A breathtaking new long-distance hiking route has been unveiled in southern France, inviting adventurers to explore the stunning Gorges du Tarn. The 300km GR736 stretches from the Tarn River's source in the Cévennes national park to Albi, with a particularly dramatic three-day section running directly through the gorge itself.
The Gorges du Tarn stands as Europe's longest and most dramatic canyon, a 53km limestone gully where towering cliffs can rise up to 500 metres above the meandering jade-green river. The river's pristine clarity allows for remarkable sightings of its aquatic inhabitants, including trout, perch, carp, otters, frogs, toads, and beavers.
The GR736 route offers a journey through history and architecture, with medieval towns, abandoned hamlets, deserted churches, and ruined castles accessible only via 'balcon' paths carved into the gorge walls. Notable stops include Castelbouc, with its castle remnants, and Sainte-Enimie, one of France's 'plus beaux villages', boasting charming honey-coloured houses and cobbled streets.
The hiking experience is designed to be accessible, with services such as daily luggage transport alleviating the need for bulky backpacks. Hikers typically cover 10 to 15 miles a day, traversing diverse landscapes from heathery uplands to wildflower meadows and forests before descending into the dramatic gorge.
The route promises not only physical challenge but also a deep immersion in a unique cultural and natural environment. From sulphurous-yellow rocks and moss-covered trees to unexpected human-made curiosities like a cable-and-basket system for hoisting goods over the river at Hauterives, every turn offers a new discovery. Dining experiences often feature local delicacies such as Tarn-caught trout.
The introduction of the GR736 has revitalised local communities, with many village residents turning to tourism and hospitality work to support themselves and their families. As hikers explore this captivating region, they will not only be experiencing France's natural beauty but also contributing to its economic vitality.