Holidays in Lozere, Languedoc-Rousillon, France

The region of Lozere, 100 kilometres north of the Mediterranean, is often referred to as "the Scotland of France" thanks to its mountainous scenery, lakes and long association with the author Robert Louis Stevenson. Here you are close to all the major tourist attractions of the Mediterranean coast, but far away from the crowds, offering a much more peaceful holiday destination.

Gorges du Tarn

A spectacular canyon, the Gorges du Tarn is best explored from the water, and there are many companies in the area that will arrange either guided or independent canoeing trips. Some stretches of the river are more suitable for white water rafting, though this is usually more fun in autumn and spring when the flow is a bit faster! Once off the water, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails; keep your eyes peeled for one of the many birds of prey that make these mountains their home., You could even follow the pilgrim trail to the historic, religious town on Mende. The town is home to a large cathedral, which dominates a traditional cobbled square.

Spa Towns

Lozere is a great region to visit if you're looking to unwind and relax as there a number of spa towns, served by springs, which start in the nearby mountains. Bagnols-les-Bains, 800m up the slope of Mount Lozere, has been a popular resort since Roman times, though the spa facilities are a little more updated these days. There are also thermal spas at the historic town of La Chaldette, and pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela have been stopping here since the 12th century to take the waters. The natural springs here rise straight out of the volcanic soil.

Walking Routes

If you like to walk, then a visit to Lozere is a must. There are several short hiking trails in the mountains or around the villages, as well as a number of longer and more challenging routes. The historic pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostela passes right through the region, past the shrine of St James, and you can take a three-day walking tour through Lozere following this path. Or you could walk in the footsteps of the writer Robert Louis Stevenson who travelled through the region on a donkey and then wrote about his adventures. You can find details of the route he took through the Cevennes National Park online and print off your own map.