Séjour VTTAE Régordane

Schedule

Day 1: Le Puy-en-Velay – Pradelles (48 km; D+ 1200 m)

After the transfer from Rumilly, we begin our journey on the greenway. Starting in the Loire Valley at 600m altitude, the path gradually ascends from Brives-Charensac, with an average slope of 2%. We pass through a few tunnels, including the second, which is 1.3 km long and offers a smooth ride. Once we exit, the Greenway hugs the mountainside, offering stunning views of the Auvergne mountains and Mount Mézenc in the distance. The trail continues through a peaceful and scenic setting, taking us to the gates of Costaros. After this pleasant introduction, we alternate between single tracks and wide paths through fields and pastures.

We begin the day with a nice descent, then cross the Allier River and Langogne before ascending to the plateaus. The landscape opens up magnificently before us. We then pass one of the most famous sections of the Régordane Trail, marked by rocks shaped by the passage of wagons. In the distance, we admire the Chassezac gorges. Afterward, we only have a descent to handle, with the beautiful Villefort Lake as our backdrop!

After a small climb at the exit of Villefort, we enjoy a beautiful descent and a fairly smooth section until we reach Concoules, marking our entrance into the Gard department, where we’ll stay for the rest of the journey. The scenery changes, and we truly feel like we're heading south. We pass through the villages of Génolhac and Pont de Rastel. After a good climb, we reach the magnificent Château de Portes.

We start the day with a relatively easier stage compared to the previous ones. However, a steep climb awaits us to reach the GR700 (via Sauvagnac), followed by a beautiful descent through the forest along the transhumance path. Crossing Alès is relatively pleasant, and we ride along a long greenway, passing through the countryside with vineyards, olive trees, and a few stairs. The stunning village of Vézénobres awaits us.

We continue our journey through the garrigue near a military camp, followed by a technical section! We pass through the village of La Calmette, continue alongside the arenas and the Costières stadium, and then ride along a long road. The final part of our trip takes us along small roads and paths that lead us to Saint-Gilles.

Required equipment

Non-exhaustive list of items to bring to handle any incidents:

Bike: At least a "mid-range" bike to ensure a minimum level of reliability. Important: Make sure to have a full bike check-up before departure.

Cycling Gear:
- Helmet, gloves, sunglasses, rain jacket, and warm clothing.

Maintenance Tools:
- "Multi-tools" set.
- If using inner tube tires: 2 spare inner tubes + a patch kit + glue for patches.
- If using tubeless tires: puncture sealant + a spare inner tube with a small valve (as a backup).
- If using disc brakes: 1 spare pair of brake pads.
- 1 rear derailleur cable.
- Chain and derailleur lubricant (bottle/spray).
- 1 pump.

Personal Items:
- Toiletries, extra clothes, small first-aid kit, etc.