The best hiking routes in Parc naturel régional de l'Aubrac

The Parc naturel régional de l'Aubrac is a high volcanic and granitic plateau, characterized by vast, undulating pastures rather than dramatic peaks or deep gorges. Walking here means traversing open, grassy expanses situated between 1,000 and 1,400 meters above sea level, where the horizon is shaped by gentle domes and low stone walls called drailles. These ancient stone-lined tracks, historically used for moving cattle, dictate many of the walking routes.

Underfoot, the terrain alternates between firm, weathered granite tracks and spongy peat bogs, particularly around the natural glacial lakes like Lac de Saint-Andéol. In May, the pastures transform as wild daffodils and narcissi bloom across the damp grasslands, a distinct feature of this high-altitude basalt plateau. The lack of dense forest cover means walkers are exposed to the elements, with trees mostly limited to isolated beech groves on the slopes.

This landscape is shaped entirely by traditional pastoral farming, which keeps the scrub from taking over. While the main paths like the Chemin de Saint-Jacques can be busy with pilgrims, the side trails across the communal pastures offer a much quieter experience of this rural, working plateau.