The Way of St James in France : From Le Puy-en-Velay to the Pyrenees

France is home to some of the most beautiful stages of the St James Way. The Via Podiensis, starting from the magnificent cathedral town of Le Puy-en-Velay (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), is the most popular French route to Santiago. Over 750 kilometres, it takes you through the volcanic plateaux of Velay, the wild highlands of Aubrac, the medieval gem of Conques, the sun-drenched vineyards of Quercy and the rolling hills of Gascony, before reaching Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port at the foot of the Pyrenees.

This route is far more than a simple walk. It is a journey through the very heart of rural France. Quiet paths, Romanesque churches, welcoming villages and a remarkable gastronomic heritage await you at every turn. With Walks in France, our self-guided walking holidays along the French Way include all accommodation bookings, daily luggage transfer and a detailed route book, leaving you free to enjoy each day at your own rhythm.