Camino de Santiago - Via Podiensis

Journey through the heart of rural France on the iconic Via Podiensis, where rolling hills, ancient pilgrimage shrines, and timeless villages create an inspiring route from Le Puy-en-Velay to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. Experience the best of the French countryside and culture as you traverse historic market towns, dramatic river valleys, and the legendary Aubrac plateau, all while following in the footsteps of centuries of pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela.

Ideal for long-distance walkers and those seeking a classic pilgrimage adventure, this comprehensive Cicerone guidebook presents the complete Via Podiensis (GR65), described in 28 day-long stages and covering 735km (457 miles) through southern France. Two major variants, the stunning Célé Valley and the evocative Rocamadour route, offer alternative paths, alongside connections to the Camino del Norte, enabling you to tailor your journey to your ambitions and schedule.

• Includes advice for walking the route in sections, making the Via Podiensis accessible whether you have a month or just a week or two to spare.
• Stages are clearly described with distance, ascent/descent, estimated walking times, and difficulty ratings, making it easy to plan each day, whether you’re looking for a gentle pace or a more challenging itinerary.
• Explore the charm of France’s most beautiful villages, including Estaing, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, and Lauzerte, discover world-renowned pilgrimage sites such as Conques and Rocamadour, and enjoy the warm hospitality of local gîtes and inns.
• Each stage ranges from 16–35km (10–22 miles), with cumulative ascent and descent reflecting the varied terrain of southern France.
• The Via Podiensis is best walked from spring through autumn, when fields and valleys are lush, accommodation is plentiful, and local bakeries and cafés welcome pilgrims with delicious regional fare.
• Features 1:100,000 mapping and larger-scale urban maps for key towns, plus free downloadable GPX tracks for every stage, ensuring confident navigation and route-finding throughout your Via Podiensis pilgrimage.
• Each stage description includes an at-a-glance information box with start and finish points, total ascent/descent, accommodation, and refreshment options, perfect for planning your journey along the Chemin du Puy.
• Covers essential planning, fitness, equipment, travel, public transport, and accommodation in pilgrim lodgings, guesthouses, and inns, as well as guidance on food, local customs, and practicalities such as pilgrim credentials and baggage transport.

Plan your pilgrimage on the Via Podiensis with the definitive Cicerone guidebook and discover a route that blends spiritual tradition, French hospitality, and the ever-changing beauty of the southern French countryside, from Le Puy-en-Velay to the gateway of the Pyrenees.