Via Podiensis: the answer to your questions
As you prepare for your Camino,
you may find yourself wondering about
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what to pack,
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where to rest,
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where to dine,
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weather considerations,
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financial matters,
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how to communicate
and more!
We're here to support you every step of the way.
We've compiled all the most frequently asked questions within our dedicated Facebook group.
A quick overview
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740 kms pilgrimage trail from le Puy-en-Velay to St Jean-Pied-de-Port (SJPP).
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The oldest and most popular St Jame’s way in France.
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Charming villages, medieval towns, and scenic natural landscapes: forests, hills, rivers, gorges, and the picturesque Aubrac plateau.
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Two main variants: Célé Valley and Rocamadour.
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Marked as GR 65, it is well-maintained for easy navigation.
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Takes about 32-35 days to complete, suitable for all abilities.
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Walking season: mid-April to mid-Oct.
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Accommodations include diverse “gîtes”, many offering communal dining and lodging.
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Majority of walkers are French; basic French understanding can enhance the experience.
1. A path with many names. Why so many?
The Le Puy route, bears various names that echo its historical significance and geographical prominence.
Via Podiensis
In Latin Via means way or route. The old latin name of Le Puy was “Podium Aniciense” which, over time, became “Podiensis”. So the Via Podiensis is, literally, the Way of Le Puy.
GR 65
comes from the French Grande Randonnée (GR) network, which consists of many hiking trails across France.
Le Puy isn't just a point of departure!
It's a breathtaking sight on its own, renowned for its picturesque location amidst volcanic summits
and its magnificent cathedral, designated as a UNESCO
World Heritage site.
2. When is a good time to walk this route?
Generally, the walking season commences in April and ends mid-October.
The most popular months for walking the VP :
May,
June,
and September.
We do not recommend walking in winter (November to the end of March), not unless you have the experience of members of certain Alpine regiments! It may present challenges due to inclement weather conditions, such as snow on the Aubrac plateau, and a scarcity of open gîtes.
3. How long does it take to walk ?
The duration of the walk along the trail varies depending on your pace.
Those moving at a slower pace (2-3 km/h or 1-2 mph), typically cover approximately 12-15 km over six hours. At this rate, it would take around 50 days to reach SJPdP.
A medium-paced walker, averaging 3-4 km/h (2-2.5 mph), typically covers about 15 to 24 km per day. Consequently, it would take around 35 days to complete the journey to SJPdP at this pace.
For those opting for a faster pace, around 4-5 km/h or 2.5-3 mph, they can cover 24-30 km per day.
This quicker tempo allows them to reach SJPdP in approximately 25-30 days.
Most people walk about 6 hours per day and complete the Via Podiensis
in around 32 to 35 days which is an
average of 21 to 25 kms a day.