de</strong>ry bear exceptional witness<br />
to the <strong>19</strong>th century French Revolution concerning<br />
textiles, and in this regard the number of engineers,<br />
teachers, historians and stu<strong>de</strong>nts. The care taken in<br />
promoting visits by youngsters allows the latters to<br />
learn about water, and raising through interactive<br />
commentaries and workshops.<br />
Contact :<br />
La filature <strong>de</strong>s Calquières - Langogne<br />
E-mail : filature-<strong>de</strong>s-calquieres@orange.fr<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 69 25 56<br />
Website : www.musee-lozere.com<br />
Roque Silk Culture in Molezon<br />
In an authentic silk culture (building inten<strong>de</strong>d for use<br />
as raising silk worms), the «Le fil dans la mémoire»<br />
exhibition indicates the place held by silk in the<br />
Cévennes regional i<strong>de</strong>ntity, the various stages of silk<br />
worm culture, the architecture of such buildings,<br />
their <strong>de</strong>velopment along with the silk culture, and<br />
the transformation of the landscape. Free visits<br />
from 1 to 2.5 hours, and the option of gui<strong>de</strong>d tours<br />
for groups (solely upon booking).<br />
Contact : Parc National <strong>de</strong>s Cévennes<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 49 53 00<br />
E-mail : info@cevennes-parcnational.fr<br />
Website : www.cevennes-parcnational.fr<br />
Quézac water bottling plant<br />
Nestle Water France Group :<br />
The visit focuses around 3 major areas :<br />
• Quézac mineral source, the result of a geological<br />
exception,<br />
• the Quézac industrial process: manufacture to<br />
dispatch, and filling,<br />
• the personality of the brand relying on the wealth<br />
of its environmental heritage and advertising<br />
Contact :<br />
Syndicat <strong>de</strong> l’eau <strong>de</strong> Quézac<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 45 47 15<br />
E-mail : contact@eau<strong>de</strong>quezac.com<br />
Website : www.eau<strong>de</strong>quezac.com/visites-gui<strong>de</strong>es<br />
Also to visit<br />
• Schistes Rochers, Tournel, St Julien du Tournel<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 47 62 67<br />
E-mail : schistesrocher@free.fr<br />
• Cor<strong>de</strong>sse Meubles, Palhers, Marvejols<br />
Tel. 0033(0)4 66 32 08 13, Website : www.cor<strong>de</strong>sse.com<br />
• Verfeuille – <strong>de</strong>rivative chestnut products<br />
Tel. 0033(0)4 66 61 10 98,<br />
E-mail : contact@chataigne-cevennes.com<br />
Website : www.chataigne-cevennes.com/in<strong>de</strong>x.htm<br />
• ARCELORMITTAL Plant, Metalworking Museum,<br />
Saint-Chély d’Apcher - Tel. 0033(0)4 66 31 29 38<br />
Open from June to September, Tuesday through<br />
Saturday<br />
From 2pm to 6pm<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
26<br />
Family<br />
Promoting nature<br />
If you want to see the mains of wild horses float around<br />
in the breeze, you should either go to Mongolia of the<br />
Causse Méjean in Lozère. The Przewalski horses<br />
gallop, this symbolic species, protected throughout<br />
Europe.<br />
Other species : European bison, returning to<br />
Margeri<strong>de</strong> to graze, and wild vultures in the Gorges<br />
<strong>de</strong> la Jonte.<br />
European bison<br />
Around forty or so bison live on the Margeri<strong>de</strong><br />
Plateaus in semi-liberty in a park open to the public.<br />
Each year one or two offspring are expected in<br />
autumn, with the troop of bison currently standing<br />
at 40. Sainte-Eulalie is where visitors can head off<br />
to discover this 80 hectare park. “We can go onto<br />
their land, which is the best way to see them” insists<br />
Christophe Aldrovandi, Park Director. The gui<strong>de</strong>d<br />
visit takes place on a sledge during snow”. A walk<br />
the length of the park takes place during birthing,<br />
and allows people to see this animal, dating back to<br />
prehistoric times, to be seen at people’s own pace.<br />
This one kilometre trail will, for the first time this<br />
year, be accessible during the entire winter, with<br />
raquette hire to boot.<br />
Gévaudan Wolves<br />
Close to Marvejols, the Sainte-Lucie wolf park<br />
reminds us of yesteryear, when wolves populated<br />
the Margeri<strong>de</strong> forests. Born in the 60s this now has<br />
some 115 animals living in semi-liberty which you can<br />
observe and visit for the first time. In 2013, the Park<br />
organised many events around the theme: Wolves<br />
and Fables, with exhibitions, <strong>de</strong>corations and games<br />
(colouring, treasure hunts, giant puzzles), as well as<br />
theme afternoons (face painting and events).<br />
Website schedule :<br />
www.loupsdugevaudan.com<br />
Contact :<br />
Les loups du Gévaudan - Sainte- Lucie<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 32 09 22<br />
E-mail : info@loupsdugevaudan.com<br />
Gîtes and restaurant in situ<br />
Contact :<br />
Réserve <strong>de</strong>s bisons d'Europe<br />
Sainte-Eulalie<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 31 40 40<br />
E-mail : contact@bisoneurope.com<br />
Website : www.bisoneurope.com<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
27<br />
Family<br />
Promoting nature<br />
Vulture observation tower<br />
The Vulture observation tower is located in the<br />
Gorges <strong>de</strong> la Jonte, in the middle of the primary<br />
nesting sites of three species of vultures present in<br />
the Cévennes National Park. It presents a complete<br />
exhibition concerning the history of vultures,<br />
their disappearance and their reintroduction. An<br />
observation terrace, fitted out with a viewfin<strong>de</strong>r,<br />
allows people to see vultures in the best conditions.<br />
A vi<strong>de</strong>o transmission completes the observation<br />
thanks to cameras placed near the nesting site.<br />
Constant Bagnolini who leads the visits has, since the<br />
outset, been one of the main stakehol<strong>de</strong>rs involved in<br />
reintroduction of the vultures. He shares information<br />
about the various stages since reintroduction with<br />
some failures but much success, such as the birth<br />
of the first bird in captivity in <strong>19</strong>80.<br />
Everything began in <strong>19</strong>70, around forty years ago,<br />
when a first aviary was constructed and four young<br />
vultures (less than one year old) came from Spain<br />
to be settled here. Released one year later, in July<br />
<strong>19</strong>71, today we can watch their <strong>de</strong>scendants<br />
along the Gorges <strong>de</strong> la Jonte and the Tarn. You<br />
will learn to know the various species of these<br />
birds, the wild vulture (Gyps fulvus) recognisable<br />
through its lengthy neck with a white and cropped<br />
covering, which emerges from white feathering. They<br />
nest in colonies, in cliffs and notably in the Grands<br />
Causses.<br />
The Egyptian vulture (Nephron percnopterus) is<br />
smaller and recognisable due to the yellow skin on<br />
its face. It spends winter in subtropical Africa and in<br />
the Sahel, and reproduces in the mountainous areas<br />
of Europe. The Gipeto (Gypaetus babatus) is one of<br />
the most able in flight, <strong>de</strong>spite its large wingspan.<br />
In France, it is a protected species and is legally<br />
protected.<br />
In June 2012 the Cévennes National Park released<br />
a female «Cardabelle» from Berlin. This Egyptian<br />
vulture will one day perhaps complete the cohort of<br />
birds of prey already present on the site.<br />
Contact :<br />
Belvédère <strong>de</strong>s vautours<br />
Le Truel<br />
Saint Pierre <strong>de</strong>s Tripiers<br />
Tel : 0033(0)5 65 62 69 69<br />
E-mail : maison<strong>de</strong>svautours@hotmail.fr<br />
Website : www.vautours-lozere.com<br />
The monk vulture (Aegypius monachus) has an<br />
impressive span (between 2,65 and 2m85), but is<br />
lighter and nests in the tops of the trees, between 3<br />
and 20m from the ground. It is less social than the<br />
wild vulture.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
28<br />
Family<br />
Dog sled ri<strong>de</strong>s at Mas <strong>de</strong> la Barque<br />
Passionate about the tales of Jack London since<br />
childhood, it was when she was 11 that she got her<br />
first husky. Quickly she established her first pack with<br />
3 additional dogs and took part in races. She then<br />
went on to discover walking in France and abroad<br />
(Quebec, Slovakia). Her passion for this practice led<br />
her to sit her musher exam. After working for several<br />
years with around forty or so Alaskan dogs in the<br />
Pyrenees, in Finnish Lapland and Canada, it is the<br />
Cévennes species which Anne Sophie will introduce<br />
you to.<br />
Husky sled driven by a professional :<br />
20 minutes €25<br />
1 hour €40<br />
As part of the beginner’s trail, a musher can take<br />
a child on the sled for €50 for a half day and €80<br />
for a day (solely if accompanied by a parent). Other<br />
activities with or without snow.<br />
Cani rando or cani raquette, Gui<strong>de</strong>d tour of the Park<br />
to see NORDIC DOGS<br />
Contact :<br />
Le Mas <strong>de</strong> la Barque<br />
Villefort<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 46 92 72<br />
Fax : 0033(0)4 66 46 92 73<br />
E-mail : lemas<strong>de</strong>labarque@orange.fr<br />
Website : www.lemas<strong>de</strong>labarque.com<br />
Initiation to riding : the customer can drive the sled<br />
his/herself after a short training session which will<br />
soon initiate them into the rudimentary skills for<br />
driving.<br />
Professional gui<strong>de</strong>.<br />
Half day : adult: €90<br />
Child (7 to 10 years) €70<br />
Day: adults €140<br />
Child (7 to 10 years) €120<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
29<br />
Discover the second collection of<br />
menhirs in France<br />
Did Obélix know With 150 menhirs and 30 funeral<br />
buttes, the Cham <strong>de</strong>s Bondons site is the 2nd largest<br />
megalithic concentration in Europe after Carnac.<br />
But, unlike its cousin from Brittany, urbanisation did<br />
not prove it wrong. Quite the contrary, since these<br />
large granite stones, transported some 4000 years<br />
ago in a clay area, span a <strong>de</strong>serted area overlooked<br />
by black shale heaps, "l'Eschino d'aze" (donkey’s<br />
back) and the "Puechs" of the Bondons. The Mont<br />
Lozère ecomuseum which overlooks the site<br />
<strong>de</strong>veloped a menhir path so as to lead towards these<br />
monster stones carried by our ancestors. It leaves<br />
from the D35 junction (road on the Pont <strong>de</strong> Montvert<br />
pass) and the road through Combes close to the<br />
Montmirat pass.<br />
Download information at :<br />
http://www.cevennes-parcnational.fr<br />
Family<br />
Fairytale stroll with children<br />
Nîmes-le-Vieux,<br />
a path which will surprise<br />
Extraordinary rock formations, these are quite<br />
specific to the Causses landscape. Those at Nîmesle-Vieux,<br />
accessible thanks to the path of the same<br />
name and accessible from the Perjuret pass, are<br />
located on the Causse Méjean, in Cévennes National<br />
Park. This type of ruinous formation results from the<br />
dissolution of the rock, leaving room for the most<br />
hard-wearing parts of rocks and giving the most<br />
diverse forms. The arid and rocky formations at<br />
Nîmes-le-Vieux and the wi<strong>de</strong>spread rocks captivate<br />
visitors due to their extraordinary shapes, which<br />
excite the imagination and make people invent all<br />
sorts of characters. The path, some five kilometres,<br />
begins from Hom and unveils some exceptional<br />
landscapes. Delve into the mysterious universe of<br />
Causses.<br />
In situ : Farm hostel and farm produce (meats…)<br />
Gui<strong>de</strong> available from the Tourist Office in Florac,<br />
Meyrueis and the Florac Park Office.<br />
Also can be downloa<strong>de</strong>d from the Cévennes National<br />
Park website : www.cevennes-parcnational.fr<br />
Contact : 04 66 45 01 14<br />
Contact :<br />
Ferme auberge du chaos Nîmes le Vieux<br />
Le Veygalier<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 45 65 45<br />
E-mail : fermeduveygalier@nordnet.fr<br />
Coordonnées GPS :<br />
Lon : 3.524433 / Lat : 44.22895<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
30<br />
Family<br />
The Legend<br />
of the Beast of Gévaudan<br />
From 1764 to 1767 around a hundred people were<br />
victims of an unknown « beast » and just as many<br />
were attacked. Concentrated in the Haute-Lozère<br />
and the Monts du Vivarais, the attacks were blamed<br />
on an unknown beast, with an uncommon power of<br />
ubiquity and fear spread. Despite many slaughters<br />
and the involvement of hunters, hired by the king,<br />
the attacks continued. On <strong>19</strong> June 1767 Jean Chastel<br />
killed a large wolf in Sauges and the attacks stopped.<br />
Many dark tales were told about these events: a<br />
large wolf, hyena, pack of wolves. Abundant writing<br />
focused on this phenomenon without really casting<br />
any certainty over the origins. Gérard Menatory,<br />
manager of the Gévaudin<br />
wolf animal park,<br />
<strong>de</strong>fen<strong>de</strong>d wolves all<br />
his life and <strong>de</strong>nied their<br />
responsibility in this terrible<br />
history which was then the<br />
result of wolves being wiped<br />
out in our region.<br />
From Royal Marvejols to<br />
Saint-Alban sur Limagnole,<br />
all villages have their own<br />
tale of the wolf and the<br />
beast, and we can now<br />
walk along a marked<br />
trail in its footsteps.<br />
Stay in the land of the Beast of<br />
Gévaudan<br />
Each day there are visits and walks from Monday to<br />
Friday.<br />
On the schedule :<br />
Presentation of the history of the Gévaudan Beast,<br />
Walks through the area where the beast attacked, in<br />
Ténazeyre forest where it was killed by Jean Chastel<br />
and in the Mercoire forest with a gui<strong>de</strong>.<br />
A gourmet stopover with a farmer and beekeeper.<br />
Visit Luc Castle, that of the Morangiès family in<br />
Saint-Alban and Baume Castle in Prinsuéjols.<br />
Meet at the fantastic museum of the Beast of<br />
Gévaudan in Saugues, at the Home of the Beast in<br />
Auvers and then visit Mont-Mouchet.<br />
Discover the Gévaudan Wold Sanctuary in Sainte-<br />
Lucie.<br />
Contact :<br />
Association<br />
«Si la Bête du Gévaudan m’était contée»<br />
Tel : 06 88 98 83 04<br />
E-mail : Asso.slbdgmc@orange.fr<br />
Website : www.labetedugevaudan.fr<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
31<br />
Family<br />
Must-visit family sites<br />
Vallon du Villaret<br />
Success of contemporary art<br />
Already for 20 years, the Vallon du Villaret has been<br />
open. Located in Bagnols-les-Bains, this unique<br />
park in France is not easy to <strong>de</strong>scribe. And it is, no<br />
doubt, one of the reasons to its success.<br />
“At Villaret, art and games are combined with<br />
pleasure, outdoors” explains the director and<br />
foun<strong>de</strong>r Guillaume Sonnet. Here he invite visitors<br />
to be an actor in their own entertainment. And all<br />
installations have been <strong>de</strong>signed by artists”. Each<br />
year, new structures are unveiled by the Vallon keeps<br />
these secret. “We reserve all new structures for<br />
visitors”, insists Mr. Sonnet. Between three and five<br />
hours are necessary to cover just two kilometres.<br />
Guaranteed pleasure for visitors.<br />
Contact :<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 47 63 76<br />
E-mail : vallon@villaret.fr - Website : www.levillaret.fr<br />
Dargilan Cave***<br />
Visit the longest cave in Causses, 1.2 km.<br />
The «Pink Cave» with accentuated natural colours,<br />
is a lively cave. You can go to visit Dargilan even if you<br />
know some more beautiful caves in Europe wrote<br />
Edouard Alfred MARTEL. Visiting Dargilan cave is<br />
captivating due to its impressive dimensions and the<br />
variety of its concrete and natural colours.<br />
Following the visit, in the «Bell» room, a green door<br />
usually closed to the public opens. After a short walk<br />
there is an impressive stalagmite, behind which<br />
there are some candles, on a small lake. You can<br />
only go further through tales heard told by the voice<br />
of Clémentine.. who one day was lost, in summer,<br />
and who tells the tales of stones, snake nests. Mrs<br />
Clémentine Magiera, storyteller, is on site Sunday<br />
and Monday throughout July and August at 4.30pm<br />
in Dargilan.<br />
Contact :<br />
Tel :<br />
0033(0)4 66 45 60 20<br />
E-mail :<br />
contact@dargilan.com<br />
Website :<br />
grotte-dargilan.com<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
32<br />
Family<br />
Must-visit family sites<br />
Aven Armand***<br />
Louis Armand, a wel<strong>de</strong>r in Rozier, first went to Aven<br />
to which he granted his name. It was <strong>19</strong> September<br />
1897. The following day, lawyer Edouard Alfred<br />
Martel, today consi<strong>de</strong>red as the father of mo<strong>de</strong>rn<br />
cave exploration and Armand Viré, a French cave<br />
explorer, accompany him in discovering this fantastic<br />
cave. Cave explorer E.A Martel <strong>de</strong>scribed the site as<br />
the « dream of a Thousand and One Nights ». In a<br />
large 200m gallery, a small railway will take you to<br />
50m down beneath the earth in the vast room where<br />
Notre-Dame <strong>de</strong> Paris entered without punishment.<br />
Un<strong>de</strong>r a dim light, over 400 stalagmites of over 1<br />
metre in length are on show. And there is a world<br />
record for the “Great Stalagmite” reaching some<br />
30 metres. Expert and passionate gui<strong>de</strong>s, speaking<br />
English and Spanish, will allow you to admire this<br />
thanks to the changing lighting, the Vierge Forest<br />
and its stalagmites are also on show, quite unique<br />
in the world.<br />
Utopix Discovery Park<br />
A site which was <strong>de</strong>veloped some 20 years ago, which<br />
cannot fail to surprise due to its original architecture,<br />
its games, paintings, sculptures, and creatures. It<br />
is often <strong>de</strong>scribed as another planet. Utopix is the<br />
visible trace of the patient and passionate pathway<br />
of Jo Pillet and family. It is a sculpted resi<strong>de</strong>nce,<br />
with exhibitions (indoors and out), and games,<br />
where everything can be observed, discovered and<br />
experienced. Open from April to October.<br />
Contact :<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 48 59 07<br />
E-mail : utopix@lozere.org<br />
Website : www.utopix.lozere.org<br />
Each summer there are concerts un<strong>de</strong>rground. An<br />
alternate way to visit the Aven Armand cave:<br />
Rope <strong>de</strong>scent by the well where A.E. Martel<br />
<strong>de</strong>scen<strong>de</strong>d when discovering the cave in 1897. This<br />
exploration is organised for the public several times<br />
throughout the summer upon booking.<br />
Additional information<br />
The railway provi<strong>de</strong>s easy access to the cave for<br />
disabled people. Vi<strong>de</strong>o gui<strong>de</strong>: history of the cave with<br />
expert gui<strong>de</strong>s providing commentary<br />
Contact :<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 45 61 31<br />
E-mail : contact@aven-armand.com<br />
Website : www.aven-armand.com<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
33<br />
Treetops<br />
Your children can discover six acrobatic trails in the<br />
region and can imitate the hero from the Italo Calvino<br />
novel « The hanging Baron » who tells that at just 12<br />
years old, Come, the el<strong>de</strong>st son of Baron Laerse du<br />
Ron<strong>de</strong>au, <strong>de</strong>ci<strong>de</strong>d to climb to the top of a tree after<br />
a fight with his parents (his father asked him to eat<br />
snails cooked by his sister) : he never came down his<br />
whole life ! It is true! Treetop accrobranche located<br />
in a 10 hectare private park at La Canourgue on the<br />
Gorges du Tarn road offers 5 acrobatic pathways<br />
(tyrolieene, monkey bridge, Malaisian cage, net<br />
crossing) for children and teenagers <strong>de</strong>pending<br />
on their height (High Octane, Octane, Emotion,<br />
Discovery plus, Discovery level) and a Bambino level<br />
for the younger ones 3 years and over. 100% safe<br />
games, balls with nets, and climbing, are also on<br />
offer. Your children can show off their agility from<br />
the youngest age accompanied by parents. There is<br />
a café, barbecues and picnic area on site for relaxing<br />
meals in a natural setting.<br />
Contact :<br />
Du Haut <strong>de</strong>s Arbres<br />
48500 La Canourgue<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 49 37 92<br />
Website : www.accrobranches.com<br />
A brochure combining all information about the paths<br />
and safety information is available from the Tourist<br />
offices and at www.sportnature.Lozère.fr<br />
Family<br />
Fly high as a family<br />
Lozère from on high<br />
With a unique project for six via ferrata, Lazere is the<br />
new area to be for this discipline. Mid-way between<br />
climbing and rambling, this is a new activity so as to<br />
get your pulse racing and see some conserved sites<br />
for which Lozère holds the secrets. Welcome to a<br />
new playing ground..in nature!<br />
Via ferrata in Malzieu<br />
Two won<strong>de</strong>rful trails with several workshops (monkey<br />
bridge, footbridge, Nepal bridge, tyrolienne). In the<br />
latter part, the easy trail climbs the plateau directly<br />
whilst the difficult section climbs around the rock<br />
face to then make a steep <strong>de</strong>scent.<br />
Ad<strong>de</strong>d extra :<br />
Easy level suitable for visually impaired and the blind<br />
(awaiting classification as tourism and disability<br />
friendly).<br />
Details :<br />
Duration : 2 to 3 hours<br />
Altitu<strong>de</strong> : 800m- 890m<br />
GPS :<br />
(parking) N44.86288/E003.32391<br />
Contact :<br />
OT Malzieu-Ville<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 31 82 73<br />
Website : www.gevaudan.com<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
34<br />
Itinerary<br />
for motorbikes<br />
243 km round circuit<br />
Albaret Sainte-Marie – Aumont-Aubrac<br />
Nasbinals - Col <strong>de</strong> Bonnecombe - Les Violles<br />
Monastier-Le-Pin-Mories - La Canourgue<br />
Saint-Rome <strong>de</strong> Dolan – Sainte-Enimie - Men<strong>de</strong><br />
The short Lozère roads often cover some 100m or<br />
more and remind us of the landscapes of the north<br />
of the US and Canada, due to the large and vast<br />
empty expanses, but nature is there in abundance.<br />
Motorcyclists can enjoy turning on some fine roads.<br />
The circuit begins in the mid mountain range of<br />
Margeri<strong>de</strong>. The granite surface with vast prairies,<br />
woods and plateaus inclu<strong>de</strong>s a lot of turns through<br />
forests and plains. Beyond Aumont-Aubrac,<br />
the landscapes have evolved into an immense<br />
prairie at high altitu<strong>de</strong>, with this Basaltic plateau<br />
being abundant in lakes and rivers. The pastures<br />
surroun<strong>de</strong>d by stone walls are fairytale-like. Beyond<br />
the Bonnecombe pass (1350m), the ambiance is quite<br />
different. As if sud<strong>de</strong>nly Lozère was more southerly.<br />
The relief is more tortured in its appearance. After<br />
La Canourgue, you will cross the clay of “Causse<br />
<strong>de</strong> Sauveterre” to arrive in Sainte-Enimie in the<br />
Gorges du Tarn. Then you can pick up the road to<br />
Men<strong>de</strong> and Malzieu. Many remarkable sites cover<br />
the circuit: small chapel at Chaze <strong>de</strong> Peyre, Sabot<br />
<strong>de</strong> Malepeyre at La Canourgue, a magnificent view<br />
over the Gorges du Tarn at Point Sublime over the<br />
Causse <strong>de</strong> Sauveterre…,<br />
For lovers of mechanics, you can visit the Mechanics<br />
Company specialising in <strong>de</strong>sign and manufacture of<br />
industrial machinery and automobile rockers …<br />
Contact : EMD à Saint-Chely d’Apcher<br />
Website : www.estmd.com<br />
Recommen<strong>de</strong>d accommodation and restaurants<br />
Orfeuillette Castle Hotel and Restaurant****<br />
Albaret Sainte-Marie<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 42 65 65<br />
Website : www.hotels-brunel.com<br />
Le Rocher Blanc*** Hotel and Restaurant<br />
La Gar<strong>de</strong><br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 31 90 09<br />
Website : www.lerocherblanc.com<br />
Guest houses<br />
Les Violles<br />
Chirac<br />
Tel : 0033(0)46 66 32 77 66<br />
Website : www.Violles.net<br />
Le buron du Born restaurant<br />
Nasbinals- Route <strong>de</strong>s lacs D52<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 32 52 20<br />
Website : www.sejour-basti<strong>de</strong>.com<br />
Sources : Excerpt from «Motorbike itinerary» by Collin<br />
Audibert, published in «Roadtrip Magazine» October<br />
2011.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
35<br />
Itinerary<br />
for motorbikes<br />
Suggested motorbike itinerary<br />
Sources : Michelin Gui<strong>de</strong>, France 2012, 96motorbike routes<br />
In the solitu<strong>de</strong> of Cévenol<br />
Route n°46 :<br />
Circuit of 444 km leaving from Millau<br />
Discover the Gorges <strong>de</strong> la Jonte and the beautiful<br />
Cévennes corniche, along the road before <strong>de</strong>lving<br />
into the Cévennes valleys, with their rock formations<br />
on the arid lands, shale and clay houses hanging to<br />
the cliff edges, endless forests and <strong>de</strong>ep canyons,<br />
where you can enjoy nature, cultural heritage and a<br />
population which has kept the trace of the rebellions<br />
down its history.<br />
12 Motorbike stopovers in Lozère, with two on this<br />
circuit :<br />
«Le Family» Hotel restaurant in Meyrueis<br />
www.hotel-restaurant-family-48-12.com<br />
«La Draille» Gîte in Meyrueis<br />
www.nature-cevennes.com/fr/gitemeyrueiscevennes.php<br />
Wild pleasures in the Lot<br />
Route n°48 :<br />
Circuit of 318 km <strong>de</strong>parting from Men<strong>de</strong>.<br />
This circuit will lead you along the wil<strong>de</strong>st section of<br />
the Lot valley, from Men<strong>de</strong> to the Aubrac plateau to<br />
successively discover the historic heritage of Men<strong>de</strong>,<br />
land of art and history and the sumptuous Aubrac<br />
species.<br />
Motorbike stopover :<br />
Guest homes at «Auberge <strong>de</strong>s Violles» in Chirac<br />
www.lesViolles.net/topic/in<strong>de</strong>x.html<br />
«La Randonnée» Hotel Restaurant in Nasbinals<br />
www.basti<strong>de</strong>-nasbinals.com/<br />
Les Rochers Hotel and Restaurant in Marvejols<br />
www.hotel-reserver-reservation-soiree-etapelogis-<br />
France.hotel<strong>de</strong>srochers.com/<br />
Another recommen<strong>de</strong>d accommodation in Florac<br />
Gorges du Tarn Hotel- «L’Adonis» Restaurant<br />
www.hotel-gorgesdutarn.com/<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
36<br />
Itinerary<br />
for motorbikes<br />
Suggested itineraries<br />
Sources : Michelin Gui<strong>de</strong>, France 2012, 96 motorbike circuits<br />
Splendours on offer at Gorges du Tarn<br />
Route n°57 : Dual circuit of 335 km <strong>de</strong>parting<br />
from Florac<br />
A dual circuit of 335 km <strong>de</strong>parting from Florac which<br />
will allow you to discover the Gorges du Tarn and<br />
notably one of the most <strong>de</strong>lightful villages in France,<br />
Sainte-Enimie. Causses, caves, swallow holes,<br />
grottos, rock formations. Few regions can claim<br />
to have so many riches on offer for motorcyclists<br />
to see : endless landscapes crossed with winding<br />
roads, first rate tourist si<strong>de</strong>s and a varied cuisine.<br />
Points reception motorcyclists in Lozère :<br />
«Le Family» in Meyrueis<br />
www.hotel-restaurant-family-48-12.com<br />
• «La Draille» Gîte in Meyrueis<br />
www.nature-cevennes.com/fr/gite-meyrueiscevennes.php<br />
• These circuits and other great places at :<br />
www.lozere-tourisme.com/itinerairestouristiques-lozere.html<br />
Discover Lozère hotels by motorbike !<br />
Are you planning a getaway on your<br />
motorbike for a weekend or longer holidays<br />
in our region You can book into “Logis<br />
moto” hotels close to some exceptional<br />
sites and receive the warmest of welcomes.<br />
In Lozère, 17 hotels are labelled «Logis moto»<br />
and meet the quality of welcome charter for<br />
motorcyclists to enjoy.<br />
The "advantages" of Logis moto hotels :<br />
• On site, your motorbike will be safe in a covered<br />
car park or secure parking site.<br />
• You can wash your motorbike, and there is a secure<br />
and ventilated premises for drying out clothing. If you<br />
need advice about the itinerary to cover for your day’s<br />
ri<strong>de</strong>, our hosts will help you with their knowledge<br />
of the region, and suggest tourist itineraries which<br />
are adapted to motorbikes and they can provi<strong>de</strong><br />
information which is essential for a fantastic stay<br />
(weather, motorbike garages, fuelling stations, gas<br />
stations). Road maps and motorbike magazines can<br />
be read on site.<br />
Website : www.logis-<strong>de</strong>-lozere.com<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
37<br />
Itinerary<br />
for motorbikes<br />
Gorges du Tarn and Dourbie<br />
Sources : Le petit futé, les 100 plus belles bala<strong>de</strong>s, France à moto.<br />
Route n°64, <strong>19</strong>4 km<br />
Lovers of caves and canyons will not be disappointed<br />
by this circuit which will lead you through the beautiful<br />
Gorges du Tarn, and the canyon and Gorges <strong>de</strong> la<br />
Dourbie, less well known but just as impressive. You<br />
will return via Meyrueis via the peaks of the Causse<br />
Méjean, a vast clay plateau with valleys and large<br />
expanses of land, grass and woodlands. Some sites<br />
<strong>de</strong>serve particular attention, notably around Sainte-<br />
Enimie, where the craters of Pougnadoires,<br />
Saint-Chély and Baumes offer some fantastic<br />
surprises. On the road leading you via the superb<br />
Séreyrè<strong>de</strong> pass towards Meyrueis, do not miss out<br />
on the Bramabiau abyss, at Camprieu , which is<br />
where the Bonheur River takes source !<br />
Suggested stopovers :<br />
«Le Château <strong>de</strong> la Caze» Hotel Restaurant<br />
Route <strong>de</strong>s Gorges-du-Tarn, La Malène<br />
www.chateau<strong>de</strong>lacaze.com<br />
0033(0)4 66 48 51 01<br />
«Le Pas du Loup» Restaurant<br />
Le bourg, Le Rozier<br />
www.lepasduloup.fr<br />
0033(0)5 65 62 69 96<br />
La Jonte Hotel Restaurant<br />
Hameau <strong>de</strong>s Douzes, Le Rozier<br />
www.hotel<strong>de</strong>lajonte.com<br />
0033(0)5 65 62 60 52<br />
Be sure not to miss Men<strong>de</strong>, a small town in<br />
Gévaudan which even gave a Pope to Christianity :<br />
Urbain V, the very same who constructed the Notre-<br />
Dame and Saint-Private cathedral in Men<strong>de</strong>, with<br />
the largest bell ever wel<strong>de</strong>d : « La Non Pareille ».<br />
Today, Men<strong>de</strong> is a town with some 12,000 resi<strong>de</strong>nts,<br />
essentially commercial and administrative, which is<br />
wi<strong>de</strong>ly visited in summer. The visit is focused around<br />
the town centre, limited by a circular boulevard and<br />
where the former town walls were located.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
38<br />
Samantha Tichet's portrait<br />
Samantha Tichet (20 years old) was<br />
born in Lozère where she grew up in a<br />
family of motorbike lovers, particularly<br />
Enduro. Her parents initiated her<br />
to this sport from 4 years old. She<br />
began with short Enduro circuits,<br />
which was a passion han<strong>de</strong>d down to<br />
her by her mother. At 16, she was the<br />
first girl to join the Team, at the Lozère Moto Club, which<br />
prepares for the French Enduro Championships in the<br />
best possible conditions. The Club negotiates contracts<br />
with motorbikes (Husqvarna of late), equipment (Alias,<br />
Scorpion), oil (Ipone) and supports them throughout the<br />
whole championship (assistance, logistics, preparation,<br />
accommodation). The objective is to allow the most<br />
motivated to be able to fully express themselves and be<br />
amongst the best in their category. Since its creation in<br />
<strong>19</strong>72, the club and its some 150 active members have not<br />
stopped <strong>de</strong>veloping motor biking in France by organising<br />
Enduro trials and gui<strong>de</strong>d ri<strong>de</strong>s.<br />
Samantha is proud to be able to participate in the<br />
Trefle, she enjoys these three days which takes place in<br />
won<strong>de</strong>rful settings, between motorbike lovers.<br />
She focuses on her physical training so as to compensate<br />
for a <strong>de</strong>ficit in stature and strength in relation to the<br />
male entrants and she works on the mentality and<br />
intelligence so as to best manage her races. Her dream<br />
is to next year reach the status of top level sportswoman<br />
so as to have 100 days of leave on which she can focus<br />
on Enduro, to see her dream come true : to win a title.<br />
Itinerary<br />
for motorbikes<br />
Enduro<br />
Enduro is the motorbike equivalent of all road rallies<br />
in cars.<br />
The Loreze Moto Club organises Enduro motorbike<br />
circuits in the Lozère. The geographical diversity<br />
of the region (Cévennes, Causses, Gorges du Tarn,<br />
Margeri<strong>de</strong>, Aubrac, Lot Valley) can be discovered<br />
in absolute safety by members of the club who are<br />
perfectly au fait with the customs of the areas on<br />
the circuit (private tracks, prohibited areas, National<br />
Forestry areas, National parks).<br />
Circuits take place all year round. Four motorbikes<br />
is the minimum and 10 maximum.<br />
Trèfle in Lozère<br />
In France, the most well-known competition is the<br />
Trefle in Loreze which has been held for 25 years.<br />
The key Enduro competition in France has largely<br />
spread beyond its own bor<strong>de</strong>rs. The race takes<br />
place over three days, with three circuits around the<br />
Men<strong>de</strong>. This route which allows professional and<br />
amateur ri<strong>de</strong>rs to come together over 600km with<br />
special time trial events, longer relay events and<br />
also the chance to discover and take in the Loreze<br />
landscapes, far from the stress of championships,<br />
leading to the Trèfle Lozérien AMV, the first classic<br />
Enduro.<br />
Contact : www.moto-lozere.com<br />
www.trefle-lozerien-amv.com<br />
Her participations :<br />
2009 : France Championship<br />
2011 :World Championship in Men<strong>de</strong><br />
2012 : World Championship in Spain, Italy, Portugal<br />
and France<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
39<br />
Camping-Car<br />
Camping car itinerary full of discoveries<br />
Camping cars are synonymous with freedom, and<br />
are a means of transport, constituting an i<strong>de</strong>al<br />
manner to discover, as a couple or a family, some<br />
exceptional sites. In Lozère, tourism by camping car<br />
takes place all year, so as to discover the natural<br />
riches, heritage, history, architecture, animal<br />
reserves, and culinary traditions. To facilitate the<br />
stay of holidaymakers, 12 marked routes allow you<br />
to cover the Aubrac plains, prairies in Margeri<strong>de</strong>,<br />
Gorges du Tarn and the Jonte, via the Causses and<br />
Cévennes newly listed as World Humanity heritage<br />
sites, with these magnificent areas thrilling visitors<br />
looking for vast areas. The Lozère is an original area<br />
for discovery and relaxation.<br />
In 2013, the Lozère offers camping car holidaymakers<br />
62 areas including 38 Service Stations, 16 stopovers<br />
and 8 parking sites.<br />
The Lozère is this year increasing its offer of service<br />
stations by focusing these in largely populated areas<br />
and on the major roads. In 2013, there will be 62<br />
welcome areas, 38 service stations, 16 stopovers<br />
and 8 parking areas.<br />
38 service stations in the Lozère :<br />
• 12 permanent<br />
• 9 seasonal in private campsites.<br />
• 5 seasonal in local campsites<br />
Information about hosting camping cars in Lozère is<br />
constantly updated in line with standards and new<br />
infrastructure in the areas where they are hosted.<br />
The Regional Tourism Committee has integrated<br />
information for camping cars into its brochures<br />
(<strong>de</strong>tailed maps, list of campsites and communes<br />
with parking bays and various services). This map<br />
presents the service stations in the region (permanent<br />
and seasonal) and planned stations. It allows you to<br />
see the placement of planned service stations, for<br />
analysis per region and road (N106l N88, etc).<br />
Updated information is available online :<br />
At www.lozère-tourisme.com<br />
On the new Lozère Tourisme<br />
App available for Android or on the App Store.<br />
On the tourist map available in all Regional Tourist<br />
Offices.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
40<br />
Men<strong>de</strong> has created<br />
a new Mountain Bike Park concept,<br />
which respects the nature.<br />
This is an area for discovery in the heart of the<br />
Causse <strong>de</strong> Men<strong>de</strong> forest accessible for all for<br />
mountain biking in the forest. The purpose is to allow<br />
kids and grownups alike to enjoy mountain biking<br />
and to allow people to take back to cycling, in a fun<br />
way (mountain bike and Trial circuits, with modules<br />
adapted for each level).<br />
Everything has been <strong>de</strong>veloped so as not to damage<br />
the site and the ambiance on site. The modules have<br />
been exclusively <strong>de</strong>signed in wood using material<br />
collected on site. The <strong>de</strong>sign was thought up so as<br />
to retain the profile of the site without requiring any<br />
terracing. No trees were felled. It will be maintained<br />
by hand. Modules and workshops are primarily<br />
produced from pine without chrome or arsenic, solely<br />
assembled by screw fittings, and with no concrete.<br />
Three distinct areas make up the park :<br />
1. An area for children un<strong>de</strong>r 5 years old (surface<br />
area of 175m²).<br />
2. An area reserved for children from 5 to 8 years old<br />
(length 272m, route including 1 module, 2 Workshops<br />
and 3 natural obstacles).<br />
3. A route accessible to people over 8 years old<br />
(length 1050 m with 2 modules, two workshops, one<br />
bridge, and 8 natural obstacles).<br />
Bicycles<br />
Mountain Biking<br />
Mountain bikes in Lozère<br />
Routes around Men<strong>de</strong><br />
Each year, in late June/early July, a Cyclotourist<br />
route is organised by Men<strong>de</strong> Cycling Club. Without<br />
any competition being involved, this is open to all,<br />
whether or not an FFCT licence hol<strong>de</strong>r. Each edition<br />
offers 3 road routes (35km, 50km and 60km) and two<br />
mountain bike routes (20km and 45km), all organised<br />
in a circuit from the Place du Foirail in Men<strong>de</strong>.<br />
Contact : Francis Valadier<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 65 16 30 / 06 30 90 42 64<br />
E-mail : cyclomen2@orange.fr.<br />
Website : www.cycloclubmendois.fr/accueil.htm<br />
The communication and advertising media used<br />
for mountain bikers is issued by two tourist Offices.<br />
Men<strong>de</strong> Tourist Office has published a map with 16<br />
circuits around Men<strong>de</strong> with levels between 50m and<br />
958m.<br />
The circuits range from easy (for all entrants) up to<br />
2.3km and sports level up to 53km. Massegros Tourist<br />
Office has published a document with 8 mountain<br />
bike circuits which are marked and an Orientation<br />
Circuit to discover the Gorges du Tarn and the Grands<br />
Causses.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
41<br />
NEW IN 2012<br />
VTT électrique sur les causses<br />
Electric mountain biking in Causses<br />
Difficult to believe, but the electric power allows you<br />
to climb slopes over 40°. The summits are now open<br />
to you. Electric mountain bikes reduce the intensity<br />
of physical effort, thereby leaving a major place for<br />
steering. Steering is not reserved for the elite, it is the<br />
very essence of mountain biking, since before being<br />
cycling, mountain biking is a sport where sensations<br />
prevail over physical effort!<br />
For 11 years, Greg and his team lead Mountain bikers<br />
across the Causse Mejéan and the Gorges du Tarn. This<br />
year, they are proposing 6 offers for electric mountain<br />
biking in the Cévennes and the Gorges du Tarn.<br />
Across the Tarn, 3 to 5 steps each lasting 40 to 50 km<br />
between 800 and 1200m in altitu<strong>de</strong><br />
Departing from Mont-Lozère on the bor<strong>de</strong>r of the<br />
Cévennes, this route runs the length of the Tarn. After<br />
riding across the granite of Mont-Lozère and crossing<br />
the shale of the Cévennes, it is total immersion in the<br />
clay of the Gorges du Tarn which takes over and <strong>de</strong>lves<br />
you into the Grands Causses. Cévennes National Park<br />
is the only French park allowing people to go mountain<br />
biking.<br />
Level : 4 to 6hours per day<br />
Collective full board accommodation and lunchtime<br />
picnic<br />
Price : €520-€680<br />
Contact :<br />
Tel : 06 47 133 039<br />
E-mail : greg@coolbikeworld.com<br />
Website : coolbikeworld.com/CoolBike/electrips.<br />
html<br />
Bicycles<br />
Mountain Biking<br />
Mountain bikes in Lozère<br />
Other tourist professionals<br />
offering mountain biking stays<br />
Clau<strong>de</strong> and Myriam ROCHER<br />
Les Alpiers - 48<strong>19</strong>0 le Bleymard<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 48 67 02 or 06 76 39 03 55<br />
E-mail : loz.air@wanadoo.fr<br />
Website : www.lozair.net/contact<br />
Fremyc<br />
Place Sully - BP <strong>19</strong> - 48150 Meyrueis<br />
Tel : 06 58 13 48 48 ou 06 81 61 63 50<br />
Cévennes Évasion Sport Nature<br />
6 Place Boyer - 48400 FLORAC<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 45 18 31 - Fax : 0033(0)4 66 32 71 35<br />
Website : www.cevennes-evasion.fr<br />
Qualified mountain bike instructor<br />
Grégory DUCOULOMBIER<br />
Hameau <strong>de</strong> Volmanières - 48100 Chirac<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 44 25 49 or 06 71 78 41 93<br />
E-mail : mille_pattes.rando@yahoo.fr<br />
Mountain bike hire and Velo<br />
Planète 2 Roues<br />
5 avenue du Pont Roupt - 48000 Men<strong>de</strong><br />
Tel / Fax : 0033(0)4 66 49 17 00<br />
E-mail : planete2roues@wanadoo.fr<br />
Mountain bike hire and Velo<br />
Espace Bike<br />
Route du Chapitre - 48000 Men<strong>de</strong><br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 65 01 81 or 06 85 72 07 78<br />
E-mail : jean-luc.urban@educagri.fr<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
42<br />
Bicycles<br />
Mountain Biking<br />
Bicycles tourist routes<br />
As the host of some of the largest bicycle sporting<br />
events, such as the Lozérienne in May, or the Mont-<br />
Lozère granite in June, the Lozère also welcomes<br />
cycling lovers coming to discover the beauty of the<br />
landscapes, and the natural regions which are so<br />
diverse.<br />
Jalabert Climb, a slope of 12 <strong>de</strong>grees<br />
The Lozère has hosted the Tour <strong>de</strong> France on two<br />
occasions in <strong>19</strong>95 and 2010. Almost 10 years following<br />
the formidable victory of Laurent Jalabert on 14 July<br />
<strong>19</strong>95 during the 82nd Tour, Men<strong>de</strong> wanted to pay<br />
tribute to this great French champion, winner of a<br />
stage which later would become quite mythical. It was<br />
then named the New Cross slope, the stage for the<br />
exploit with 95 of its difficult slopes on the “Jalabert<br />
Climb” during cycling events organised on 14 May<br />
2005 in the presence of Laurent Jalabert. Quite simply<br />
by installing timekeepers at the start and end of the<br />
“Jalabert Climb” participants can take part in a time<br />
trial and try to receive an official diploma attesting<br />
the time performed. To do so, you need to obtain a<br />
special card from the Intercommunal Tourist Office in<br />
Men<strong>de</strong> which manages this “Jalabert Climb”.<br />
Many circuits are available in Lozère :<br />
• 11 circuits in Men<strong>de</strong> and its surroundings,<br />
• 12 circuits in Canourgue and its surroundings,<br />
• 20 circuits in Langogne-Naussac and its<br />
surroundings,<br />
• 4 circuits in Villefort and its surroundings.<br />
The Tour <strong>de</strong> la Lozère cycling route is a 595km-<br />
9600m altitu<strong>de</strong> circuit (permanent walk labelled by<br />
the French Cycling Tourism Fe<strong>de</strong>ration), proposed by<br />
Men<strong>de</strong> Cyclo Club, with this circuit being open to all.<br />
It will allow you to discover this magnificent region<br />
through its natural areas, in 6 days or more according<br />
to your own pace and the package selected.<br />
Give some meaning to travel... Cycling<br />
stays between "Demeures <strong>de</strong> Lozère"<br />
hotels<br />
Cévennes Evasion, a travel agency located in Florac<br />
in the heart of the Cévennes National Park. A team of<br />
seven passionate and multi-talented professionals,<br />
all nature experts and state registered, live in the<br />
Cévennes valleys. www.cevennes-evasion.com<br />
helping out Demeures <strong>de</strong> Lozère. There are a total of<br />
11 charming hotels, beautiful architecture, elegant<br />
<strong>de</strong>corations, warm welcomes and genuine areas<br />
which all combine to make this a quality group.<br />
Demeures <strong>de</strong> Lozère hotels are grouped around<br />
the name of « Charm, Culture and Flavours » so as<br />
to offer the very best. In 2013, in cooperation with<br />
Cévennes Evasion, Demeures <strong>de</strong> Lozère offers stays<br />
where you can discover Lozère by bicycle.<br />
www.<strong>de</strong>meures-<strong>de</strong>-lozere.com<br />
2013 Product : Bicycle tourism over 2 to 5 days<br />
around Demeures <strong>de</strong> Lozère<br />
Enjoy cycling in small groups between the 11 hotels<br />
in the region. During the stay, cyclists will discover<br />
the Lozère, its cuisine and the warm welcome of its<br />
charming hotels.<br />
The stay will also take place in absolute freedom with<br />
a gui<strong>de</strong>, either over 2 days in the north of Lozère, 3<br />
days in the south and 5 days across the entire region.<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
43<br />
January-February<br />
22 nd edition of the Tales and Meetings Festival<br />
from 8 to 23 February 2013<br />
Why since the dawn of time,<br />
have tales, myths and legends<br />
been so important to us, to<br />
our mouths and to our ears<br />
Why is “talking” today more<br />
than ever important in a world<br />
where the forms of circulation<br />
are diluted, where we have<br />
more and more difficulty to<br />
use our imagination, where<br />
our bodies have more and<br />
more difficulty <strong>de</strong>spite all<br />
of the “information and<br />
communication technologies”<br />
available Why for 22<br />
years, has Tales and Meetings in<br />
Lozère tries to discover, link and <strong>de</strong>velop wishes from<br />
elsewhere<br />
Because <strong>de</strong>ep down we are people who thrive on words<br />
and the art of storytelling, who do not care for bor<strong>de</strong>rs,<br />
and where we care about what is most precious within<br />
each of us: our capability to recognise others in their<br />
right to be different; to think of our relations with<br />
elsewhere in a human manner, without fear, or anger.<br />
Because stories are the basis on which we rely to<br />
become men or women, to construct our i<strong>de</strong>ntities,<br />
our memories and maybe also our future.<br />
For all of this, it is necessary to tell stories and listen<br />
to them whilst seeking warmth in the heart of the<br />
winter in Lozère, snuggled together, whether public or<br />
volunteers, activists for people’s education so <strong>de</strong>ar to<br />
rural households or simply passing through during the<br />
festival. We should listen with our eyes wi<strong>de</strong> open and<br />
all smiles so as to warm up the human soul.<br />
Full schedule at www.foyers-ruraux.com<br />
Events<br />
Festivals<br />
Truffle festival : 3 Festival 2013<br />
at La Canourgue.<br />
Organised by the Lozère Truffle Union. Sale of<br />
truffles, truffle market, culinary workshops with<br />
regional chefs, <strong>de</strong>monstration of truffle seeking<br />
using specialist dogs, raffle and truffle-flavoured<br />
aperitifs.<br />
Contact :<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> Tourisme <strong>de</strong> La Canourgue<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 32 83 67<br />
E-mail : ot-lacanourgue@wanadoo.fr<br />
Webite : www.ot-lacanourgue.com<br />
March<br />
Singleton Festival : 30 and 31 March 2013<br />
The singleton festival is an area for meetings in the<br />
framework of a festive and friendly atmosphere for<br />
young and the not so young singletons, whether in<br />
the urban or rural setting.<br />
This is a chance to have fun and a lot more if affinities<br />
are found.<br />
Contact :<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> Tourisme <strong>de</strong> La Canourgue<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 32 83 67<br />
E-mail : ot-lacanourgue@wanadoo.fr<br />
Website : www.foire-aux-celibataires.com<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
44<br />
Events<br />
Festivals<br />
May<br />
French Ancient Weaponry Festival :<br />
from 23 to 26 May 2013 at La Canourgue.<br />
Contact :<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> Tourisme <strong>de</strong> La Canourgue<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 32 83 67<br />
E-mail : ot-lacanourgue@wanadoo.fr<br />
Website : www.ot-lacanourgue.com<br />
27 th edition of the Trèfle Lozérien AMV :<br />
from 24 to 26 May 2013<br />
In <strong>19</strong>86, the Lozère Moto Club <strong>de</strong>veloped an innovative<br />
concept which overturned the world of Enduro, a<br />
three day race with three circuits around Men<strong>de</strong>, an<br />
a race which would bring together professional and<br />
amateur drivers over a 600km circuit with special<br />
time trials, and longer events to allow participants to<br />
discover and enjoy the Lozère landscapes, far from<br />
the stress of championships, leading to creation of<br />
the Trèfle lozérien AMV, the first Enduro event.<br />
Migration : 26 May 2013 at Bonnecombe Pass<br />
According to tradition, this takes place on the Sunday<br />
closest to 25 May. According to an ancestral practice,<br />
the troops of cattle climb from the surrounding<br />
valleys onto Aubrac plateau on 25 May for Saint-<br />
Urbain. They spend the whole summer on the green<br />
pastures before then <strong>de</strong>scending again for Saint-<br />
Géraud on 13 October.<br />
Contact :<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> Tourisme <strong>de</strong> La Canourgue<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 32 83 67<br />
E-mail : ot-lacanourgue@wanadoo.fr<br />
Website : www.ot-lacanourgue.com<br />
This trial quickly witnessed success and inspired<br />
other events such as the Grappe <strong>de</strong><br />
Cyrano, the Aveyronnaise Classic and the Val <strong>de</strong><br />
Lorraine Classic. Today the event brings together<br />
over 500 participants from across Europe and<br />
subscription is traditionally un<strong>de</strong>rtaken on a January<br />
evening at 11pm online, and completed within 6<br />
minutes. Emotion and passion are always present.<br />
Contact : Christophe Paris<br />
Tel : 06 07 48 11 88<br />
E-mail : chris@moto-lozere.com<br />
Websites : www.toolenduro.com<br />
www.trefle-lozerien-amv.com<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
45<br />
Events<br />
Festivals<br />
June<br />
40 th anniversary of the Caussenar<strong>de</strong> <strong>de</strong><br />
Hyelzas Festival : 8 June 2013<br />
The small village of Hyelzas nestled on the Causse<br />
Méjean between the Gorges du Tarn and Gorges<br />
<strong>de</strong> la Jonte invites you to discover a magnificent<br />
architectural heritage with arches and lauze roofing<br />
during the rural festival so as you can discover the<br />
agricultural and professional heritage in all of its<br />
glory.<br />
Contact :<br />
La Ferme Caussenar<strong>de</strong> d’Autrefois<br />
Hyelzas, Hures la Para<strong>de</strong><br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 45 65 25<br />
Website : www.ferme.caussenar<strong>de</strong>.free.fr/in<strong>de</strong>x.htm<br />
July<br />
48 th Street Festival : 5 to 8 July 2013 in Men<strong>de</strong><br />
Incredible but true ! Ten thousand spectators will<br />
each year flock towards Men<strong>de</strong> to enjoy these four<br />
days of events around performing arts.<br />
Contact :<br />
OT Men<strong>de</strong><br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 94 00 23<br />
Website : www.ot-men<strong>de</strong>.fr<br />
Mont Lozère Granite :<br />
8 and 9 June 2013 at Villefort<br />
For cycling lovers, ascent of Mont-Lozère is a<br />
massive event. This cycling-tourist event offers<br />
various circuits <strong>de</strong>pending on your level, and takes<br />
you across the Mont-Lozère roads to discover the<br />
superb landscapes.<br />
Contact :<br />
Ludovic Valentin Organisation<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 50 23 <strong>19</strong> 58<br />
Websites : www.lvorganisation.com<br />
www.villefort-cevennes.com/-Granite-<br />
Mont-Lozere<br />
24 hour Golf : 15 and 16 June 2013<br />
at Gorges du Tarn <strong>de</strong> La Canourgue Golf Course<br />
Contact :<br />
OT La Canourgue - Tel : 0033(0)4 66 32 83 67<br />
E-mail : ot-lacanourgue@wanadoo.fr<br />
Website : www.ot-lacanourgue.com<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
46<br />
Events<br />
Festivals<br />
July<br />
Art Festival : 12, 13 and 14 July 2013<br />
at Pont-<strong>de</strong>-Montvert<br />
Pont <strong>de</strong> Montvert and its resi<strong>de</strong>nts open their doors<br />
to 80 <strong>de</strong>signers from France, Switzerland, Italy and<br />
Holland, exhibiting and coordinating workshops. A<br />
unique meeting with passionate professions in some<br />
unique locations: garages, former boutiques, bread<br />
ovens.<br />
An artistic, cultural and festive atmosphere to<br />
discover the <strong>de</strong>signs of these creators and artists<br />
representing an economic niche in our territory.<br />
They will be involved so as to share their expertise.<br />
This event would not have been created without the<br />
major investment by the Cévennes Association for<br />
the Arts (AMAC), a dynamic and lively network which<br />
each year initiates new activities and contributes<br />
wi<strong>de</strong>ly towards promotion of our area. Many events<br />
take place: lyrical singing, exhibitions, historic<br />
discovery of the village and a gallery.<br />
Contact :<br />
Sylvie Van <strong>de</strong> Walle,<br />
OT «Des Cévennes au Mont Lozère»<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 45 81 94<br />
Websites : www.cevennes-lozere.com<br />
www.metierdartcevennes.org<br />
Détours du Mon<strong>de</strong> Festival :<br />
18, <strong>19</strong> and 20 July 2013 in Chanac<br />
Whilst musicians enter the Tour <strong>de</strong> Chanac for many<br />
concerts, the village is transformed into a global<br />
centrepiece where artists come from five continents<br />
and take over the streets. Travellers from all<br />
horizons come face to face with culture, creating an<br />
intercultural ambiance, participating in conferences<br />
about sustainable <strong>de</strong>velopment.<br />
The festival is purposefully ecologically based<br />
(recyclable cups, car sharing).<br />
Contact :<br />
Association Détours du Mon<strong>de</strong><br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 48 29 28 ou 09 71 53 70 89<br />
Websites : www.<strong>de</strong>toursdumon<strong>de</strong>.org<br />
www.myspace/<strong>de</strong>toursdumon<strong>de</strong><br />
Régordane Festival :<br />
21 July 2013 at La Gar<strong>de</strong>-Guérin<br />
Gar<strong>de</strong>-Guérin village is a unique witness of the<br />
medieval history of the Lozère on 21 July and a<br />
day of reconstructions with over 50 people who are<br />
passionate about the middle ages in costume at<br />
the foot of the dungeon. Visitors <strong>de</strong>lve <strong>de</strong>ep into the<br />
heart of a large camp for Régordance Festivals at<br />
Gar<strong>de</strong>-Guérin. In the framework of this magnificent<br />
fortified village, groups in costumes will bring out<br />
cloaks and swords and will transport the young and<br />
old alike into larger than life medieval history.<br />
Website : www.villefort-cevennes.com<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
47<br />
Events<br />
Festivals<br />
July<br />
Marvejols/Men<strong>de</strong> half-marathon :<br />
Sunday 21 July 2013<br />
This event is one of the international recognised<br />
French running events. The greatest runners in the<br />
world attend each event alongsi<strong>de</strong> the famous and<br />
those who are unknown. They come for the race, and<br />
above all the spirit.<br />
Contact :<br />
Semi-Marathon Marvejols/Men<strong>de</strong><br />
Café <strong>de</strong> la Paix BP 93<br />
48001 Men<strong>de</strong> Ce<strong>de</strong>x 01<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 49 30 29<br />
Website : www.marvejols-men<strong>de</strong>.org<br />
12 th edition of the InterFolk Festival :<br />
22 to 27 July 2013 at Langogne<br />
An international folklore festival involving music,<br />
dance, singing and world culture. It offers one and<br />
all the chance to discover culture and exchange via<br />
representations by varied groups coming from all<br />
continents.<br />
Contact :<br />
Association «Les Fadarelles»<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 46 17 35<br />
E-mail : langogneenfete@gmail.com<br />
Website : www.langogneenfete.fr<br />
August<br />
Festiv’Allier :<br />
1 st to 4th August 2013 at Langogne<br />
«Les Fadarelles» association organises the<br />
Festiv’Aller which is a 3 day event <strong>de</strong>dicated to music<br />
and culture.<br />
Thanks to concerts with emerging French artists,<br />
Festiv’Aller is inten<strong>de</strong>d to be a shop window for<br />
French chanson, with the aim of placing focus on<br />
the lyrics. The overriding objective is to offer cultural<br />
and musical awakening, allowing all to access these<br />
concerts with free shows as well as through the<br />
eclecticism and inter-regional nature of groups.<br />
This festival ends on 4 August with a floral float.<br />
Contact :<br />
Association «Les Fadarelles» - Tel : 0033(0)4 66 46 17 35<br />
E-mail : langogneenfete@gmail.com<br />
Website : www.langogneenfete.fr<br />
La Canourgue Noire : Thriller Novel Festival,<br />
2, 3 and 4 August 2013<br />
Established by a team of volunteers from all<br />
backgrounds, this thriller literary festival takes place<br />
in a rural setting. The various activities are planned<br />
around literature and authors, performing arts and<br />
cinema, etc. and take place in the streets along<br />
with snacks, drinks and other meals which combine<br />
culture and the festival. The “transversal” nature is<br />
always present at this festival which is loved by the<br />
resi<strong>de</strong>nts.<br />
Contact :<br />
OT La Canourgue - Tel : 00(3)04 66 32 83 67<br />
E-mail : ot-lacanourgue@wanadoo.fr<br />
Website : www.ot-lacanourgue.com<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
48<br />
Events<br />
Festivals<br />
Août<br />
Saint-Germain-<strong>de</strong>-Calberte’s tiny music festival :<br />
8-9 and 10 August 2013<br />
3 evenings of mobile concerts<br />
Saint-Germain <strong>de</strong> Calberte’s tiny music festival takes<br />
place in the village, at the heart of the Cévennes<br />
Park. Six classical, baroque, contemporary and<br />
jazz music festivals take place. They are held at the<br />
Saint-Germain temple and its surroundings. The<br />
purpose of this event is to combine music and fine<br />
arts in a mountainous village. The schedule for 2013<br />
is currently being <strong>de</strong>signed.<br />
Célestivales : early August in Auxillac<br />
Literary, theatrical and musical festival around the<br />
theme of Céleste Albaret, servant of Marcel Proust.<br />
Contact :<br />
OT La Canourgue<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 32 83 67<br />
E-mail : ot-lacanourgue@wanadoo.fr<br />
Website : www.ot-lacanourgue.com<br />
Two concerts will take place each evening between<br />
5pm and 11pm, and there will be a chance to eat,<br />
walk around and relax between each event.<br />
A total of eight concerts will take place over four<br />
days and will offer each a varied musical schedule<br />
at Saint-Germain-<strong>de</strong>-Calberte Temple. The festival<br />
is also a chance to meet music and other disciplines<br />
together, with tastings of local produce during the<br />
festival, and the artists will give musical workshops<br />
to youngsters.<br />
Contact :<br />
OTSI <strong>de</strong> Saint-Germain-<strong>de</strong>-Calberte<br />
Tel : 0033(0)4 66 45 93 66<br />
E-mail : reservation@letoutpetitfestivalmusical.fr<br />
Website : www.letoutpetitfestivalmusical.fr<br />
Inger Berckhauer - E-mail : i.berckhauer@lozere-tourisme.com - Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 14
49<br />
Photo Credits :<br />
Cover : Homme parapluie - Regis Domergue<br />
Page 2 : Carte - CDT Lozere<br />
Page 3 : Tetiere - Alain Lagrave / Carte : CDT Lozere<br />
Page 4 : Tetiere - Regis Domergue<br />
Page 5 : Tetiere - Inger Berckhauer / Agriculteur - Jean Christophe Barthes<br />
Page 6 Tetiere - Alain Lagrave / Femme - Sandrine Descave<br />
Page 7 : Tetiere - Jean Francois Salles / Bancel - Regis Domergue / Hauterives - Alain Lagrave<br />
Page 8 : Saint Enimie - Alain Lagrave / 2 photos en bas - Les Bateliers <strong>de</strong> la Malène<br />
Page 9 : Tetiere - Alain Lagrave / Florac - www.studionature.com / Montbrun village - Alain<br />
Lagrave / Quezac pont - Alain Lagrave<br />
Page 10 : Tetiere - Regis Domergue / Tableau - Rigaud<br />
Page 11 : Tetiere - www.studionature.com / portraits - Cevennes Ecotourisme<br />
Page 12 : Tetiere - Inger Berckhauer / Moutons - www.studionature.com<br />
Page 13 : Tetiere - Jean Francois Salles / Cathedrale - Jean Francois Salles<br />
Page 14 : Tetiere - www.studionature.com / Boissets - Jean Francois Salles<br />
Page 15 : Tetiere - Regis Domergue / meyrueis - Inger Berckhauer<br />
Page 16 : Tetiere - Jean Francois Salles / pape - Jean Francois Salles / carte - OT <strong>de</strong> Men<strong>de</strong><br />
Page 17 : Tetiere - Phovoir / garçon - www.studionature.com<br />
Page 18 : Aligot - www.studionature.com<br />
Page <strong>19</strong> : tetiere <strong>de</strong> respire - Fotolia / magazin - CDT Lozere<br />
Page 20 : tetiere vtt - www.studionature.com / VTT - www.studionature.com<br />
Page 21 : Tetiere - Eric Teissedre<br />
Page 22 : Tetiere - La Grange d'Emilie<br />
Page 23 : Tetiere - www.studionature.com<br />
Page 24 : Tetiere - Jean Francois Salles / ane - www.studionature.com<br />
Page 25 : tetiere - A Maurin<br />
Page 26 : Tetiere - www.studionature / loup - Jean Francois Salles<br />
Page 27 : Tetiere - Belve<strong>de</strong>re <strong>de</strong>s Vautours / vautours - www.studionature<br />
Page 28 : Tetiere - www.studionature / fille - www.studionature / fille - www.studionature<br />
Page 29: Tetiere - Alain Lagrave / Menhir - www.studionature<br />
Page 30 : Tetiere - Jean Francois Salles / statue - www.studionature<br />
Page 31 : Tetiere - vallon du villaret / famille - vallon du villaret / grotte - Grotte <strong>de</strong> Dargilan<br />
Page 32 : Tetiere - Joffre / Dinosaure - www.studionature<br />
Page 33 : Tetiere - MIK / mur - MIK<br />
Page 34 : Tetiere - www.studionature<br />
Page 35 : Tetiere - Alain Lagrave<br />
Page 36 : Tetiere - Eric Teissedre<br />
Page 37 : Tetiere - www.studionature.com / moto et ane - Monika Kleppinger<br />
Page 38 : Tetiere - www.studionature.com / portrait - Samantha Tichet<br />
Page 39 : Tetiere - Lamblin<br />
Page 40 : Tetiere - www.studionature<br />
Page 41 : Tetiere - www.studionature<br />
Page 42 : Tetiere - www.studionature<br />
Page 43 : Tetiere - www.studionature / affiche - foyer ruraux<br />
Page 44 : Tetiere - www.studionature / vaches - Jean Francois Salles<br />
Page 45 : Tetiere - www.studionature / Golf - www.studionature<br />
Page 46 : Tetiere - www.studionature / la gar<strong>de</strong> - Jean Francois Salles<br />
Page 47 : Tetiere - www.studionature<br />
Page 48 : Tetiere - Alain Lagrave / n/B - Nima Yeganefar<br />
Press contact :<br />
Brigitte Donnadieu<br />
Comité Départemental du Tourisme<br />
14, boulevard Henri Bourillon<br />
48001 MENDE CEDEX<br />
Tel. : 0033(0)4 66 65 60 11<br />
Fax : 0033()04 66 49 27 96<br />
Mail : b.donnadieu@lozere-tourisme.com<br />
Website : www.lozere-tourisme.com<br />
Maison <strong>de</strong> la Lozère<br />
1 bis, rue Hautefeuille<br />
75006 PARIS<br />
Tel. : 0033(0)1 43 54 26 64<br />
Fax : 0033(0)1 43 54 55 56<br />
Mail : contact@lozere-a-paris.com<br />
Website : www.lozere-a-paris.com<br />
Rights of reproduction :<br />
Advertising and use (reproduction, representation, broadcast) of photographs are subject to<br />
the provisions set out un<strong>de</strong>r the law of 1 July <strong>19</strong>92 - n° 92-597 pertaining to the Intellectual<br />
Property Co<strong>de</strong> and the provisions of its various enactments. All rights of reproduction and<br />
representation are reserved. All photographs appearing in this document are protected by<br />
intellectual property rights and copyright.<br />
These photographs are used solely for the purpose of illustrating the specific press pack for<br />
Tourism in Lozère.<br />
Asi<strong>de</strong> for this use, none of the photographs may be reproduced, modified, communicated,<br />
broadcast, sold, used for commercial purposes or any other purposes whatsoever without<br />
the prior written consent of the photographer.