This is a marked petite randonnée of about 9 km starting at the village of Gourgas and climbing more than 500 m. It is officially classed as Moyen Difficulté. For those who do not want to undertake such a significant climb a much shorter, flatter walk will also be possible, from the same starting point.
This is a well-known circular walk, starting in the village of Gourgas. We have talked about doing this walk, but have never done it – it is well-marked, and a brochure is available from the tourist office.
The walk sets off west from the village, climbing continuously until it joins the GR route from Soubes, about half way up to the plateau. Some of this ascent is steep and stony – this is the most taxing part of the walk. From here we turn back towards the north-east, and then follow a long path at the same general level all the way round the bowl of hills behind the village. The path goes up and down a lot but stays half way up the hillside, below the cliffs. Finally there is a long descent back to the village, on wide forest tracks. The overall walk is about 9 km, and will take at least 3 hours.
The forecast for this week is good – sunny, not too hot and not too windy.
As usual we shall meet at the Luteva Cinema at 9:50, ready to depart at 10:00. The walk will start from the signposted parking area in Gourgas, at about 10:20. We should be back in Lodeve by 15:00.
Leader: Andrew
Distance: 9 km, climb >500 m, sometimes steep
Bring: Good shoes, snack.
In addition: For those who do not want to undertake an arduous walk, there will also be a much easier walk starting from the same spot. This is a circular walk to St Etienne and back, about 5 km and climbing only 50 m, all on quiet roads. This group should be back in Lodeve by 13:00.
Leader: Martin
Distance: 5 km, climb 50 m
Lodeve Thursday Walkers 