This adventurous walk offers magnificent views over the mountains of Aveyron and Hérault from the O.N.F watchtower. Pass the Cayla Forestry House and walk past Rascas Lake (D.F.C.I. water reserve). Return to Mélagues via the GR71.
| Department | Aveyron |
|---|---|
| Departure municipality | Mélagues |
| Outing type | Hike |
| Difficulty | Athletic |
| Duration | 4:00 |
| Recommended period | from january to december |
| Environment | Mountains |
| Kilometres | 11 km |
| Altitude upon departure | 685m |
| Change in altitude | 650m |
Depart from Mélagues Town Hall, in the village centre.
Depart from Mélagues Town Hall.
Take the D52 south-eastwards for 1 km following the orange markers. About 100 m after the stone bridge, take the path down on the right to Thalis Stream. Cross it over the small wooden bridge. Walk along the small dry stream and, at the end, take the path on the right and climb up to Cayla Forestry House. The tap outside supplies drinking water for your refreshment.
After the house, turn left and continue to the fork in the road and take the path on the right. After 300 m, turn left; climb up and take the first path on the right. At the crossroads, turn right. Follow this path and do not stray from it until you reach the Watchtower (hut). From here, there are magnificent views over the mountains of Aveyron and Hérault.
Continue to follow the orange marking down to Rascas Lake.
There, follow the left bank of the lake to Rascas Stream. At the fork in the road, turn right and, after 1 km, turn left on to the GR71.
Turn right and follow the yellow markers. Keep on the GR until the end of the tarmac road and then turn right to the D52 to return to Mélagues Town Hall.
