Jonte and Tarn Gorges France

Travelled: 98km via Meyrueis, Jonte Gorge drive, Le Rozier, Tarn Gorge drive, Les Vignes, La Malene then to Mende (Lot River) free aire (44.5205, 3.4961).

We had another ‘wow’ day visiting some lovely villages and spectacular drives along the Jonte and Tarn Gorges.

After some rain last night we woke to sunny skies. We had a quick stroll through Lanuejols, serviced Bluey and set of to the next town.

Meyrueis was once an ancient walled city, it still retains some lovely features from its past following a numbers and map. It’s main function is tourism which is reflected in the numerous hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops. It is conveniently located between Causses (large limestone plateaus at 800m plus altitude used for grazing and growing crops) and Cévennes (narrow ridges and profound valleys at 300-900m alt. where sheep and goats graze in amongst the forests). 

We followed the Jonte Gorge for 20km to Le Rozier which offered very scenic vistas of cliffs rising dramatically up above us. 

After a brief stop in Le Rozier we took the Gorges of the Tarn route (done in 2013). This is a longer road that had more spectacular scenery with cliffs closer to the road and small villages to explore.

Take note of the buildings at the base of the cliffs.

We managed to find some parking at Les Visgnes. 

Then we walked through the lovely La Malene. 

At Saint Enimie we took the road north to Mende in the Lot valley.

Once again with a map we were able to explore some of the notable historical aspects of the centre.

The Tour de France frequently bases through here.. and again this year..

 The most impressive was the cathedral which had tapestries hanging up. 

Hopefully a quiet night…