Discover the Margeride: a hidden gem, a land of silence and whispers. Let yourself be swept away by the serenity of these surroundings. Set off to explore this haven of peace, where outdoor activities, heritage and history come together.
From Langogne to Malzieu via Châteauneuf-de-Randon, this part of Lozère invites you to discover a region that has retained its authentic character. Nestled between Lozère, Cantal and Haute-Loire, the Margeride Mountains boast unique landscapes: forests stretching as far as the eye can see, large lakes, granite outcrops, rivers and peat bogs… The altitude here ranges from 1,000 to 1,500 metres. This region in the south of the Massif Central is also known for its history, notably the story of the Beast of Gévaudan. Its unspoilt flora and fauna further enhance its reputation. What could be better than spending a holiday here with family, on your own or with friends?
Discover the Margeride
in Lozère
Le Malzieu, a medieval town
Strolling through the cobbled streets of Malzieu is like stepping back into the Middle Ages. Amidst its ramparts, fortified towers and superbly restored gates, follow the historical trail that will give you an in-depth understanding of the town, nestled on the banks of the Truyère. You’ll discover Malzieu’s history, from the Middle Ages to the Mont-Mouchet maquis, via the Wars of Religion and the Beast of Gévaudan. Immerse yourself in the heart of the Middle Ages with the Malzieu Medieval Festival: for a few days, the village is transformed and returns to the Middle Ages! Around every corner, you’ll find free musical, theatrical, comedy and circus performances, as well as parades and medieval encampments…
Langogne
Not far from the Haute-Loire, the town of Langogne is renowned for its magnificent weekly market and its exceptional natural surroundings. Stroll through its narrow streets, explore its museum dedicated to the world of wool in days gone by, and make the most of its proximity to the magnificent Lake Naussac.
The other villages
When visiting the Margeride, the villages of Châteauneuf-de-Randon and Saint-Chély-d’Apcher are unmissable. As a testament to the history of this part of the Lozère, the narrow streets and squares of these villages have some lovely surprises in store for you. With their shops, cultural heritage and legends, do take the time to explore – because here, time stands still.
Les Bouviers Outdoor
Recreation Centre
Ah, Canada! Forests stretching as far as the eye can see, lakes with silvery glints… In short, nature in its purest form! It’s the stuff of dreams, but it’s so far away… What if we told you that a complete change of scenery awaits you somewhere in Margeride, right here, within easy reach? Head to Les Bouviers, a village of chalets surrounded by beech and spruce trees. Summer or winter, a warm and welcoming atmosphere is guaranteed! Rumour even has it that the largest chalets are fitted with saunas.
Lake Charpal
There’s a distinct Canadian feel to the air here, and Lake Charpal leaves every visitor speechless. Situated near Mende, it offers a complete change of scenery. In every season, it reveals a different side to itself. To explore its unspoilt natural surroundings, make the most of its 9km-long marked trail for a walk or a mountain bike ride. As France’s largest no-kill fishing lake, it is also the perfect spot for anglers.
Lake Naussac
No visit to the Margeride is complete without a day at Lake Naussac. Covering 1,050 hectares, Lozère’s largest lake has something for everyone, young and old alike. To start with, enjoy a picnic on the beach with delicious produce from the market. Then, it’s your choice of activities. Fancy canoeing, catamaran sailing, sailing or stand-up paddleboarding? Fishing, swimming or simply lazing in the sun? A walk, a ride on an electric scooter or a cycle ride? The hardest part is choosing!
We’re setting off to explore a part of Lozère we haven’t yet discovered: this high granite plateau with its forests, plains and rolling countryside. I’m talking, of course, about the Margeride. This part of Lozère has completely charmed us, and yet it would seem to be the least well-known part of the department. In the end, perhaps that’s what gives it its charm – this nature that’s still pure and wild. We’re taking you on a weekend trip to the heart of the Margeride!
The Beast of Gévaudan: myth or reality?
You’ve no doubt heard of the famous Beast of Gévaudan. It wreaked havoc from 1764 to 1767, with a series of attacks that sent shockwaves through the Margeride region. A wolf? A dog? A wolf-dog? A serial killer? 250 years on, the mystery remains unsolved… If you’d like to follow in its footsteps, live the experience and follow our guide to discover the sites linked to its story. The Gévaudan Wolves Park, Château de la Baume, Mercoire Forest, the Gévaudan Museum and many other sites may – or may not – provide you with some answers…
Things to do in Margeride
Cycling or walking?
If, for you, a route worth exploring must have an elevation gain of at least three figures, or a distance of four figures, then you’ve come to the right place. And if that’s not the case?
Don’t worry – the variety of our trails means you can find a hike
to suit your ability.
The Wolves of Gévaudan
Meet the stars of the Margeride: the Gévaudan wolves, which live in semi-freedom. Here you can see wolves from Siberia, Mongolia, the Arctic, Poland and Canada. If we may offer a tip, during the height of the summer heat, it’s best to visit in the morning to get a closer look at them. A unique experience that teaches you more about these legendary animals and has been delighting young and old alike for years. They even sometimes howl… with joy! You can even spend the night there facing the Polish wolves – a truly unique experience.
The Limestone Quarry Spinning Mill
“Working during the holidays? That’s not fair!” Put your children’s minds at ease straight away – the Filature des Calquières in Langogne is much more fun than the same old holiday workbook! Accompanied by the coachman Filasse and his mare Bobine, the tour begins with a film screening. It’s a chance to trace the ‘thread’ of history and discover the secrets of France’s oldest spinning mill. Next up is a tour of the spinning mill itself, where the mysterious machines seem frozen in time…
The European Bison Reserve
Situated at an altitude of 1,400 metres in Sainte-Eulalie, the European Bison Reserve has some wonderful surprises in store for you. These huge, fluffy creatures with thick coats can weigh up to… 800 kilos, stand 2 metres at the withers and measure 3 metres in length! With measurements like that, it’s no wonder they’re the largest land mammals on our continent! But even at that size, when they’re playing in the snow or on dry land, it’s hard not to be charmed by the sight…
Scénovision
Auguste is the local postman. The one everyone knows. But now that retirement is just around the corner, he’s looking for someone to take over from him… And he’s thought of you! Before lending you his motorbike, however, he’s keen to share ‘his’ Margeride with you. Take a seat in the post office – the show is about to begin. This immersive museum offers you a unique journey through the history of Saint-Alban-sur-Limagnole and the Margeride.
Must-see photo spots
PANORAMA FROM THE SUBLIME POINT
Panoramas
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Unique experiences
Make the most of a break in the Gorges de la Jonte to set off on new adventures. Whether it’s a family visit, a road trip, a sporting outing or an ecotourism trip, whatever the season, plan your break by booking some unique experiences.
Family discovery tours
The Margeride is a hidden land, a land of silence and whispers. It’s best to be in a group to admire the spectacle, by turns magical and mystical! This natural region is brought to life by the paths and small roads that criss-cross it, alongside the many streams and rivers such as the Truyère – a favourite with anglers – which, as the seasons change, are blanketed with heather or daffodils…
Staying in Margeride
Local cuisine and markets
Strolling amongst the market stalls is the main attraction when you visit Margeride. In Langogne, with its authentic and colourful market, it’s easy to spend hours there. Inside the market hall, the scent of fruit and vegetables fills the air. Of course, this isn’t the only market offering excellent local and seasonal produce on its stalls.
Accommodation in Margeride
Fancy a change of scenery in accommodation in the heart of the Margeride? Give it a go and book your bed and breakfast, holiday cottage, self-catering accommodation, hotel room, stopover gîte, camping pitch or room in a holiday village.
Bed and breakfasts
Bed and breakfasts
Bed and breakfasts
Bed and breakfasts
Bed and breakfasts
Hotels – restaurant
Hotels – restaurant
Hotels – restaurant
Hotels – restaurant
Hotels – restaurant
Hotels – restaurant
2 stars Hotels – restaurant
Graded campsite
Graded campsite
Graded campsite
Graded campsite
Graded campsite
Graded campsite
2 stars Graded campsite
Graded campsite
2 stars Graded campsite
3 stars Graded campsite
CAMPING MUNICIPAL AU BORD DE L’EAU
Graded campsite
3 stars Graded campsite
3 stars Rental in village
3 stars Rental in village
How do I get there?
- By car from Mende, Sainte-Enimie, Florac, La Canourgue, Villefort, Langogne and Aumont-Aubrac
- By car: Paris, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Montpellier, Lyon, Marseille, Nîmes
- By train, on the Train de l’Aubrac line
- By bus with liO
- By tourist shuttle: in July and August, minibuses criss-cross the Lozère in every direction!
- Nearest airports: Rodez, Clermont-Ferrand, Nîmes, Montpellier, Marseille, Lyon, Toulouse
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average altitude of the Margeride Plateau?
At an altitude of around 1,000 metres.
