When is the best time to walk the Vía Podiensis (Le Puy to Saint‑Jean‑Pied‑de‑Port)?

On the Vía Podiensis (Camino de Le Puy / GR 65), the most reliable start window is late April to early May, or late August to early October. These periods bring comfortable temperatures, longer daylight, lively but manageable trail traffic, and either spring greens or autumn color. Summer can run hot and stormy, especially on exposed sections; winter brings snow, ice, and short days on the high plateaus.

This route crosses varied terrain and climates—from the cool, wind‑exposed Aubrac and Margeride out of Le Puy, through the Lot and causses, into warmer rolling country and finally the Pyrenees—so expect some swings in weather even in the “good” months.

Late April to early May — fresh, green, and great for walking

• Why it works: Mild days, cool nights, wildflowers, reliable water, and plenty of open services.
• What you’ll see: Sunny intervals mixed with passing showers; the plateaus can still feel brisk and windy early in this window.
• Tips: Pack a good rain shell and a warm mid‑layer; trails may be muddy after rain. Watch French public holidays for busier nights.

June — long days with more volatility

• Upside: Bright mornings and a fully open accommodation network.
• Trade‑offs: Showery, storm‑prone afternoons and the first real hot spells on exposed causses and road sections.
• Strategy: Start early, carry sun protection, and plan breaks if thunderclouds build.

July to mid‑August — hot and busy

• Main challenge: Heat. Expect very warm afternoons and the odd brief, intense storm.
• Logistics: Peak holiday season; book ahead in popular towns.
• If you go: Walk at first light, top up water whenever you can, and consider shorter stages on the hottest days.

Late August and September — settled, comfortable, and scenic

• Why it’s a sweet spot: Heat eases, weather steadies, and mornings turn pleasantly crisp while afternoons remain warm.
• Atmosphere: Golden fields and harvest activity through Gascony; occasional quick‑moving showers or storms.
• Logistics: Post‑holiday lull makes finding beds easier.

Early October — cool mornings, clear air, autumn color

• Feel: Quiet paths, mild walking temperatures, and great visibility on the high ground.
• Watch‑outs: Daylight shortens and rain days creep up as the month advances; a few rural places begin reducing hours later in October.

Mid‑ to late October and November — edging into off‑season

• Conditions: More frequent rain, chilly starts, and fog in valleys and on the plateaus. Still very walkable with good kit.
• Services: Some gîtes and cafés close midweek; plan stages and call ahead.

December to March — winter mode

• Weather: Snow and ice are common on Aubrac/Margeride; elsewhere it’s a mix of cold rain, sleet, and occasional bright days.
• Practicalities: Short daylight and limited accommodation. Best left to experienced winter walkers who are self‑reliant.

Spring vs autumn — quick chooser

• Pick late April/early May for green hills, wildflowers, and lively villages, accepting some showers and cool winds up high.
• Pick late August/September/early October for steadier weather, harvest scenery, and quieter paths after the summer rush.

Whatever your dates, carry a solid rain layer, a warm mid‑layer for the plateaus, sun protection for exposed stretches, and enough water for longer gaps between fountains.

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.