A narrow path, chestnut trees overhead, the smell of damp leaves. That’s how you leave Saint-Gervais-sur-Mare and head into the hill country. It’s a tough stage, and most of that comes down to one climb.
Within a few kilometres you climb around 440 metres. It’s steep, so keep your breathing short and take it one step at a time. After the top there’s a long way back down, and you’ll feel it in your knees. Murat-sur-Vèbre is a quiet village, just right for shaking out your legs. Allow plenty of time for breaks, because with almost 7 hours of walking the afternoon will be gone before you know it.