At 35 kilometres (22 mi), the GR 61 is a fairly short long-distance footpath traversing a wide variety of landscapes. As you hike between the Gard and the Cévennes, the scenery gradually changes. The cultivated fields, vineyards and garrigue scrubland give way to mountains, steep foothills and magnificent gorges.

This Collection allows you to admire the panoramas in slow motion. Some hikers tackle this GR in one long stage, but I suggest splitting it into three stages so you can really make the most of each vista. The views that unfold will remain etched in your memory forever.

As with any linear route, you need to plan in advance. To get to the start point, take the train to Nîmes, then catch line 112 of the liO Occitanie network to Anduze. You’ll find all the timetables (in French) at lio-occitanie.fr/horaires-et-plans.

To return to Anduze, you'll need someone to pick you up at the Col de l'Asclier. Otherwise, you could wild camp and walk back to Saint-Jean-du-Gard the next day, then take the 112 bus in the opposite direction. Alternatively, you could take the steam train from Saint-Jean-du-Gard to Anduze, then the 112 bus to Nîmes.

The last stage is the longest and most difficult. Between Saint-Jean-du-Gard and the Col de l'Asclier, there aren't really any places to camp, so you’ll need to stray a few kilometres from the GR 61 to split this section in two. I propose two nights in campsites, plus one wild camp before the last day. Remember to book your camping in advance.

To complete this GR successfully, you’ll need to be self-sufficient. Up to Saint-Jean-du-Gard, the route passes through a number of lively communes, but once in the Cévennes, it becomes more remote. You'll need a tent/bivvy bag, a sleeping bag (it gets cold at night, even in summer) and enough food and drink for the stage. There’s a fountain a few steps from the Col de l'Asclier, but don't rely on it and carry plenty of water with you.

This route is accessible all year round, but it’s most beautiful in late spring and early autumn. Summer can be quite hot, so it's best to walk early in the morning.

Make the most of this beautiful GR 61 and enjoy some nights under the stars!