13 March 2025
Lozère: immerse yourself in nature in the “Land of Springs”
Lozère, France’s least populated department, offers an ideal setting for sustainable tourism that honours nature and local traditions. This tour features immersive activities, far from the tourist crowds, promoting soft mobility and authentic encounters.
Cover photo credit: view of Sainte Enimie © CRTL Occitanie / Les_Coflocs
In the heart of the Occitanie region, Lozère is a haven of unspoilt nature. Nicknamed the “Land of Springs“, it stands out for its breathtakingly diverse landscapes: wild mountains, vertiginous gorges, desert plateaus reminiscent of the great American expanses, all bathed in exceptional light. Rich in unique natural and historical heritage, Lozère invites you to slow down, explore, and reconnect with what matters most.
Between Rivers and Canyons: Exploring Lozère by Water
Canoeing is more than a sport in Lozère, it’s a cherished local way of life. From April to October, let the current guide you as you paddle at your own pace through the famous Gorges du Tarn, a masterpiece carved by water and time.
There are several routes to choose from, suitable for all levels:
- Castelbouc – Sainte-Énimie (8 km – 2 hours): a gentle route, ideal for families, passing by troglodyte villages and the medieval ruins of Castelbouc Castle.
- Sainte-Énimie – La Malène (12 km – 4 hours): an iconic route with breathtaking views of hilltop villages, sculpted cliffs, and the legendary Château de La Caze nestled in lush greenery.
Each route reveals unspoilt nature, where limestone cliffs reflect in crystal-clear water, enhancing the landscape. With a mix of calm stretches and gentle rapids, this descent offers an immersive adventure into the heart of wild Lozère.
Hikes to Discover Lozère’s Panoramic Views: Point Sublime
Accessible on foot from Saint-Georges-de-Lévéjac, this trail leads to one of Lozère’s most breathtaking panoramas: Point Sublime. From this viewpoint, perched on the Causse de Sauveterre, you’ll overlook the Cirque des Baumes and its steep cliffs, carved by the Tarn over thousands of years.
High above, the spectacle is breathtaking: griffon vultures circle majestically over the gorges, carried by the air currents. A timeless place where the raw beauty of Lozère stretches as far as the eye can see.
The Causse Méjean: a journey into forgotten lands
Even wilder, the Causse Méjean invites you to venture off the beaten track and hike across its vast limestone steppes. Explore a mineral desert dotted with sinkholes, picturesque villages, and spectacular caves along 100 km of trails. Note, however, that the trail is still being developed, so proper preparation and experience with demanding terrain are strongly recommended.
On the way to the Causse Méjean, be sure to stop at the sheepfolds and farms of the plateau, where Lozère’s cheese-making tradition lives on. For an authentic experience, meet local producers and enjoy a tasting of organic cheeses and wines from the Tarn Gorges region.
Aven Armand: at the source of the Lozère
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Aven Armand is a unique underground gem. Descend into the depths of the Earth aboard a one-of-a-kind funicular and enter a cavern of dizzying dimensions, where the tallest stalagmites in the world rise before you
Beneath the earth, marvel at a forest of over 400 stalagmites, frozen in time for 30 million years. Aven Armand offers a journey through Earth’s deep history, blending underground wonder with a true sensory experience.
Among the clearest starry skies in Europe
In 2018, the Cévennes National Park was designated an International Dark Sky Reserve. Far from artificial lights, the night sky here reveals its full splendour. In Lozère, you’ll find the largest dark sky reserve in Europe, perfect for stargazing and spending a night under the stars. With horizons untouched by light pollution, constellations and nebulae appear in a breathtaking celestial display.
Did you know? 80% of the world’s population no longer experiences natural darkness at night, making Lozère a rare sanctuary for stargazing.
Today, the department is renowned for its raw, unspoilt beauty, a land of wild mountains, spectacular gorges, and desert plateaus reminiscent of the untouched expanses of America, all bathed in unique light. Lozère has everything you need for a true return to your roots in the heart of nature!
Hiking is a rewarding activity, but it comes with risks that shouldn’t be underestimated, such as falls, exhaustion, sudden weather changes, or accidents caused by poor preparation. So how can you prepare properly?
- Choose a route that suits your level and check the weather forecast.
- Pack your bag wisely: bring enough water, food, a map/GPS, a first aid kit, a headlamp, and appropriate clothing (rain, cold, heat).
- Inform a relative or friend of your route and expected time of return.
- Never go alone on isolated trails.
- Respect your body: stay hydrated, take breaks, and know when to turn back if you encounter difficulties.
- Good preparation reduces risks and ensures a safe hike!
Looking to recharge in the heart of nature? Discover our Teritoria residences nestled in the heart of the region on our website and enjoy an authentic stay close to nature. For more inspiration, subscribe to our newsletter and discover other unique experiences to enjoy or give as gifts in our gift shop.
By Emilie Fallot Nguyen
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