When to walk the Chemin de Saint-Gilles

The Chemin de Saint-Gilles (Chemin de Régordane / GR 700) runs from the cool volcanic uplands around Le Puy‑en‑Velay to the warmer Mediterranean plain near Saint‑Gilles. That north–south drop brings real shifts in temperature, wind, and sun exposure as you go.

The ideal months to start the Chemin de Saint-Gilles are late April to early June, or late August to early October. These windows balance kinder temperatures on the Velay and Cévennes with manageable sun and drier days in the south—plus decent daylight and open services.

Late April to early June — best for fresh, green walking

• Why it’s good: Comfortable daytime temperatures, long days, wildflowers on the Velay and Cévennes slopes, and generally lively village services without peak‑summer crowds.
• What to expect: Mixed spring weather. You can get showery spells or a brisk northerly wind, then bright sunshine that dries the paths quickly. Early starts are cool on the uplands; layers and a light rain shell earn their keep.
• Watch outs: A few chilly mornings and the odd thunder shower, especially nearer June.

Late August to early October — best for steady, mellow days

• Why it’s good: Summer heat eases, the sun is still strong but more manageable, and evenings become comfortably cool. Harvest season adds a bit of life to the Languedoc end.
• What to expect: Mostly dry walking with clear air, especially after a breeze. Early October can feel crisp at altitude but pleasant by afternoon on the lower stages.
• Watch outs: The Cévennes sometimes see short, intense autumn downpours. If a stormy day is forecast, start earlier, keep an eye on streams, and have a flexible plan.

High summer (mid‑June to mid‑August) — doable, but hot and exposed

• Expect strong sun and very warm afternoons south of Alès and Nîmes, with long, open stretches and limited shade. Thunderstorms can pop up after hot spells.
• If you go now: Start at first light, take long midday breaks, and carry extra water. A sun hat and reliable sun protection are essential. This is also French holiday season, so it’s busier and pricier around popular towns.

Early spring (March to mid‑April) — unsettled and still chilly up high

• Mixed days with cold mornings on the Velay plateau, lingering frost or a dusting of snow at times, and frequent rain showers between bright spells.
• Some smaller accommodations may run limited hours. Fine if you like quiet trails, but bring warm layers and waterproofs and plan ahead for services.

Late autumn into winter (mid‑October to February) — short days, more wet or wintry spells

• Increasingly changeable weather, with periods of heavy rain in the Cévennes and cooler, damp days towards the coast. On higher ground, expect occasional snow or ice in winter and very short daylight.
• Many places reduce opening hours. Suits experienced walkers who don’t mind tougher conditions and can keep plans flexible.

A few practical notes

• The route climbs early and finishes low: be ready for cooler starts in the north even when the south feels summery.
• Wind is part of the deal. A light windproof helps in both spring and autumn.
• Water can be scarce on some southern stages in summer; refill whenever you can.
• In stormy forecasts (mainly late summer into autumn), avoid narrow ravines and be cautious with river crossings.

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-Gilles, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.