The Via Podiensis, also known as Le Chemin du Puy, is one of the great historic pilgrimage routes through France. Beginning in the spectacular town of Le Puy-en-Velay, it follows the GR65 through the volcanic landscapes of the Velay, across the peaceful Aubrac plateau, through the Lot River Valley, and eventually toward the Pyrenees and Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, where it connects with the Camino Francés into Spain.
The route passes through beautiful medieval towns and villages, ancient churches, and countryside that changes constantly along the way. Conques was particularly memorable, and Pat and I chose it for a rest day, giving us time to enjoy this remarkable pilgrimage town rather than simply walking through it. Cahors and the surrounding Lot Valley were other highlights.
Pat and I walked the route from Le Puy-en-Velay to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. It was a distinctly different Camino experience—quieter paths, beautiful French villages, wonderful landscapes, and, of course, the pleasures of French cuisine and freshly baked breads and pastries along the way. The combination of walking, history, food, and the familiar rhythm of moving from village to village made this a Camino with a character all its own.
Via Podiensis (Le Puy Route) across France. Map: HK kng / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Camino Mystic 