The Le Puy route — the Via Podiensis (GR 65) — is the most popular of the French Caminos. It runs ~750 km from Le Puy-en-Velay through the volcanic landscapes of the Auvergne, the Midi, and the Landes to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, where most pilgrims continue onto the Camino Francés for the final 780 km to Santiago.
At a glance
- Distance: ~750 km (4–5 weeks) to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port; ~1,500 km to Santiago
- Start: Le Puy-en-Velay
- Difficulty: Moderate — hilly start, long flat middle
- Crowds: Moderate (the busiest French route)
- Best months: May–June, September
The route
From Le Puy-en-Velay the GR 65 crosses the volcanic Aubrac plateau, through Saint-Côme-d'Olt, Conques and Moissac, follows the Canal latéral to La Réole, and reaches Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port at the foot of the Pyrenees. From there the Camino Francés takes over the crossing into Spain.
Who is the Le Puy route for?
This is the classic French pilgrim route — for walkers who have time, a little French (or phrasebook), and want a long, reflective Camino before joining the international crowd in Spain. The gîtes are excellent and affordable.
FAQ
How long does the Le Puy route take?
About 4–5 weeks to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, and another 4–5 weeks on the Francés to Santiago — ~10 weeks total.
Do I need to speak French?
It helps. Many rural gîtes have limited English. A phrasebook or translation app is enough.
Can I walk just part of the Le Puy route?
Yes. The Conques–Moissac section is a popular 5–7 day taster.
Plan your Camino
The Le Puy route is a journey in itself. Browse all Camino routes and plan your Le Puy route.
Explore the route
Le Puy Camino
Plan your Camino
The Le Puy route (GR 65) is the most popular French Camino — ~750 km from Le Puy-en-Velay through southern France to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. Stages, gîtes, and planning.