For families or groups
Hiking with a pack donkey
Like Stevenson with his donkey Modestine, come and live an extraordinary adventure in the Cévennes
From April to November, thanks to the Mediterranean climate, you can enjoy the beauty of the Cévennes National Park landscapes and swim in the Gardon valleys, walking along the renowned Drailles (Tour des Cévennes or the Stevenson Trail) and along the old mule paths connecting the many Cévennes hamlets. The donkey will be the endearing companion with whom you will team up to make the most of your journey. Loaded with your bags, he will lighten your backpacks; he can carry a young child on his back and also motivate older ones to keep walking. On the trails and at each evening's stop, he will make it easier for you to connect with your hosts and fellow hikers.
Our 22 donkeys
Our 22 male and female donkeys come from our own breeding farm: aged 5 to 20 years, they combine physical fitness and experience to guide you through your discovery of the Cévennes.
What we offer
- Self-guided circuits from 1 to 15 days in the heart of the Cévennes National Park, following long-distance footpaths (Tour des Cévennes, Tour du Mont Lozère and the Stevenson Trail) and local paths. Detailed maps and route notes provided.
- Daily stages of 10 to 25 km for families or experienced hikers (scenic paths, swimming spots).
- Booking of overnight gîtes: countryside houses we have carefully selected for the quality of their setting, welcome and cuisine.
- All our experience and knowledge of this land where we live will help ensure the success of your project.
For a walking journey with a pack donkey
Contrary to his reputation, the donkey is intelligent, endearing and docile, as long as you show a little friendly firmness. You will discover a charming companion with his own habits and personality. Over the days, he will adopt you and you will work as a team to make the most of your journey.
- On the morning of departure, or the evening before, we take as much time as needed to show you how to saddle your donkey and load the pack saddle on which you will hang two backpacks (50–60 l). A small child can ride seated on the donkey. A helmet is strongly recommended; we can lend you one.
- On the evening of the first stage at Pont de Burgen, we will go over the itinerary before you set off the next morning. Each evening, you will find a host at each gîte who will be happy to advise you.
- Our circuits are varied and adapted to each family depending on their motivations and make-up.
Travelling with young children? Discover our circuits specially designed for little adventurers.