The best walks and hikes around Fournels

There are over 40 hiking routes around Fournels, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These trails explore the diverse landscapes of the Lozère department, including dramatic gorges, expansive plateaus, and mixed forests.

The terrain around Fournels is highly varied. You'll encounter dramatic river gorges like the Gorges du Bès and Gorges de la Truyère, featuring steep rocky cliffs and river-carved valleys. The region also includes the expansive Aubrac plateau with its rugged beauty, and the Monts de la Margeride, characterized by sparse meadows and Scots pine forests. Trails can range from gentle paths to more challenging ascents.

Yes, Fournels offers several easy routes suitable for families. One popular option is The gorges of Bès – loop starting from Morsanges – Aubrac regional natural park, an easy 4.1-mile (6.6 km) trail that takes less than two hours to complete. Another accessible choice is the Fournels Village loop from Fournels, which is 3.6 miles (5.8 km) long and also considered easy.

Hikers can explore several impressive natural features. The Gorges du Bès are a highlight, with diverse landscapes and dramatic valleys. The Gorges de la Truyère also offer grandiose and wild scenery, now home to three successive lakes. You can also discover the expansive Aubrac plateau. For specific landmarks, consider visiting the Gorges of the Bes or the Truyère Gorges. The ruins of the Château d'Arzenc d'Apcher can also be seen from some trails along the Gorges du Bès.

Many of the hiking routes around Fournels are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include The gorges of Bès – loop starting from Morsanges, Gorges of the Bes loop from Maurines, and the Fournels Village loop from Fournels. These loops provide convenient ways to explore the region's beauty.

The hiking trails in Fournels are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers often praise the dramatic river gorges, the expansive plateaus, and the varied forests, highlighting the diverse and engaging experiences available on the routes.

Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, there are several difficult routes. The Fournels Village loop from Chauchailles is a demanding 18.0-mile (29.0 km) trail that takes approximately 8 hours to complete, leading through the Aubrac foothills. Another difficult option is the Gorges of the Bes loop from Saint-Juéry, a 12.6-mile (20.3 km) route with significant elevation changes.

The region around Fournels offers beautiful hiking opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn generally provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with spring bringing wildflowers and autumn showcasing rich foliage. Summer is also popular, though some trails might be warmer. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions can vary, especially on higher ground like the Aubrac plateau, so checking local weather and trail conditions is advisable.

The village of Fournels itself offers amenities, including cafes and pubs. For a wellness break, the La Chaldette Thermal Station is located nearby at 1,000 meters altitude. You can also find local experiences like workshops at the Ferme du Verdier or visit farms in Laguiole. For water activities and dining, the Base Nautique de Lanau in the Truyère gorges is an option.

Parking is generally available at the starting points of many trails. For example, routes exploring the Gorges du Bès often start from villages like Morsanges, Maurines, and Saint-Juéry, where parking facilities are typically provided for hikers. For routes around Fournels village, parking can usually be found within or on the outskirts of the village.

While specific public transport links directly to every trailhead might be limited, Fournels is a commune in the Lozère department. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or regional transport options that connect to Fournels village or nearby towns. From these points, some trailheads might be accessible on foot or via short taxi rides. Planning ahead is recommended for public transport access.