Saint-Symphorien: Hiking and Panoramas

Saint-Symphorien offers a range of options for a stay featuring hikes and local activities. The Bel Air route combines a specific distance with views of the landscapes of Haute-Loire; “Le Huit de Saint Symphorien – Trail n°62” includes both a time estimate and a moderate difficulty rating, as well as specified elevation gains. There is also another hike starting in the village. In Chams, activities involving plants, tastings and donkey hikes add to the selection.

Compare hiking routes by time and elevation gain

The Bel Air route is open and marked. It is 8.16 kilometres long and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on your pace. It starts at the main intersection in the centre of Saint-Symphorien; there is a car park near the church for the route. A paved path leads to an information board. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful views of the landscapes of Haute-Loire. The bell tower of the church of Saint-Symphorien is also visible from the route.

“Le Huit de Saint Symphorien – Trail n°62” is a circular route that takes 2 hours and 30 minutes. It is rated moderate and has 598 metres of ascent and 597 metres of descent. The route offers exceptional panoramas across the peaceful, tranquil landscape of the Margeride.

The estimated times are similar: the approximate duration of the Bel Air route depends on your pace, while Le Huit is estimated to take 2 hours and 30 minutes. For comparison, also consider the different distance and elevation details, as well as Le Huit’s difficulty rating. Another hike also starts in Saint-Symphorien.

Plants, tastings and donkey hikes

In Chams, Les Herbes de Margeride grows and gathers organic aromatic and medicinal plants. Gathering plants is a long-standing tradition there. The activities also include a tasting of honey and specialities made with plants from the region.

Les Herbes de Margeride also offers donkey hikes lasting half a day or a full day. Equipment and the route are included. The walks pass through typical Margeride landscapes of valleys and forests. The tasting and donkey hike offer a different focus from the hiking routes described above: the emphasis here is on honey and plant-based specialities, or on a tour with donkeys.

Events and a local symbol

The Foyer rural de St Symphorien usually organises 10 to 15 events a year; 2020 and 2021 were exceptions. The dates of individual events may vary. If you would like to include an event in your stay, check the specific dates in advance.

The bee is also part of the local symbolism: it is a symbol of Saint-Symphorien and is associated with the martyr of Autun. Together with the hiking trails and activities in Chams, this offers a variety of themes to help you plan your trip.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Germain-Du-Teil, Saint-Alban-Sur-Limagnole, Balsièges, Pierrefiche, Lanuéjols, Altier, La Panouse, Marchastel

Return to the main travel overview: Lozère.