Categories: Active Vacations in France, Occitanie, Toulouse Area
Thinking of Hiking the Chemin du Puy and Célé Valley?
What does it really take to hike the Chemin du Puy and explore the lesser-known but stunning Célé Valley in France? This episode of Join Us in France answers that question with real-world insight. Host Annie Sargent talks with Rowena Sjovall, a traveler from Florida who spent two weeks walking solo through this beautiful part of France.
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If you’ve been curious about long-distance hiking routes in France or are looking for tips on hiking GR65, Via Podiensis, or lesser-traveled pilgrimage paths, this one’s for you.
Hiking Services Recommended in this Episode
Why Hike the Chemin du Puy and Célé Valley?
The Chemin du Puy is one of the most famous routes of the Camino de Santiago in France. It stretches from Le Puy-en-Velay to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, passing through rolling hills, historic towns, and picturesque countryside.
Rowena chose to follow this path because she wanted a challenge and a chance to slow down. What made her journey extra special? She added the Célé Valley variant to her route. This detour is a bit more rugged and quiet, with dramatic limestone cliffs and peaceful river views. It’s a part of France few tourists get to see.
A Realistic Look at Solo Hiking in France
Rowena didn’t train for months. She used common sense, packed light, and focused on logistics. She mailed her luggage forward each day with a service called La Malle Postale. That made the walking easier and let her enjoy the scenery without being weighed down.
If you're considering hiking the Chemin du Puy and Célé Valley, her advice is solid: wear trail shoes, not boots. Book ahead during peak times. And don’t worry if you’re not religious—this trail welcomes everyone.
Places You’ll Fall in Love With
Rowena shares the towns that stole her heart. First on the list is Conques, a medieval gem with its Romanesque abbey and cobbled streets. Then there’s Cabrerets, tucked in the Célé Valley, full of charm and surrounded by cliffs. And don’t miss Saint-Côme-d’Olt, another Plus Beaux Village de France with its twisted church steeple and cozy atmosphere.
This hike is not just about walking. It’s about immersing yourself in centuries of history, enjoying regional food, and meeting fellow hikers from around the world.
Practical Tips for Walking the GR65 and Célé Valley
Annie and Rowena dive into all the useful details. They talk about:
- Booking gîtes and chambres d’hôtes ahead of time
- What kind of food to expect (lots of lentils and duck!)
- Daily distances (around 20km per day is common)
- What to do when blisters hit
- Why taking a rest day is not a failure
They also talk about the mental shift that happens when you walk for days on end. You become calmer. More aware. More connected.
Should You Walk the Célé Valley Variant?
If you’re choosing between the classic Chemin du Puy and the Célé Valley variant, Rowena recommends both. But the Célé Valley gives you solitude and scenery that the GR65 doesn’t always offer. You’ll walk along the river, see ancient cave dwellings, and enjoy a quieter path with fewer pilgrims.
She also shares how the signage is different, what to expect in terms of services, and why this detour is absolutely worth it for those who want a bit more adventure.
Listen to the Full Episode
Hiking the Chemin du Puy and Célé Valley can be a life-changing experience. Whether you're planning your first long-distance hike or dreaming from your desk, this episode is packed with honest, helpful insights.
Listen to Episode 550 of Join Us in France to hear Rowena’s full story, laugh at her candid moments (yes, including stinky shoes), and get inspired to lace up your hiking shoes.
Available wherever you get your podcasts or by clicking play above.
Table of Contents for this Episode
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TranscriptCategories: Active Vacations in France, Occitanie, Toulouse Area