Best time of year to walk the Voie de Vézelay/Via Lemovicensis (Bourges)

The Voie de Vézelay, also known as the Via Lemovicensis, offers a stunning route steeped in history and natural beauty. However, like all long-distance walks, the experience can be greatly influenced by the time of year you choose to begin. The best times to start this camino are late to early May, or September to mid-October.

These periods provide a balance of pleasant temperatures, manageable rainfall, and ideal hiking conditions, ensuring your journey is as enjoyable as possible.

Spring: late March, April, early May

Springtime on the Voie de Vézelay is marked by mild weather and the awakening of nature, making it an ideal season to walk.

• Temperatures: The weather is comfortably warm without being too hot, and cold snaps are rare. This makes it easy to enjoy the fresh greenery and blooming landscapes.
• Rainfall: While spring can bring some rain, it is usually light and infrequent, allowing for mostly dry and pleasant hiking days.

Autumn: September, early to mid-October

Autumn on the Voie de Vézelay offers equally appealing conditions, with the added charm of golden foliage and quieter trails.

• Temperatures: Similar to spring, the weather is mild and comfortable, with cooler evenings as October progresses. Extreme heat is highly unlikely during this time of year.
• Rainfall: Autumn is typically drier than spring, making it an excellent option for those who prefer less chance of wet weather.

Why these periods are ideal

1. Avoiding extreme heat: Walking during these months ensures you avoid the discomfort of overly hot weather, which can be a challenge on long hiking days.
2. Bypassing heavy rainfall: The likelihood of prolonged rain or intense storms is significantly reduced, making for a more predictable and enjoyable journey.
3. Comfortable hiking conditions: These times of year offer a great balance of warm days and cooler mornings, with pleasant conditions for covering daily distances.

By starting your camino during these months, you can experience the Voie de Vézelay at its best—enjoying beautiful landscapes, mild weather, and a sense of tranquility that perfectly complements the pilgrimage spirit. Whether you're an experienced hiker or new to the Camino, these periods are ideal for creating a memorable and rewarding journey.

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 Vézelay to Ostabat, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.