French Greenway ‘Passa Pais’ | South France
Greenway Trails ‘Passa Pais’ | Green Ways of South France
Old Railway Line Put to Good Use
Greenway trails of France are over 76-kilometres of pathway that follow the old railway line between Bedarieux and Mazamet. The Greenway ‘Passa Pais’ as named in French go through the regions of Herault (Languedoc Roussillon) and (Midi-Pyrenees) in the Tarn and from a Mediterranean climate to an Atlantic one. Visiting the greenway villages along the trail is an excellent opportunity to discover some of the prettiest villages in France.
Greenway Near Me
The railway ceased transporting passengers in 1972 and the transportation of goods stopped in 1986. The Greenway is reserved for non-motorised vehicles, walkers, cyclists and horse riders only. Locals and visitors regularly utilise the cycle greenway rather than bicycle on the road.
Greenway Health
This type of ‘greenway health’ is catching on and having a positive outcome on many people looking to get fit from exercise. Explore France’s diverse range of bikeways and shared non-motorised pathways using the Passa Pais trail map and app. Available from the National Park website.
Linking Villages Together
It is a relaxing, fun and safe way to discover other villages nearby whilst taking in the glorious views of the mountains, vineyards, forests, meadows, rivers, tunnels and Eiffel-type bridges.
The entire path is totally safe from motorised traffic, road noise and ideal for people with disabilities and perfect for young children to discover and improve their cycling and equestrian skills.
Olargues Most Beautiful Village In France
The path passes through notable villages such as Olargues, which is labelled the ‘Most beautiful village of France’. We were inspired to walk to Olargues knowing the village was holding its annual chestnut festival. The village was alive with music, market and food stalls but the big drawcard outside the Maire (town hall) was fresh roasted chestnuts and Languedoc wine.
Sectacular National Parks and gorges are the perfect spots for picnicking, kayaking and swimming.
The path offers an extensive mosaic of landscapes including lush forests of Ash and Oak trees, expansive vineyards and chestnut groves. The terrain is made up of limestone, marble, granite, clay, shale.
Ample Parking
Along the way, you will see many remnants of towers, castles, tunnels and fortified villages. There is an abundance of flora and fauna to see so keep an eye out.
Carparks are available near the Greenway and dedicated car spaces are marked out by arrows. Although, many of the sections are shaded it is recommended that users wear a hat and carry water. Tunnels are generally well lit however it is a good idea to carry a torch.
There are always toilets in cafes and the odd public WC located in the Green Way villages. Be aware some WC are the old fashion French squat, drop toilets.
Cycling and Walks Guide
For a comprehensive guide visit the Parc Natural Regional du Haut-Languedoc site and download the Android app here
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