Lovers of nature at its most compelling will be enchanted by the ever-changing backdrop of the Auvergne and Cévennes opened up by the extraordinary feat of 19th century engineering that is the railway line between Clermont-Ferrand and Nîmes, the so-called Cévenol. Its winding progress through the spectacular Gorges of the Allier, one of the last remaining wild rivers in Europe, otherwise inaccessible for long stretches except on foor or by canoe, make this incontestably one of the most scenic train journeys in France
This is a beautifully varied, multifacteted region, wild, dramatic, still remarkably undiscovered and unspoiled. From the lush plateaux and valleys of the north to the more rugges heath-covered uplands of the Cévennes, the land has been shaped by man, by millions of years of volcanic activity and by rushing, tumbling waters which have carved its deep, narrow gorges. It all makes for a rich eco-system, home to a wealth of flora and fauna, and setting ideally suited to refreshing green tourism, just ripe for exploration
This is also a region blessed with a rich cultural and architectural heritage, officially recognised as a "pays d'art et d'histoire", peppered with picturesque perched villages, castles and Romanesque churches and chapels. It is one of France's most welcoming regions, and the quality and variety of local produce is reflected in traditional and gastronomic cuisine and will provide one of this tour's many lasting memories
This itinerary aims to give a flavour of all these different facets, following the route of the Cévenol south in leisurely stages, with stops in the lovely old town of Issoire, with its rich Auvergnet Romanesque heritage, by the banks of the Allier at Langeac, starting-point of the Gorges, then in the very heart of the Gorges themselves, and finally to lakeside Villefort, a typical old town in the heart of the rugged, relote Cévennes. Our travel pack will provide comprehensive details of walks, visits and other activities to help you make the very most of each stage, tailored to different individual tastes
Day One:
arrival in Issoire with overnight on b & b. Evening free to discover one of many fine restaurants in the old town
Day Two:
Day free to explore the lovely historic centre of Issoire, with its rich architectural heritage centred around the 12th century Romanesque abbey church, or maybe a short return trip to Clermont-Ferrand, the volcano-circled regional capital. Overnight on b & b
Day Three:
Continue to Langeac, a pleasant riverside market town and northern gateway to the Gorges. Both town and the surrounding countryside offer a range of sights and walks. Half-board by the river's edge. (Restaurant closed on Sundays except during Jul/Aug)
Day Four:
Further time to explore, suggested optional combined visit to medieval hilltop Chanteuges and fascinating national salmon-breeding centre on the Allier. Continue later down the Gorges for overnight and gastronomic dinner in Michelin-starred restaurant. (Restaurant closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Day Five:
morning free to explore heart of the Gorges, with programme of optional themed walks to suit different levels and interests. Afternoon continue south to Villefort. Half-board. (Restaurant closed on Mondays & Tuesdays).
Day Six:
day free to explore the Cévennes, with suggested scenic walks around the lake or into the hills, tailored to different levels. Half-board. (Restaurant closed on Mondays & Tuesdays).
Day Seven:
Continue south to Nîmes for connection to TGV and return to UK (No service running early enough for onward connections on a Sunday)