Here are four unusual places or events that are sure to surprise you, satisfy your curiosity and help you discover Lozère in a different light. Lozère and its unique charms are revealed…
La Cham des Bondons
In the land of the menhirs
At an altitude of over 1,100 metres, on these limestone hilltops exposed to the full force of the wind, stands one of the largest concentrations of menhirs in Europe, second only to the site at Carnac. Nearly 150 granite menhirs, ranging in height from 1.5 m to 5.5 m, have been recorded here. Other protohistoric remains, such as dolmens and burial mounds, can also be found there. Unlike the site at Carnac, the menhirs are scattered individually or in small groups, with no apparent pattern. And although a quarry containing several menhirs currently being extracted has been discovered nearby, their presence remains a mystery, fuelling legends such as that of a phallic cult dedicated to fertility.
La Garde-Guérin
A medieval town surrounded by nature
Situated near the ancient Roman road known as La Régordane, La Garde-Guérin was established as a fortified town as early as the 12th century. Listed as a historic monument and one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France’, it was fully restored in the 1960s and 1970s. Thanks to the work of the G.A.R.D.E. association, its collection of medieval-style houses and narrow streets is the focus of guided tours. The village also hosts a wide range of events during the summer.
The Aubrac
The Déroc Waterfall
Serving as an outlet for the waters of Lac des Salhiens – a glacial lake with silvery reflections – it plunges from the top of a basalt cliff formed by ancient lava flows. In a setting that contrasts sharply with the vast expanses of the Aubrac, its waters plunge 32 metres down to flow into a peaceful stream. Offering a pleasant walk, a visit to the Déroc waterfall can be accessed via the D52 or ‘Route des Lacs’. Winding its way through fields, the path leads to the very top of the cliff, where you can enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of the Marchastel region, the glacial valley of the Gambaïse stream, with the vast expanses of the Lozère granite Aubrac in the background.
The Détours du monde festival
A cultural hub in Lozère
Featuring a diverse programme of performances and productions from here and further afield, the Détours du Monde festival focuses on bringing people together and takes place in Chanac at the end of July. Bringing together vibrant and popular cultures, and fostering encounters between artists, audiences, travellers, activists and speakers, Détours du Monde offers a highlight of the year, driven by a passion for the performing arts. With a cosmopolitan vision that transcends social and ethnic boundaries, the festival inspires a desire to experience the fleeting moment of creation… Through a vast world market, the public will discover flavours and craftsmanship from different continents. Workshops on popular expression and performance-based talks… will further enrich these exchanges.
Thematics
