Beyond the stroll, the hike, or the landscapes, the Buèges reveals to those who take the time to discover, a subtle ecosystem and inhabitants deeply connected to their environment and history.
How did the idea of organizing hikes in the Buèges valley come about?
A stroke of luck! When I settled in the valley, I fell under its charm and decided to revive my diploma as a mountain guide; it was obvious to discover all the potential of the surroundings.
What is special about your hikes?
The idea is to combine walking and meeting people. I organize tailor-made hikes, depending on the walking level, but mainly on the clients' desires. For example, I offer tasting hikes; we explore the landscapes and the valley in a small group. We talk about its history, observe its fauna and flora, and then meet the winemakers of Saint-Jean-de-Buèges, the Coulet domain - Tour de Baulx - in their vineyard. We discuss the work of the vine, the specifics of the terroir, and conclude with a tasting at the cellar.
There are plenty of options to enhance the walks. In spring, we find little pieces of paradise by the water, with translucent water for lovely moments of tranquility. We discover capitelles*, dolmens, and learn to recognize drailles**… So many traces that have withstood the test of time, allowing us to relive the story of a valley that was very active from the Middle Ages.
We trace the history of silk production and the cultivation of silkworms, as well as charcoal production, pastoralism… You can also meet Camille and Nicolas, a couple of goat herders who are always happy to let you taste their goat cheese.
*Capitelle
Small dry stone hut, that is, without mortar, formerly used as a temporary or seasonal shelter.
**Draille
Transhumance path, generally marked by stone walls, which widens from time to time to create larger spaces for regrouping the herd.
Some hiking tips?
Choose your timing according to the season. In the morning or at the end of the day in summer to avoid the heat of the sun, bring water and suitable shoes. Finally, be attentive and curious, respect the trails, never make a fire, and leave nature as you found it.
What does another idea of travel represent for you?
That travel and change of scenery are sometimes very close… We imagine we have to go far away, while we have little treasures right next to our home.
