When is the best time to start the Voie d’Arles?

The ideal months to start the Voie d’Arles (Via Tolosana) are late March to early May, or late August to early October. These windows sidestep the fiercest summer heat on the Mediterranean plains and avoid lingering winter on the Somport Pass, giving you comfortable walking and more reliable conditions end to end.

This route runs from sun-baked lowlands near Arles into cooler, wetter country and finally the high Pyrenees. Spring brings fresh greenery and long days; early autumn offers settled weather, clear views, and quieter paths.

Late March to early May — Best for many

Spring usually gives comfortable walking temps and fresh, green landscapes from the Camargue through Languedoc and into the Garonne valley.

• What it’s like: bright days mixed with passing showers; cool mornings; hills and fields in bloom.
• Pros: easy temperatures on the lowlands, good daylight, lively towns without peak-season crowds.
• Watch-outs: spring squalls and mud in places; a brisk Mistral can blow in Provence; higher up, the Somport can still see late snow or a cold snap. Keep a flexible day or two near the end.

Late August to early October — The other great window

After mid-summer, the heat on the plains eases and the mountains hold onto warmth a little longer.

• What it’s like: mostly settled, pleasantly warm days; harvest atmosphere through vineyard country; clearer views in the foothills.
• Pros: easier temperatures, fewer storms than high summer, usually straightforward passage over Somport in September.
• Watch-outs: shorter daylight; the first chilly mornings arrive by early October, and a brief early dusting of snow isn’t impossible near the pass. Some lodgings start reducing hours late in October.

May to June — Good if you don’t mind warmth and showers

A green, lively time with long days, but the lowlands heat up and showers become more frequent as you move west.

• Expect warm afternoons, bright mornings, and pop-up storms—especially near the Pyrenees.
• Start early, carry sun protection and water, and plan for a wet day now and then.

July to mid‑August — Hot and exposed on the plains

This is the toughest stretch for heat between Arles, Montpellier, and Toulouse.

• Expect very hot afternoons, limited shade in the garrigue, and the odd violent thunderstorm.
• Feasible with dawn starts and long breaks, but many walkers find it draining. Fire risk can bring temporary trail or forest closures in Mediterranean sections.

Late October to November — Turning wintry in the west

Conditions cool quickly as you approach the mountains.

• More rain and wind on the Atlantic side, short days, and an increasing chance of snow or ice near Somport.
• Some gîtes and services close or switch to limited hours. Possible, but you’ll need flexibility and warmer kit.

December to February — Off‑season

Cold, frequent rain in the lowlands and snow or ice near the pass. Short days and many closures.

• Only suitable if you’re prepared for winter walking and willing to adjust plans around weather and accommodation.

A simple planning tip

Whichever window you choose, pace things so you reach Somport after the worst of winter cold or peak summer heat. In spring, don’t rush the early stages; in late summer, consider earlier daily starts across the lowlands so you arrive at the hills in cooler air.

Of course, while these recommendations provide a solid starting point, everyone's preferences and circumstances are unique. For example, if you prefer walking in the cooler morning hours to avoid midday heat, you might prioritize dates with drier conditions. On the other hand, if you are more accustomed to colder climates, you may choose to avoid hotter periods - even if it means encountering more rain. Our search tool allows you to customize your journey to align with your specific needs and preferences, ensuring the best possible experience on the Camino.

Furthermore, if your plan differs from walking the standard stages from Arles to Somport, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.