The Roof of the Cévennes (by mountain-bike)

Description

At the Col de Salidès, there are 360° panoramic views of Mont Aigoual, the Cévennes and the Causses! The Tarnon valley is shaded by the old beech groves of Le Marquairès state forest. At the Col de Salidès, views open up onto the characteristic landscapes of the National Park. In the distance, flocks of sheep still graze on the limestone plateau of the Can de l'Hospitalet sitting on its schist platform. Mountain-bike route #14. From the village, take the D 907 for 4 km towards the Tunnel du Marquairès. Before the tunnel, fork right towards Le Marquairès forester's house and continue on the forestry track to Gaseiral. Take the road uphill to the Col de Salidès and there take the ridge track on your left to L'Hospitalet (GR 7). After about 3 km, take the track on the left that leads back to Rousses.

Difficulty

Official rating: difficult, by Parc national des Cévennes.

Before you go

• No cycling off-track. You are strongly advised to wear a helmet. Do not forget your repair kit and a small set of tools. Please shut all gates and barriers after yourself. Slow down in farms and hamlets.

Getting there

Start: Rousses, Rousses (48).

Sources

• Track: Parc national des Cévennes, Licence Ouverte 1.0, Licence Ouverte 1.0 (Etalab) (destination.cevennes-parcnational.fr/trek/38808-Le-toit-des-Cevennes---VTT-n14). Time estimated by GPX Path with the Mac app rule, breaks not included.
• Official elevation gain: 847 m, Parc national des Cévennes