Hiking In The Jonte Gorges: Beautiful Panoramas And Immersion Among Vultures
Published on 13-08-2024
What about a day trip to the Jonte Gorges? This one will take you between imposing cliffs and breathtaking views, and let you admire the aerial dance of vultures. To satisfy your curiosity about the local wildlife, you will finish with a fascinating visit to the museum of Vultures (Maison des Vautours). If you're staying at the Grand Hôtel du Parc, set off on your adventure from Florac-Trois-Rivières, just 1 hour's drive away from your arrival point.
This place is a must-see in the region, so put your sneakers on and get ready to be amazed!
Jonte Gorges Hike: Fabulous Views In The Heart Of Nature
Nature lovers and adventurers, you will most likely be delighted with this tour of the Jonte Gorges (Gorges de la Jonte) we are introducing to you today. After an energetic breakfast at the Grand Hôtel du Parc, set off for Le Rozier, where you will find the starting point for one of the most emblematic walks in the Jonte Gorges: the Corniches trail (sentier des Corniches). You're in for a 5–6-hour hike… and quite a bit of climbing!
Upon leaving the village, head towards Capluc and park in the parking lot under the antenna. From here, start your itinerary by following the track which passes in front of the houses. For the most adventurous and thrill-seekers of you, try climbing the Capluc Rock (Rocher de Capluc), a boulder with ladders, offering breathtaking views of the Jonte Gorges.
After this half-hour challenge, continue along the GR® 6 trail through the forest. The trail takes you on a cliff-side balcony above ancient agricultural terraces, offering splendid views of the Tarn Gorges and Le Rozier. You'll walk through a majestic pine forest, nestled beneath the imposing cliffs of the Causse Méjean.
As you enter the Causse Méjean forest, follow the crossroads to leave the Tarn side and walk to the Jonte in the direction of Cassagnes. The path gradually descends through the forest, and the landscape opens out onto the Jonte Gorges, formed by the cliffs of the Causse Noir and the Causse Méjean. No doubt the ideal moment for a refreshing break or a picnic.
Upon leaving the village, head towards Capluc and park in the parking lot under the antenna. From here, start your itinerary by following the track which passes in front of the houses. For the most adventurous and thrill-seekers of you, try climbing the Capluc Rock (Rocher de Capluc), a boulder with ladders, offering breathtaking views of the Jonte Gorges.
After this half-hour challenge, continue along the GR® 6 trail through the forest. The trail takes you on a cliff-side balcony above ancient agricultural terraces, offering splendid views of the Tarn Gorges and Le Rozier. You'll walk through a majestic pine forest, nestled beneath the imposing cliffs of the Causse Méjean.
As you enter the Causse Méjean forest, follow the crossroads to leave the Tarn side and walk to the Jonte in the direction of Cassagnes. The path gradually descends through the forest, and the landscape opens out onto the Jonte Gorges, formed by the cliffs of the Causse Noir and the Causse Méjean. No doubt the ideal moment for a refreshing break or a picnic.
Where To See Vultures In The Gorges?
Whether you're on the clifftop trail or in the valley, the Jonte Gorges are the ideal place to observe vultures, especially at the lookout point called Belvédère des Vautours. Spyglasses set out on panoramic terraces enable you to see these emblematic birds of the Grands Causses at close quarters.
Head for the Jonte ledges in the direction of Le Rozier and follow the trail GR® de Pays. You'll arrive at the Belvédère des Vautours, the perfect area to admire these majestic birds of prey whirling around near to the rock faces. This panoramic view is stunning! The Maison des Vautours’ site, which you can visit at the end of the day, is just below, close to the hamlet of Truel.
Going on your way, you will pass between the cliff and the famous Sèvres and China vases, which are two astonishing, natural sculptures. End the hike, leaving the trail GR® on the right after these rocks. Then, go back down via the GR® 6 and follow the path to Le Rozier along the same route as the outward trip.
Going on your way, you will pass between the cliff and the famous Sèvres and China vases, which are two astonishing, natural sculptures. End the hike, leaving the trail GR® on the right after these rocks. Then, go back down via the GR® 6 and follow the path to Le Rozier along the same route as the outward trip.
Maison des Vautours: Meet These Giants of the Sky
After your hike, visit the Maison des Vautours to discover the characteristics of these large birds that you may have spotted on your walk. Founded in 1986, this site aims to raise public awareness of vulture preservation, following their successful reintroduction to the region.
During your 2-hour visit, you can observe four different species: Eurasian griffon vultures, Cinereous vultures, Egyptian vultures and bearded vultures. Interactive exhibits and observation platforms allow you to admire these impressive birds of prey in their natural habitat.
Thanks to this educational and immersive experience, you will leave with a unique perspective on vultures and a better understanding of their essential role in the ecosystem of the Grands Causses.
During your 2-hour visit, you can observe four different species: Eurasian griffon vultures, Cinereous vultures, Egyptian vultures and bearded vultures. Interactive exhibits and observation platforms allow you to admire these impressive birds of prey in their natural habitat.
Thanks to this educational and immersive experience, you will leave with a unique perspective on vultures and a better understanding of their essential role in the ecosystem of the Grands Causses.
Practical Information
Opening times:
Last admission 1 hour before closing time.
Rates:
Special rates for families and groups are available. For more information, visit the Maison des Vautours' website.
Opening times:
- May, June and September
Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6:30 pm. - July and August
Daily from 10 am to 7 pm.
Last admission 1 hour before closing time.
Rates:
- Adults: €7.50
- Students: €5.50
- Teenager (12-17 years): €4.50
- Children (5-12): €3.50 (free for children under 5)
Special rates for families and groups are available. For more information, visit the Maison des Vautours' website.
After an exciting day full of discoveries, go back to the Grand Hôtel du Parc to enjoy a relaxing late afternoon and take advantage of our swimming pool! Are you a new visitor to this beautiful region? Book your stay with us: enjoy the comfort of our rooms and indulge yourself with a delicious, local dinner.
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