the full french way of st james A UTracks holiday is all about exploring Europe ‑ your way. It’s about U + the walking tracks and cycling trails you want to discover. Since we began in 2006, UTracks has quickly become known as the leaders in active European holidays. Our itineraries are creative ‑ and very affordable. Set your own pace on a flexible self guided trip or enjoy the benefits of an experienced local guide on a guided tour. Together with our sister company Sherpa Expeditions, we offer over 400 active tours across the continent and it’s many exotic islands. There’s an active holiday idea everyone including families, culinary enthusiasts, history buffs, experienced alpine walkers or those that just want to see Europe differently. The physical demands range from introductory to challenging ‑ with all offering unique opportunities to discover the ‘untrodden’ Europe, spanning postcard landscapes, centuries‑old cultures, rural lifestyles and tempting culinary delights. Compare the price and you will see that we offer exceptional value active programs that are virtually all‑inclusive, giving you more time to enjoy the natural and cultural wonders you’ve come to experience. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2‑star or 4‑star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.

explore europe your way

TRIP COST

TRIP NAME: THE FULL FRENCH WAY OF ST JAMES Joining Le Puy en Velay :$6190 TRIP CODE: FC1

Trip Concludes: St Jean Pied de Port All prices are per person

Le Puy-en-Velay

TRIP DURATION: 40 DAYS

Cahors

October supplement

Conques

Lectoure

GRADE: MODERATE ‑ 3

OPTIONS & ACTIVITY: SELF GUIDED WALK SUPPLEMENTS ACCOMMODATION: 39 NIGHTS GUESTHOUSES / HOTELS

pp:$380

France

Saint-JeanPied-de-Port

Spain

DATE DETAILS:  DAILY FROM 1 APR TO 15 SEP

Single Supplement:$1870 Single Traveller Surcharge:$1910 As the trip price is based on twinshare, a single supplement is payable if a single room is required ‑ or a single traveller supplement if you are travelling solo*. Please refer to the price options for costs or ask our office for details. Note regarding single rooms ‑ The single supplement guarantees the privacy of your own room, however, rooms can at times be small and in some places may not enjoy the same facilities as double/twin rooms. *The single traveller surcharge is only available on trips deemed suitable for solo travellers. It is usually more expensive than the single supplement due to the extra cost for luggage transfers and organisation.

highlights  Walking the whole route to St Jean Pied de Port, the cross roads of the “Grand Chemin de Saint Jacques”  Enjoying the camaraderie of fellow hikers and pilgrims  Experiencing the culinary delights of the region and the hospitality of your accommodation hosts  Viewing the contrasting landscapes and architecture between the regions passed

the trip Traverse the centuries of time and the borders of Europe on the medieval pilgrim trail of Compostela. In the 9th century, the tomb of the apostle St James was unearthed in Compostela. The site became the focus of a pilgrim trail beginning in France, and crossing northern Spain to Santiago de Compostela. This journey, along the Via Podensis, the French Way of St James, takes pilgrims from Le Puy en Velay to the Pyrenees at St Jean Pied de Port. The route passes a multitude of churches and monasteries, resembling a travelling museum of Romanesque art.­

IMPORTANT NOTES DN1 - The October supplement applies if any walking days occur in October.

© 2011 World Expeditions Travel Group - Kate Baker 12/22/2016 12:25:37 PM

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the full french way of st james itinerary at a glance Day 1

Arrive Le Puy-en-Velay

Day 2

Walk to St-Privat-d’Allier (5-6hrs, 23km)

Day 3

Descend the gorges of Allier to Saugues (4-5hrs, 17.5km)

Day 4

Walk across the Margeride plateau to St Alban (7 or 8hrs, 26 or 29km)

Day 5

Descend into the Truyère valley and arrive at Aumont-Aubrac (6 or 5hrs, 20km or 17km)

Day 6

Walk to Recoules-d’Aubrac or Nasbinals (7.5hrs, 26.5km)

Day 7

To St-Chely-d’Aubrac (5 or 4hrs, 20 or 17km)

Day 8

To St-Come d’Olt or Espalion (4 or 5hrs, 16 or 22km)

Day 9

To Estaing (5 or 3hrs, 17 or 11km)

Day 10

To Golinhac (4hrs, 16km)

Day 11

To Conques (5-6hrs, 24km)

Day 12

Rest day in Conques

Day 13

To Livinhac or Decazeville (6 or 5hrs, 24 or 20km)

Day 14

To Figeac (7 or 8hrs, 24 or 28km)

Day 15

Walk to Gréalou (5hrs, 19km)

Day 16

Continue to the pretty medieval town of Cajarc (4hrs, 11km)

Day 17

To Limogne (5hrs, 18km)

Day 18

Walk to the truffle town of Lalbenque (7hrs, 25km)

Day 19

Walk to Cahors (5hrs, 18km)

Day 20

Walk to Lascabanes (6.5hrs, 25km)

Day 21

Continue pilgrimage to Lauzerte (5.5hrs, 23km)

Day 22

Walk to Moissac (7hrs, 24.5km)

Day 23

To Auvillar with its interesting medieval circular market (6hrs, 21km)

Day 24

To Miradoux (5hrs, 17.5km)

Day 25

Walk to Lectoure (4hrs, 15km)

Day 26

Walk to La Romieu (5hrs, 19km)

Day 27

Continue to the Armagnac town of Condom (4hrs, 16km)

Day 28

Walk to Montréal with its arcade lined central square (5hrs, 17km)

Day 29

To the Roman town of Eauze (5hrs, 16km)

Day 30

Pass walnut groves en route to Nogaro or Arblade-le-Haut (6hrs, 20km)

Day 31

Walk to Aire sur l’Adour or Barcelonne d’Gers (7.5 or 8hrs, 22/25/27.5km)

Day 32

Transfer to Miramont then walk to Arzacq (3.5hrs, 15km)

Day 33

Continue to Pomps via small churches and a pilgrims hospital (6hrs, 21km)

Day 34

To Maslacq (6.5hrs, 19km)

Day 35

Continue walk to Navarrenx (6hrs, 22km)

Day 36

Through fields and past small villages to Lichos (4hrs, 15km)

Day 37

Walk to St Palais (6hrs, 23km) © 2011 World Expeditions Travel Group - Kate Baker 12/22/2016 12:25:37 PM

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the full french way of st james Day 38

To Larceveau or Ostabat (3 or 4.5hrs, 11 or 15km)

Day 39

To St Jean Pied de Port (6 or 5hrs, 19 or 23km)

Day 40

Trip concludes

detailed itinerary DAY 1 Arrive Le Puy-en-Velay Arrive in Le Puy-en-Velay. This is an ancient town surrounded by a volcanic landscape which is dominated by rocky peaks rising from the valley floor. We recommend that you allow at least half a day to explore. Take a stroll through town and warm up your walking legs climbing the 267 steps to the Chapel of St Michael d’Aiguilhe, built by Godescalc after his pilgrimage to Santiago in AD951, for views over the town and surrounding area.You can also visit some of the many museums and the Romanesque Cathedral of Notre-Dame. meals: NIL

DAY 2 Walk to St-Privat-d’Allier (5-6hrs, 23km) The Le Puy-en-Velay cathedral is the starting point for your walk and you will ascend rapidly from the Puy Basin. Crossing the Velay Mountains and passing fields of lentils, you enter the heart of the volcanic chain of the Deves before arriving in the small village of St Privat d’Allier. meals: B,D

DAY 3 Descend the gorges of Allier to Saugues (4-5hrs, 17.5km) Most of the day is spent crossing the valley. You will pass through the village of Rochegude, famous for its St Jacques Chapel, where a descent to the river at Monistrol will follow. Whilst the trail is easy to follow, the following ascent is quite sustained (500m over 11km) just beyond Rognac from where the route leads you to the historic village of Saugues, famous for its mushrooms, wooden shoes and a meeting point for all pilgrims coming from the Auvergne. meals: B,D

DAY 4 Walk across the Margeride plateau to St Alban (7 or 8hrs, 26 or 29km) Today is very picturesque as you cross the Margeride plateau. With vast grassy plains and moors of broom and heather, this part of the trail is relatively easy going. Amongst the most interesting sights are St Roch Chapel or L’Hospitalet du Dauvage Chapel, founded in 1198 as a hospital for pilgrims and travellers. Overnight in St Alban/Les Faux (26km) or St Alban/Le Rouget (29km). meals: B,D

DAY 5 Descend into the Truyère valley and arrive at Aumont-Aubrac (6 or 5hrs, 20km or 17km) From St Alban the trail descends into the Truyere valley. You then traverse the vast plain of the Margeride to reach Aumont-Aubrac. On the way, admire the Roman church of the Estrets, re-worked several times and surmounted by a bell tower wall with three openings supporting a small steeple. meals: B,D

DAY 6 Walk to Recoules-d’Aubrac or Nasbinals (7.5hrs, 26.5km) From Aumont-Aubrac in “Terre de Peyre” (land of Peyre which means land of stone), the Way of St James crosses some beautiful pine forests before joining the Aubrac plateau, a vast expanse of pastures punctuated by “burons” (in the Auvergne region this is a shelter where the cowherd lives and makes cheese during the summer). This is the country of the famous Laguiole knife, an indispensable tool to cut the cheese of the same name. Arrive at your hotel/guest house in Nasbinals or Recoules d’Aubrac. meals: B,D

© 2011 World Expeditions Travel Group - Kate Baker 12/22/2016 12:25:37 PM

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the full french way of st james DAY 7 To St-Chely-d’Aubrac (5 or 4hrs, 20 or 17km) This stage takes you through the heart of the Aubrac plateau, where the ancestral rite of transhumance is still practiced (the annual transhumance fair is on the Sunday nearest 25th of May). At lunch time, try the regional specialties at a buron or country inn, where local dishes are available such as the “aligot” (mashed potato with cheese and garlic), assorted cooked meats from the mountain or a good crepe omelette. In Aubrac you can see remnants of an ancient “Domerie” (name given to the hospital in Aubrac in medieval times). Overnight hotel in Chely d’Aubrac. meals: B,D

DAY 8 To St-Come d’Olt or Espalion (4 or 5hrs, 16 or 22km) We leave the country of the “Boraldes” (name given to the brooks descending from the Aubrac) to reach the Lot valley. Here you are near St-Côme d’Olt, listed among the “most beautiful villages of France”. There are remnants of numerous bridges constructed over the Lot river which made the pilgrims’ crossings easier. Overnight hotel in St-Come d’Olt or Espalion, dependent on availability. meals: B,D

DAY 9 To Estaing (5 or 3hrs, 17 or 11km) The walk continues on the Way of St James following the stream of the Lot river to the lovely village of Estaing, with its Gothic bridge and imposing chateau. The annual St Fleuret fair has been held here since the 14th century (on the first Sunday of July). On this occasion, a great procession travels through the village in period costume. Every other weekend in September, Estaing hosts a market with local produce and artisans’ works, and groups of Troubadours entertain with juggling and traditional music. Overnight hotel in Estaing. meals: B,D

DAY 10 To Golinhac (4hrs, 16km) We leave the Lot valley at the village of Golinhac, remarkable for its church. The church preserves the Roman foundations of a Benedictine priory which was dependent on Conques abbey. Of interest at the entrance to the village is a stone cross dating from the fifteenth century, with a decorative carving of a pilgrim wearing a hat and holding a bumblebee. Overnight hotel in Golinhac. meals: B,D

DAY 11 To Conques (5-6hrs, 24km) The walk to Conques is very often one of the favourite stages for pilgrims as the view over the village is breathtaking if you come from the east. While descending into the deep valley of the Ouche, you will arrive near the Dourdou river (which flows into the Lot river, to the north) at Conques. Relax this evening in one of the many bars to experience the atmosphere of this lovely town. meals: B,D

DAY 12 Rest day in Conques Today is free to discover the village and its pointed roofs from which the three towers of the Romanesque Abbey-Church Sainte Foy dominate. You can also admire the village’s portal, a real treasure from the Roman times. meals: B

DAY 13 To Livinhac or Decazeville (6 or 5hrs, 24 or 20km) The trail this morning heads to the surrounding hills, where the view over Conques is striking. Along the way, visit a small chapel dedicated to Saint Roch, pilgrim saint of Montpellier. Here he is depicted as a pilgrim with a scallop shell. This evening your accommodation will be at either Livinhac or Decazeville, depending on availability. meals: B,D

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the full french way of st james DAY 14 To Figeac (7 or 8hrs, 24 or 28km) Leaving from either Livinhac or Decazeville, you reach the hilltop village of Montredon, dominated by its church Saint Michel and Romanesque Chapel of St Mary. The route then crosses the countryside to arrive in Figeac. The birthplace of Champollion (decipherer of the Egyptian hieroglyphs), you can visit the excellent museum dedicated to his work. There is also a Benedictine abbey from the ninth century. meals: B

DAY 15 Walk to Gréalou (5hrs, 19km) The trail crosses the river Célé and ascends the limestone plateau where you can admire the magnificent “Cazels” or “Bories” - little drystone shepherd huts. Arrive in Gréalou, with its twelfth century Romanesque church Our Lady of the Assumption. meals: B,D

DAY 16 Continue to the pretty medieval town of Cajarc (4hrs, 11km) The trail today descends along the Lot valley to the village of Cajarc, where you can visit the ruins of a castle from the thirteenth century and the chapel of St Margaret, listed as historical monument since 1941. meals: B,D

DAY 17 To Limogne (5hrs, 18km) The trail continues along the arid plateau of Limogne en Quercy. The rainwater seeps inside the rocks to form a network of underground rivers and the region is also rich in caves, some of which contain cave paintings. The Causse de Limogne also contains many dolmens. Limogne-en-Quercy, your destination today, is famous for its truffle fair, usually held on Sunday mornings from December to March and in summer. meals: B,D

DAY 18 Walk to the truffle town of Lalbenque (7hrs, 25km) A great walk today as you see the dolmens (megalithic tombs built of stone) and other historic monuments and sights of interest : old windmills, wells, dry stone walls and a pretty monolithic cross (carved from a single block) along the route. The apparent isolation of the plateau has created a quiet life for the villages, its farms and houses. meals: B,D

DAY 19 Walk to Cahors (5hrs, 18km) The trail takes you along the Cami Ferrat, an ancient trade route between Cahors and Caylus. The town of Cahors is nestled in a U-shaped bend of the Lot River. Arriving at the town you first cross the famous bridge Valentré, an emblem of the city classified as World Heritage by UNESCO and a well-known pilgrim milestone. meals: B

DAY 20 Walk to Lascabanes (6.5hrs, 25km) Leaving Cahors, there is a final view of its famous Valentré Bridge. From the Magne Cross there is another beautiful view of the city of Cahors. The trail then continues through the Quercy Blanc, and leads you to the village of Lascabanes. meals: B,D

DAY 21 Continue pilgrimage to Lauzerte (5.5hrs, 23km) The trail today leads you into the Tarn and Garonne region. In spring you can enjoy the rich flora particularly its many orchids. Later you reach the medieval town of Lauzerte, situated above the valleys and hills of the area known as the Quercy Blanc and founded in the 12th Century by the Count of Toulouse. It is one of only 155 villages in France listed as one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages of France’. Overnight Lauzerte. meals: B,D

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the full french way of st james DAY 22 Walk to Moissac (7hrs, 24.5km) This morning we pass by the village of Durfort, which is one of few in the region not to have a church. The vegetation after this is lush with forests. Near the Tarn valley, orchards (apples, plums, pears, peaches, cherries, kiwis and melons) replace the vineyards. Moissac was formerly a major stop on the road to Santiago. Here you can visit the Abbey of Saint-Pierre with its UNESCO World Heritage cloister. Take a walk along the pont Canal de Cacor, a 356m canal bridge which allows the Garonne lateral canal to cross the Tarn river. meals: B,D

DAY 23 To Auvillar with its interesting medieval circular market (6hrs, 21km) On leaving Moissac, pass by its abbey and continue along the Tarn before returning to the Garonne and its lateral canal. You soon enter the Lomagne or “hunchback Gascogne”, an area of natural beauty. Straddling the Tarn et Garonne and the Gers, this former dependency of the Duchy of Gascony is the land of white garlic, interesting houses and churches. The destination today is the village of Auvillar, which was built on a promontory and is another classified as a “Most beautiful villages in France”. With its circular market built in 1824, its clock tower and old stone houses, there is much to see here. meals: B,D

DAY 24 To Miradoux (5hrs, 17.5km) The walk today takes you through the Gers Lomagne commune to the small town of Miradoux. With only 550 inhabitants and built on a small promontory, the town has character-filled stone houses, evidence of the rich history of the area. meals: B,D

DAY 25 Walk to Lectoure (4hrs, 15km) Walk to the lovely town of Lectoure, built on a rocky outcrop and high above the hills of Lomagne. With its imposing Cathedral and Chateau, once home to the Counts of Armagnac, the town has a colourful history such as the seige of Louis XI in 1473. If you are here on a Friday, there is a fabulous market in the morning that showcases the regions gastronomical delights. meals: B,D

DAY 26 Walk to La Romieu (5hrs, 19km) Leaving Lectoure and the Ger River behind, the trail takes you to Marsolan where on the terrace of the remains of the old hospital Saint Jacques at the entrance to the village, you can take in the impressive view of the Auchie Gascon Valley. Continuing through fields and woods, the trail descends gently to La Romieu. Here you can visit the 14th century church whose towers resemble a castle and whose cloisters are a ‘must-see’. meals: B,D

DAY 27 Continue to the Armagnac town of Condom (4hrs, 16km) Leaving La Romieu the expansive views of the open countryside of the Gers are inspiring. It’s an ideal walking environment, best before the midday sun sets in. The area represents the transition between the ‘haute’ Armagnac around Lectoure (also called White Armagnac due to the limestone found throughout the area) and the ‘bas’ Armagnac around Eauze, where thick black oak woods are found and 57% of the wine crops of Armagnac are located. Condom is one of the principal Armagnac towns and is located at a spur of the rivers Gele and Baise. The key attraction is the Gothic styled Cathedral of St Peter’s, the last built in the Languedoc style. meals: B,D

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the full french way of st james DAY 28 Walk to Montréal with its arcade lined central square (5hrs, 17km) En route to Montréal-du-Gers we recommend a 15 minute detour to visit the tiny fortified town of Larresingle which was the fortress of the Bishops of Condom in the Middle Ages and another of the’ most beautiful villages’ in France. Further along the route you pass the Pont d’Artigues, a Romanesque bridge crossing the Osse located 1000km from Santiago. It was also the site of a pilgrim hospital and a church but there are no remains of these buildings today. A little further you will come across the Eglise de Routges, the oldest church in the region, before arriving at Montréal-du-Gers. This interesting bastide town has a central square surrounded by arcades, the 13th century Church of SainteMarie and historic houses. meals: B,D

DAY 29 To the Roman town of Eauze (5hrs, 16km) The route this morning takes you along quiet trails lined with the vines of the Armagnac region and past farm houses. Passing by the village of Lamothe, with its 13th century guard tower, the route continues along a flat path to the former Roman town of Eauze (Elusa). The Gothic cathedral is worth a visit, while other attractions include the museum with its Roman coin collection, an Andalucian style bullring and numerous historic houses. meals: B,D

DAY 30 Pass walnut groves en route to Nogaro or Arblade-le-Haut (6hrs, 20km) The route continues today on a fairly flat trail through vines, walnut groves and open countryside. In Manciet, about half way along the days walk, there is a bullring used for cattle races which are held on the 2nd Sunday in September to coincide with the village fete. Passing the church of St Jean Baptiste de la Commanderie de Saint Christie de l’Armagnac, there are a some small descents and ascents before arriving into Nogaro. The town has a bullring and a Romanesque church. Or continue to Arblade-le-Haut, dependent on availability. meals: B,D

DAY 31 Walk to Aire sur l’Adour or Barcelonne d’Gers (7.5 or 8hrs, 22/25/27.5km) Continue on a trail through forest of Maritime pine, oak and chestnut, with much of the day along roads (with low traffic). Along the route you pass by some interesting bridges and hamlets before reaching Aire sur l’Adour. Aire sur l’Adour is separated into two parts: the lower section which is by the river and dominated by the cathedral of St Jean Baptiste, and the high town or Mas d’Aire which is dominated by the Eglise de Sainte Quitterie, where a Benedictine monastery once stood. meals: B,D

DAY 32 Transfer to Miramont then walk to Arzacq (3.5hrs, 15km) A short transfer this morning to the small village of Miramont, where you begin walking. Soon you reach the Eglise de Sensacq, a church formerly dedicated to St James. The route continues along the GR65 to reach Arzaq-Arraziguet, passing by Pimbos en route, which is one of the oldest villages in the Landes. When Arzaq was founded by “les Anglais” in the 13-14th centuries it was not in Béarn (an independent country) but in France. The town was the border between the two then independent countries. Nowadays this is the border area of Les Landes and Pyrenees-Atlantiques departments. Overnight and dinner in Arzaq-Arraziquet. Note: Whilst we include a transfer from Aire-sur-l’Adour or Barcelonne-du-Gers to Miramont-Sensacq, a distance of 18 km, it is possible to either walk the whole route (32/34km) or break this day into two days, staying in the town of Miramont. If you wish to do this please advise us at the time of booking - supplement applies for additional night. meals: B,D

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the full french way of st james DAY 33 Continue to Pomps via small churches and a pilgrims hospital (6hrs, 21km) The trail continues through the beautiful Béarn region, with many historic relics to visit including the abbey church of the XII Century St Pierre Larreule, the Romanesque church of St Quitterie and the church of St Jacques and chateau in Pomps. Overnight Pomps. meals: B,D

DAY 34 To Maslacq (6.5hrs, 19km) The trail continues past a pilgrims hospital and a Romanesque chapel to reach Arthezde-Béarn where a transition is noticeable towards Basque style architecture. The route passes through woods and the Church of Argagnon, the Chapelle of Caubin and the Chapelle of Cagnez before reaching the small village of Maslacq situated on the Gave de Pau. meals: B,D

DAY 35 Continue walk to Navarrenx (6hrs, 22km) Starting the day through fields and woods following the Gave de Pau, the route passes a sanctuary and later a former monastery (La Sauvelade). The undulating trail takes you through quiet rural scenes to reach the town of Navarrenx, the first in France to be fortified with Italian style ramparts. meals: B,D

DAY 36 Through fields and past small villages to Lichos (4hrs, 15km) Another great day’s walk through the last of the Béarnais countyside on this route, crossing small streams and ascending fields and wooded trails. En route you pass a pâté producer (Jean Haget) and the Mongaston Castle, before you reach the small village of Lichos, birthplace of Saint-Grat, Bishop of Oloron. You have now crossed over into the Basque region of France. meals: B,D

DAY 37 Walk to St Palais (6hrs, 23km) The walk today takes you via the Eglise d’Olhaiby along rural trails to St Palais, a cultural town which plays host to colourful festivals and markets. Here the street signs are in the Basque language which is typical of the region. This is also the entry point into the Lower Navarre, formerly the Kingdom of Navarre. There are a number of sights to visit including a museum containing historic pilgrim relics and a statue of St James the pilgrim. meals: B,D

DAY 38 To Larceveau or Ostabat (3 or 4.5hrs, 11 or 15km) Continue on a trail past pilgrims hospitals, small chapels and historic villages to OstabatAsme where you may spend the night, or alternatively continue to Larceveau (this will depend on availability at time of booking). Ostabat was a large centre for pilgrims in the Middle Ages. meals: B,D

DAY 39 To St Jean Pied de Port (6 or 5hrs, 19 or 23km) The trail takes you along the D933 through the valley and usually along old lanes either side of the main road. En route you pass the sights of pilgrims hospitals and the Croix de Galzetaburia which is a cross placed on the crossing of Roman roads to mark the entry of secondary routes onto the Via Pondensis. Passing the villages of Mongelos and Bussanarits you reach Donazaharre with its church of St Pierre. Not long after, the pretty pilgrimage town of St Jean Pied de Port is entered via the Porte Saint-Jacques. With its ornate Basque style houses and wealth of sights to visit (Citadelle, Prison des Eveques, museums and churches, the various Portes (doors) and bridges over the river Nive), take time to walk around this evening. meals: B

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the full french way of st james DAY 40 Trip concludes Trip concludes after breakfast. meals: B

additional deposits

Due to the specific arrangements we have with our tour partner, we require the prepayment of an additional deposit which is non‑refundable. This payment is required at the time of booking together with our normal per person deposit. This prepayment should not be viewed as an additional cost. We recommend you take out travel insurance at the time of booking.

inclusions

39 breakfasts, 34 dinners: Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, cheese, ham, tea, coffee & juices. Dinner will consist of 3 courses, usually starting with a salad, followed by a chicken, red meat, fish or pasta dish & finishing with a dessert of fruit or cakes. 39 nights guesthouses or hotel on a twin share basis, generally with ensuite facilities Information pack including route notes, maps and walking guide (per room booked) Luggage transfer (max 1 bag of max 15kgs per person) Transfer to Miramont on day 32 Visitor tax Emergency hotline

items not included Travel to and from Le Puy‑en‑Velay / St Jean Pied de Port Drinks and lunches, dinner on days 1, 12, 14, 19, 39 & 40 Items of a personal nature Travel insurance Tour guide ‑ this is a self guided trip Entrance fees Transfers unless specified Excess Baggage ‑ arrangements can be made to carry baggage in excess of the 1 bag of 15kgs limit. Excess baggage which has not been pre organised may be refused. A supplement applies for excess baggage. Please ask our office for details.

getting there BY CAR Driving routes can be accessed via the following websites: www.viamichelin. com BY TRAIN For timetables from Paris to Le Puy‑en‑Velay see www.voyages‑sncf.com. Australian travellers can book rail in Europe via the link on the utracks.com homepage. From St Jean Pied de Port you can take a bus to Cambo les Bains and then a train to Bayonne and on to various points in France or Spain. Also from Bayonne you can take a 30 minute bus to the airport in Biarritz and fly to points throughout Europe. BY AIR Fly to Clermont Ferrand, France and then catch the train to Le Puy‑en. On arrival catch a taxi to your hotel. We are happy to assist with rail and air bookings. For departure from St Jean Pied de Port, Biarritz is the closest airport.

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the full french way of st james trip grading -

Daily walks are between 11 and 28km on well marked trails over diverse terrain – from relatively flat to mountainous. This is a well worn path where route finding will be reasonably straight forward (refer below for further details on self guided adventures). The main areas to concentrate on route finding are arriving and leaving towns. The accent is on keeping a steady pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. In the summer months an early start is recommended to avoid sun exposure during the hottest period of the day as sections of the trail are unshaded. You will need a good level of fitness and walking endurance to participate fully in this adventure.

dietary requirements

Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering these medications.

a note on our self guided adventures

Self guided walking or cycling requires individuals to use problem solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye. On self guided cycling tours it is expected that you will know how to repair punctures and make minor adjustments to gears, handlebars and seats. For anything more serious, our local partner will be able to assist. It is recommended that you are comfortable map reading, referring to route notes and that you have a good sense of direction (or are willing to work on improving this!) Sometimes route finding, losing your way, finding it again and asking the locals for help is all part of the adventure. If you’ve never been on a self guided trip, after the first couple of days you will get the hang of it as the vast majority of our first time travellers attest. Please be assured that our written material issued to you for route finding is updated regularly and we provide a 7day service hotline in the event of any problems. Using directions and maps can be more difficult for solo travellers as often two heads are better than one when it comes to finding your way. There is a certain level of the unknown that comes with self guided trips, however with a methodical approach potential problems will be averted. The freedom of a self guided trip is something that, once experienced, is sought time and time again.

joining instructions On confirmation of booking you will receive a pre departure kit. Three weeks prior to departure from your home country you will be sent your final documents which include details of the joining hotel, a hotel list, maps and a walking guidebook (one per room booked).

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the full french way of st james accommodation

DURING TOUR During the trip you will be accommodated in 2‑3 star hotels, Chambres d’hôtes (B&Bs) and gîtes (guesthouses), always on a twinshare basis. Some of the gîtes may have shared bathrooms and you will need to bring your own soap. The eclectic mix of accommodations is one of the great attractions of the trip, with the Chambres d’hôtes offering home style cuisine and house wine, and the gastronomy in the hotels ranging from good to excellent. It is possible to upgrade accommodation to mainly 3 star properties for the first sections to Conques ‑ this must be requested at the time of booking.

fast facts COUNTRIES VISITED France VISAS Visas not required for citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and New Zealand for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days for all Schengen countries (see www. schengenvisainfo.com/schengen‑visa‑countries‑list/ for countries part of the Schengen). Please ensure your passport is stamped on arrival in the Schengen area. For all other nationalities and for longer stays in countries covered by the Schengen Agreement (Australian New Zealand, Canadian and US passport holders), please contact the relevant embassy. Stays of longer than 90 days in the Schengen area require a long stay visa for the country you are spending most time in. However long stay visas are unlikely to be issued unless there is a valid reason (eg. studying in country). Unfortunately we cannot assist in obtaining visas for long stays due to individual country visa requirements. CLIMATE The trip runs between April to September during the European Spring, Summer & Autumn. Temperatures range between 6‑19 in Spring and Autumn, and 14 ‑ 26 degrees Celsius in Summer (sometimes higher). The region has a mild climate with generally hot summers and cold, dry winters. MIN GROUP SIZE 1 SPECIALIST GEAR REQUIRED Wet weather gear, sunscreen, good walking boots / shoes, sun hat and walking poles. A comprehensive gear list is included in the pre‑departure information provided on booking.

special notes

REST DAYS AND TRANSFERS Our itinerary has one rest day in Conques. It also includes a transfer to Miramont on day 32 ‑ it is possible to split day 32 into two days or walk the full distance of 32‑34km. If you have the time we recommend further rest days in Aumont‑Aubrac, Cahors, Lectoure and / or Aire sur l’Adour. Alternatively if you do not wish to have a rest day in Conques we can reduce the trip duration to 39 days. Please ensure you advise us of any request to vary the itinerary on booking as any changes after booking will incur additional fees. Please see our terms and conditions for more details. CONQUES ACCOMMODATION

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the full french way of st james This trip includes two nights in Conques. You can elect to have only one night and therefore obtain a discount. If you continue with the two nights, unfortunately the Abbaye where we stay in Conques does not accept 2 consecutive nights. You will therefore need to advise us if you would like to have one night in the Abbaye and one night in the Auberge, or have two nights in the Auberge (and therefore not change accommodation). Please ensure you advise us of this at the time of booking.

how to book

Booking a UTracks holiday is simple. You can book online, via our secure payment facility, at your own convenience. Alternatively, fill out our booking form ‑ which can be found at the back of our brochure, on our website or we can email you a copy ‑ then scan/email, fax or post the form to your nearest UTracks or World Expeditions office, or travel agent, with the relevant deposit by cheque or credit card (note: surcharges may apply for credit card payments if full payment is made). UTracks has access to competitive airfares to Europe. Contact us, or your travel agent, for assistance with your travel arrangements including flights, travel insurance & additional accommodation.

follow us

https://www.facebook.com/UTracks https://www.instagram.com/utrackstravel/ https://twitter.com/UTracks_Travel There’s even more tips and ideas on our blog at http://www.utracks.com/discover

slide shows

UTracks invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel slide shows. These special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced and passionate adventure travellers. Ask our staff for a slide show schedule or register on our website – www.utracks.com. Shows can fill early so it is important to register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two!

e-newsletter

To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e‑newsletter! You can do this on line through our website, www.utracks. com or contact our office.

IMPORTANT NOTE

THESE TRIP NOTES REPRESENT THE MOST CURRENT INFORMATION AVAILABLE FOR THIS ITINERARY, AND SUPERSEDE ANY INFORMATION DETAILED IN THE CURRENT BROCHURE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE ITINERARY AND PRICE.

talk to us

If you require any further assistance regarding this trip or any other adventure, please contact your nearest UTRACKS or World Expeditions office.

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the full french way of st james

AUSTRALIA UTracks / World Expeditions Level 5, 71 York St Sydney NSW 2000 T: (02) 8270 8488 F: (02) 8270 8489 Toll free: 1300 303 368 [email protected] Feel free to visit our World Expeditions offices in:• Melbourne • Perth • Brisbane • Adelaide (Thor Travel) Our staff will be happy to assist with your enquiries. For address and office phone numbers see our website at www.worldexpeditions.com NEW ZEALAND World Expeditions Level 1, 59-67 High St Auckland CBD PO Box 106-275 Auckland City 1143 T: (09) 368 4161 F: (09) 368 4162 Toll Free: 0800 350 354 [email protected]

CANADA - OTTAWA World Expeditions 47 William St Ottawa, Ontario Canada K1N 6Z9 T: 613 241 2700 F: 613 2414189 Toll Free:  1-800-567-2216 [email protected] UNITED KINGDOM World Expeditions 1B Osiers Road Wandsworth London SW18 1NL T: 0845 241 7599 F: 020 8870 7014 T: 1800 946 258 (Ireland) [email protected]

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