Roc d'Anglars - Le Lourdou Trail

The trail is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds. While accessible in winter, some sections can be slippery due to wet conditions. Summer is also an option, but be prepared for warmer weather.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially when passing through the village of Belcastel and near historical sites like the Fort du Roc d'Anglars, and out of respect for other hikers and local wildlife.

Parking is available in the village of Belcastel. The trail is a loop, so you can start and finish conveniently from the village, where you'll also find amenities.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Belcastel and the Fort of Roc d'Anglars loop. It is freely accessible to the public.

The trail features diverse terrain, including wind-swept plateaus, dense wooded areas, and paths along the banks of the Aveyron River. You'll encounter rocky escarpments and some significant elevation changes. While generally accessible, some sections can be stony or unpaved and may be slippery in wet weather.

This loop offers several notable sights. You'll get stunning views of Belcastel and its medieval castle, pass by the ancient Fort du Roc d'Anglars, and discover the Lourdou cave with its statue of the Virgin Mary. The path leading to the fort also features wooden crosses representing the Stations of the Cross.

On average, hikers complete this moderate loop in about 2 hours and 40 minutes. This duration can vary depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the viewpoints and historical sites.

Classified as 'moderate,' the trail requires good fitness but is generally suitable for most skill levels. While not overly strenuous, some sections have elevation changes and uneven terrain. It can be a rewarding experience for active families, but younger children might find some parts challenging.

While there are no facilities directly on the trail itself, the village of Belcastel, where the loop starts and ends, offers amenities such as toilets and picnic tables. You'll also find cafes and restaurants there.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Sentier de la Vallée de l'Aveyron - GR 62B and the Chemin de l’Oustalou, among others.

Given the varied terrain and duration, we recommend bringing sturdy hiking shoes, water, snacks, and appropriate clothing for the weather. A camera is also a good idea to capture the stunning views of Belcastel and its medieval castle and the surrounding valley.