Hiking - Les Bernes - Bourg-Argental No. 1

This trail allows you to discover the Croix de la Pauze, the place where inhabitants of the hamlets of Thélis would lay the coffins of their deceased while waiting for the priest of Bourg-Argental to come up to meet them. You will also see the statue of Saint John Francis Regis, patron saint of walkers and apostle of the Vivarais and the Velay.

Cross the RD1082 and head towards Graix. Before the bridge over the Riotet, take the small paved road on the left; this is the GR42 trail. Follow the red and white trail markers for 2 km, ignoring all roads and paths that branch off to the right.

Two hundred metres past a cross, leave the GR42 and follow the yellow and white-marked path on your left. In the hamlet of Les Bernes, turn left twice. Follow the path below the RD29 for 600 m, then walk along the road itself for 150 m.

At the cross, take the paved path on the left. As you exit the forest, head down to the left to the statue of Saint John Francis Regis. Then take the stairs that will lead you back to Bourg-Argental.

⚠️ Caution, high-traffic road, please be careful.

Everyone is responsible for their own safety. Therefore, you undertake these hikes at your own risk. Please stay on the marked trails to protect fragile environments.

A few recommendations:

• Check the weather forecast before you leave.


• Some routes cross busy roads: Be careful.


• Keep dogs on a leash.


• Do not light fires.


• Take your litter with you.


• Enjoy the flowers, but do not pick them.


• Tick bites can cause serious illnesses. To prevent them: wear clothes that cover your arms and legs, use repellent, inspect your body after your hike, remove ticks using a tick remover tool without applying any substance to them, and see a doctor if you develop a rash, flu-like symptoms, or if you are in an at-risk category.


• For emergency services, dial 18 or 112.