The Loire from ocean to source – GR 3 between Chabreloche and Puy-en-Velay
The Loire from ocean to source – GR 3 between Chabreloche and Puy-en-Velay
Hiking Collection by
The Loire from ocean to source – GR 3 between Chabreloche and Puy-en-Velay
8 days
5-10 h/day
172km
4,950m
4,890m
This Collection traces the GR 3 between Chabreloche and Le Puy-en-Velay. At the start of your journey, the Loire is nowhere to be seen. Instead, you explore the heart of Livradois-Forez and its network of ancient volcanic peaks, with panoramic views from the Chaîne des Puys in the west to the Alps in the east. The abundant forests are home to a remarkable array of flora and fauna. If you’re quiet on the trails, you can spot diverse wildlife.
This route is fascinating for history and culture buffs. Fortresses line the Loire River in Retournac, inviting you to delve into a bygone era. The scenic views from the top of the tallest towers are on par with the panoramas from the dormant volcanoes in the Velay region.
The highlight of your visit is the famous, picturesque town of Le Puy-en-Velay. Visited every year by thousands of pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela, it has a mystical allure. Don't forget to make an early visit to Notre-Dame Cathedral for the pilgrims' blessing, an open prayer that no long-distance walker should miss.
To get to Chabreloche, the SNCF runs daily coach services to Clermont-Ferrand. On the return journey, trains run daily from Le Puy-en-Velay to Saint-Étienne or Clermont-Ferrand.
On this section of the GR 3, accommodation isn’t abundant, so remember to book in advance. At the end of stages 1, 2, 5 and 6, I suggest a wild camping. If you wish, you can also pitch your tent on the other stages as long as you respect nature and residents and leave no trace.
With its easy trails, this section of the GR 3 is hikeable year-round. In summer, the wind can mask the heat, so don't forget to cover your head and hydrate regularly. As the route exceeds 1,000 metres (3,200 ft) in elevation, you may encounter snow in winter. Pack clothing for cold and wet weather.
Enjoy your trip!
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Useful links :
In this Collection, I refer to the notes in my notebook. Check out my blog (in French) for more info: simonwicart.com
The first stage of the GR 3 between La Baule-Escoublac and Nantes: komoot.com/collection/2156818
The second stage of the GR 3 between Nantes and Angers: komoot.com/collection/2163827
The third stage of the GR 3 between Angers and Tours :
komoot.com/collection/2179022
The fourth stage of the GR 3 between Tours and Orléans:
komoot.com/collection/2229146
The fifth stage of the GR 3 between Orléans and Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire: komoot.com/collection/2233411
The sixth stage of the GR 3 between Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire and Gilly-sur-Loire :
komoot.com/collection/2241236
The seventh stage of the GR 3 between Gilly-sur-Loire and Chabreloche: komoot.com/collection/2365860
Visibility:
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The Loire, from the ocean to its source — The GR 3
166km
4,470m
4,420m
Last updated: November 6, 2024
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Activities
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Expert hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Collection Stats
Activities
8
Distance
172 km
Duration
60:59 h
Elevation
4,950 m
4,890 m
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