A guidebook to the Robert Louis Stevenson Trail (GR70) from Le-Puy-en-Velay to Als. Covering 272km (169 miles), this long-distance trek through the Cvennes region on the edge of France's Massif Central follows in the footsteps of writer Robert Louis Stevenson and his donkey Modestine. The trail takes around 2 weeks to hike and is suitable for both first-time and experienced trekkers. The route is described from north to south in 12 stages, each between 16 and 30km (1017 miles) in length. A brief account of Robert Louis Stevenson's experiences on that section of the route is included for each stage. GPX files available to download 1:50,000 maps included for each stage Detailed information about accommodation, campsites and facilities along the route Advice on planning and preparation
Follow in the footsteps of one of literature's great wanderers on the Robert Louis Stevenson Trail (GR70), a classic long-distance walk through the Cévennes and Massif Central of southern France. Stretching approximately 272 km (169 miles) from Le-Puy-en-Velay to Alès, this route takes around two weeks to complete and offers a unique blend of cultural history, rural charm and enduring landscapes that engage walkers from start to finish.
Whether you are new to multi-day trekking or an experienced hiker looking for a journey rich in narrative and scenery, this route delivers. The guidebook features clear, stage-by-stage route descriptions from north to south, bringing together the practical essentials and the stories that make this walk so special. Each stage includes a brief account of Robert Louis Stevenson's experiences with his donkey, Modestine, allowing you to connect with the original journey that inspired one of the great travel classics, Travels with a Donkey in the Cévennes.
- Route guidance is presented for the Robert Louis Stevenson Trail in 12 stages, each between 16 km and 30 km (10?17 miles) in length, with clear mapping, elevation profiles and walking notes so you can plan each day's walk with confidence
- Practical advice on planning, preparation, when to walk and what to take ensures you're ready for the French terrain ranging from gently undulating farmland and chestnut woods to wildflower meadows and limestone gorges
- GPX files are available to download, and 1:50,000 maps are included for every stage, supporting both traditional and digital navigation on this literary long-distance trail
- Comprehensive facilities, accommodation and campsite listings help you find welcoming places to stay each night of your journey from Le-Puy-en-Velay to Alès, including village inns to rural gîtes
- Insight into local culture, history and points of interest enriches your journey, from rivers and high ridges to traditional villages where French rural life continues much as it did in Stevenson's day
From the volcanic landscapes above Le-Puy to the rolling hills and rivers of the Cévennes, the GR70 reveals a lesser-known corner of France that is as captivating as any of its more famous trails. With its blend of literary heritage, welcoming communities and scenic diversity, the Robert Louis Stevenson Trail offers hikers a long-distance walking adventure. This guidebook gives you all the tools you need to walk the route confidently, enjoy the journey and discover the enduring appeal of a trail walked by one of the world's great storytellers.
