Puech des Mourgues Loop

The Puech des Mourgues loop starts from the cemetery parking lot in Saint-Bauzille-de-Montmel. This location is easily accessible, providing a convenient starting point for your hike.

While the trail is generally accessible, there's no specific information provided regarding dog-friendliness or leash rules. It's always best to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or other hikers, and to clean up after them.

The trail is particularly recommended from autumn to spring. Due to its exposed nature, you can enjoy the sun throughout the route during these seasons. It might be too exposed and hot during the summer months, so plan accordingly.

No, there is no mention of any permits or entrance fees required to hike the Puech des Mourgues loop. The trail is freely accessible to the public.

The terrain is diverse, featuring both shaded narrow paths and wider forest roads. You'll traverse garrigue landscapes with rocky and stony paths, pines, oaks, junipers, and wild flowers. There are also sections along the cliffs of Puech des Mourgues. Be aware that descents can be stony and slightly steep.

The trail is generally considered easy to moderate, making it accessible to a wide range of hikers. While most of the path is easily accessible, there can be a slightly steep and stony descent from the Puech, where hiking poles might be useful. It requires a good physical condition but is suitable for most fitness levels.

The full loop, as described, is approximately 5.8 km and takes about 1 hour and 41 minutes. Shorter versions can be completed in about 1.5 to 2 hours, covering around 3.5 to 6 kilometers. A longer version of about 7.5 to 8 km might take around 2 hours and 45 minutes.

The loop offers beautiful panoramic views. From the plateau, you can admire the wooded plain of Saint-Bauzille-de-Montmel, extending to the Mediterranean Sea, as well as the prominent Pic Saint-Loup and Hortus mountains. There are also views of the Cévennes and the Puech de la Pène. Look for the Orientation table for identifying landmarks.

Yes, the Puech des Mourgues has a rich history. You can find the ruins of a 12th-century church and a 13th-century Augustinian convent at the top, which gives the 'Mount of the Nuns' its name. There's also an ancient natural rock shelter called 'la jassète'. Don't miss the Ruins of the Mourgues Convent.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the DFCI MOE4 trail.

The descent from the Puech can be slightly steep and stony. It's advisable to wear appropriate hiking footwear with good grip, and some hikers may find hiking poles useful for added stability on this section.