Saumane: Hiking, History and a Swimming Spot

Saumane is part of the Cévennes National Park. The hiking trails and the history of the village are the main features that shape the destination. The trails have different starting and ending points, while the historical traces span several periods. If you’re looking for a hotel for your stay in Saumane, these themes can help you decide what to focus on during your trip.

Hiking around Saumane

The L’Exil circular trail is 13 kilometres long, is classified as easy, and starts and ends in Saumane. Along the way, there are panoramic views of Mont Lozère, the Cévennes and Mont Aigoual. One section follows a former royal road, where original retaining walls, aqueducts and milestones have been preserved. The loop therefore combines a clearly specified distance with scenic views and traces of the route’s history. Check the road sections and mountain conditions before setting out.

Le Soult also passes through Saumane, but its endpoints are in the neighbouring commune of L’Estréchure: the trail starts and ends there, and also passes through Les Plantiers. The Pont des Chèvres hike runs between Saumane and L’Estréchure, around the Gardon and its historic flood zone. When choosing between these trails, one specific difference is important: L’Exil starts and ends in Saumane, while Le Soult starts and finishes in L’Estréchure. There is a public transport stop less than 500 metres from the starting point of the Pont des Chèvres hike. Check the latest information on the stop and transport before travelling.

Historical traces in the village

Saumane’s history spans several clearly distinct periods. The Church of Sainte Marie de Saumane has been recorded in the cartulary of Saint-Victor de Marseille since 1079, where it appears under the historical name Cella Sancte-Marie de Saumanna. The Temple of Saumane was built in 1875. These two dates provide different chronological reference points for the village’s religious history, but do not refer to the same building history.

Another turning point came in 1703, when Saumane was severely affected by the conflicts between the Camisards and the royal troops. Silk processing dates from a later period in the village’s history. During the golden age of sericulture in the 18th and 19th centuries, two silk mills operated in Saumane. Taken together, these details tell the story of a long historical development—from an early ecclesiastical record through conflict to a local industry. Visitors interested in cultural history can explore several distinct themes, rather than just a single building.

Summer swimming spot

In summer, the village has a designated, supervised swimming spot. As this is a seasonal facility, check the latest operating information before your trip. It offers another way to enjoy the summer, complementing the hiking options without requiring a longer excursion from Saumane.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Gilles, Molières-Cavaillac, Le Vigan, Soustelle, Saint-Félix-De-Pallières, Fressac, Lussan, Aujargues.

For an overview of the wider area: Gard.