Accueil » On the trails of the Knights Templar in the heart of the Causses du Larzac : 39km +430m

On the trails of the Knights Templar in the heart of the Causses du Larzac : 39km +430m

by admin
Start/Finish

L'Hospitalet-du-Larzac or La Couvertoirade

Distance

39km

Elevation gain

430m

Time

1h45 2h30

Best seasons

Spring & Summer

Difficulty

1/5*

Physical & technical

Immerse yourself in the heart of the Causses du Larzac, on the trails of the Knights Templar and the Hospitaller. This itinerary will take you through numerous trails, delighting gravel enthusiasts along the way.

The itinerary can start from L’Hospitalet-du-Larzac, the starting point of the GPX track, or from La Couvertoirade, which is part of the route.

The second option is ideal if you plan to visit La Couvertoirade after your outing. This fortified village of the Larzac, built by the Knights Templar in the 12th century, is home to restaurants and artisanal shops, making it perfect for a break at the end of your ride and take the time to explore!

aveyron gravel itinéraire destination cycling circuit vélo

The majority of this route takes place on wide dirt and gravel tracks. It is quite smooth, with some elevation gain halfway through the forest. Occasionally, you may be shaken up on the rocky trails, especially the one leading to L’Hospitalet-du-Larzac. However, this itinerary does not encounter any technical difficulties.

There are occasionally very “playful” single tracks that allow for some fun before returning to a steady rhythm on the trails. The route offers open views of the surrounding landscape. On sunny days, it is preferable to start early in the morning to avoid excessive heat.

This itinerary consists of 72% trails and only 28% roads, making it ideal for all skill levels due to its moderate elevation. It is also appealing for experienced cyclists who want to take on the longer 115 km version with a total elevation gain of +2061 m, providing a taste of this magnificent playground. The 115 km route can also be done as a two-day bikepacking adventure.

Note: At L’Hospitalet-du-Larzac, you will find a bike area equipped with the necessary tools for bike repairs, if needed.

Take the time to visit La Couvertoirade once you’ve completed your ride, as it is one of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France” (Most Beautiful Villages of France). I recommend leaving your bike at the car and changing into comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestones.

Overall, this route is very pleasant and without difficulty, making it a perfect opportunity to discover the incredible views of the Causses du Larzac on a slightly shorter outing.

La Couvertoirade 39km
Map & GPX

testé

Parking La Couvertoirade

parking 4€/day

Parking L'Hospitalet-du-Larzac

free parking

Near the itinerary
Best Addresses

(*tested)

RESTAURANTS

La Couvertoirade

Auberge du Chat Perché

Wood-fired grilled dishes, gluten-free vegetarian cuisine, fresh local produce

La Couvertoirade

La Tour Valette

Local specialties, homemade cuisine

La Cavalerie

Restaurant le 12

pizzas, burgers et grilled dishes

Saint-Eulalie-de-Cernon

Auberge La Cardabelle

Local specialties, homemade cuisine

Millau

La Brasserie du Larzac

craft beers

Nant

La Ferme des Homs

Flavored vinegar and salt boutique, condiments, herbs & herbal teas boutique...

ACCOMMODATIONS

La Couvertoirade

Auberge du Chat Perché

Bed & breakfast

La Couvertoirade

Les Mourguettes*

Bed & breakfast

Lapanouse-de-Cernon

Chambres d'Hôtes "Lou Jassou"

Bed & breakfast

Nant

Ferme de Castelneau

Camping

Montlaur

La Boriette du Rougier

Bed & breakfast, cottage

ACTIVITIES

La Couvertoirade

Visit a fortified village*

Visit the fortified village of La Couvertoirade, built in the 12th century by the Knights Templar.

La Couvertoirade

Canalettes

Discover the Canalettes site through a hiking trail, featuring narrow and deep gorges located in Nant.

La Couvertoirade

Couver'Trail'Rade

Come and discover the surroundings during a trail running race or a hiking excursion on Sunday, June 13, 2023.

Roquefort-sur-Soulzon

Roquefort Papillon Caves

Visit the Roquefort Papillon Caves for a free guided tour in Roquefort-sur-Soulzon

La Couvertoirade

GR71

Embark on the GR71 trail, following in the footsteps of the Knights Templar and the Knights Hospitaller, immersing yourself in the time of the Crusades.

SPECIALTY DISHES

  • L'Aligot

  • Le Roquefort

  • Les Tripoux

  • La Soupe au Fromage

  • Les Farçous
  • L'Estofinado

SPECIALTY DESSERTS

  • Le Gâteau à la Broche
  • La Fouace

  • La Flaune

  • Les Échaudés

Tourisme Aveyron

for more info

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Destinations Gravel is much more than just a guide for gravel routes and recommendations for restaurants, hotels, guesthouses, and local businesses; it embodies the richness of our territories and opens the doors to unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re planning your next trip, a weekend getaway, or simply a ride near your home, Destinations Gravel will inspire you.

 

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More than an anonymous reference guide, the routes in Destinations Gravel are tested by @gravel_kim to assist you in choosing your gravel explorations.

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