Best time to walk the Vía Podiensis (Le Puy–Saint‑Jean‑Pied‑de‑Port)

The Vía Podiensis (Camino de Le Puy / GR 65) crosses cool high plateaus, dry causses, the rolling fields of Gascony, and the damp foothills of the Pyrenees—so timing your start pays off. On the Vía Podiensis from Le Puy‑en‑Velay to Saint‑Jean‑Pied‑de‑Port, the most reliable start window is late April to early May, or late August to mid October. These months balance open services, comfortable temperatures, and fewer heat or storm disruptions.

Below is how those windows stack up against the rest of the year, with plain tips for planning your days.

Late April to early May (spring sweet spot)

• Why it’s good: Days are cool to mild, wildflowers are out, and most gîtes and cafés have reopened after winter. You dodge the worst heat of the south and still enjoy longish daylight.
• What to expect: Mixed skies with passing showers; breezy, chilly mornings on the Aubrac and Margeride; occasional muddy paths after rain.
• Tips: Carry a light insulating layer and a reliable rain shell. Around spring holidays, book beds a little ahead.

Late August and September (summer easing into autumn)

• Why it’s good: The fierce midsummer heat starts to fade, but days are still long and lively. Harvest season adds a nice buzz in the southwest.
• What to expect: Mostly warm, pleasant walking with the odd thunderstorm or short rain burst; cooler mornings; clearer air in the evenings.
• Tips: Start early on exposed stages across the causses and Gers, keep sun protection handy, and plan water stops—shade can be sparse between villages.

Early to mid October (calm, comfortable autumn)

• Why it’s good: Generally mild, settled weather with crisp mornings and colorful landscapes. Crowds thin, and the trail feels unhurried.
• What to expect: More changeable skies than September—sunny spells mixed with showery days; damp grass and occasional fog in valleys; shorter daylight.
• Tips: Layers matter. Some places begin to reduce hours or close toward late October, so check ahead for lodging and meals.

June to mid August (hot, stormy, and busy)

• Why it’s less ideal: Heat builds on exposed stretches, water sources can be spaced out, and afternoon storms pop up, especially after very warm mornings. French holiday season also makes popular stops busy.
• If you go anyway:
  • Start at dawn and finish early.
  • Carry ample water and solid sun protection.
  • Be flexible around short thunderstorm delays.
  • Reserve beds in advance in known bottlenecks.

November to March (winter and early spring)

• Why it’s tough: Short days, frequent rain, and cold spells. The high country above Le Puy can see snow, ice, and strong wind; mud is common lower down. Many gîtes and restaurants close or run limited hours.
• If you go anyway:
  • Plan shorter stages and confirm accommodation day by day.
  • Bring warm layers, waterproofs, and good traction.
  • Be ready to reroute if conditions on the Aubrac turn wintry.

Overall, the Camino de Le Puy rewards walkers most in late spring and from late summer into mid autumn. Pick one of those windows, pack for a mix of sun and showers, and you’ll likely have a comfortable, memorable crossing to Saint‑Jean‑Pied‑de‑Port.

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 Le Puy-en-Velay to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.