Velorail in the Cévennes: a contemplative ride through the valleys

In Thoiras, in the Cévennes, the velorail glides between hills, rivers and undergrowth, letting the landscape unfold to the rhythm of the wheels. Each journey becomes a little moment of freedom, each bend an invitation to observe the natural world around you. Birdsong accompanies the freshness of the forests and the murmur of the water that follows your path. Accessible to all, this bike ride transforms a simple journey into a beautiful and pleasant experience where time slows down. Follow Slow Village and discover the Cévennes valleys by velorail!

Which velorail experience is right for you?

Freedom

On the velorail, each pedal stroke propels the vehicle along tracks that follow the natural relief of the Cévennes valleys.Between Thoiras and Générargues, you cross hills and skirt rivers with the impression of moving forward effortlessly. This gives you a rare feeling of freedom, far from the busy main roads.

Everything here invites you to slow down. The lapping of rivers, the rustling of leaves in the oak and beech trees, and birdsong create a calm, immersive atmosphere. What's more, the wide benches, sunshades and specially adapted brakes mean you can pedal in comfort, savoring every moment.

Conviviality

The velorail in the Cévennes is definitely an experience to be shared. The benches can accommodate two or three people, making it easy to catch up and sharing a few laughs. Families, friends or even couples can pedal side by side, observing viaducts and tunnels together, and stopping to admire the beautiful surrounding scenery, making discovering the Cévennes as social as it is immersive.

Bicycle-rail routes: rivers and undergrowth in the Cévennes

Le Mescladou - 6.2 km, 1h15

Ideal for a first outing or for families, this trail crosses gentle valleys and runs alongside small streams. Bridges and groves line the route, revealing perfect resting places for listening to the murmur of water, watching for insects or spotting a deer. A gentle, accessible walk that lets you discover the Cévennes countryside in complete tranquillity.

Cévennes'Fresh - 10.2 km, 2h30

This trail is distinguished by its contemplative and rejuvenating dimension. The pace is slow, punctuated by breaks to admire the reflections on the water, listen to the gentle sound of the rivers and breathe in the fresh air of the undergrowth.Picnicking in quiet spaces, changing light, a soft, shady atmosphere: every moment invites you to refocus, slow down and enjoy the Cévennes in a different way. The name Fresh evokes this feeling of renewal and invigorating air, far from the hustle and bustle of the usual tourist trails.

Sensory immersion and slow tourism

Skin-deep sensations

The velorail makes you feel every detail of the Cévennes landscape. The relief of the valleys can be felt under the wheels, the scent of pine resin, grass and humus mingles with that of river water, while the song of the birds varies according to the forest and the time of day.

Light as a guide

Tunnels and undergrowth transform the light, accentuating the contrasts of hills and rivers. The nuances of the foliage, the silvery reflections of the water and the variations in the sky enrich the stroll and transform each route into a unique moment of observation.

Observe and slow down

Every stop is an opportunity to take a mindful pause. Listen to the wind in the trees, observe an insect on a branch, photograph a reflection on the water: a vélorail in the Cévennes allows you to reconnect with nature and fully appreciate the details that often escape fast routes.

Slow tourism and respect for nature

The route uses light infrastructure adapted to limit its impact on the environment. Slowing down, walking a few meters off the track to approach a waterhole or admire a remarkable tree, provides an immersive experience that respects the biodiversity of the Cévennes.

Practical tips to make the most of your rail bike outing in the Cévennes

Before you get on your velorail, a few simple details will help you enjoy your ride stress-free. From route selection and booking to timetables and fares, we've thought of everything to make your experience a pleasant one.

Opening hours and prices

• Departure times: staggered throughout the day, generally between 9am and 6pm depending on the season.
• Duration: 1h15 for Le Mescladou, 1h45-2h for Les Viaducs, 2h30 for Cévennes'Fresh.
• Guide prices: adults €20-25, children €12-15 (depending on itinerary and season).
• Reservations: possible online to secure your place or directly on site, subject to availability.

Arrival and installation

• Arrive 15 to 20 minutes before the start.
• Parking spaces are available at Thoiras station .
• The reception desk provides safety instructions and information on the chosen route.

Clothing and protection

• Comfortable clothes and closed shoes.
• Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen, even if the tarpaulins protect you from the sun.
• Light windbreaker for breezy hills.
• Small bottle of water to stay hydrated.

Accessibility and limits

• Accessible to children who can pedal and adults of all ages.
• Pets not allowed to guarantee comfort and safety for all.
• People with reduced mobility: check with the organizer according to the type of velorail selected and the assistance available.

Once you've ridden your favorite velorail route in the Cévennes and tasted the softness of the valleys, the journey doesn't end there. The feeling of calm and freedom can continue. You may decide to let your footsteps guide you to other hidden treasures of the Cévennes. Small villages tucked away in the hills and your open-air hotel in Anduze, set in the heart of nature, invite you to sit back, watch the sky, listen to the rivers and enjoy the slow pace of this beautiful region.