Where is Saint-Jean-d’Alcapiès located ?
Just a few minutes from Saint-Affrique and the A75 motorway, Saint-Jean-d’Alcapiès offers easy access while remaining surrounded by unspoiled nature. Its privileged location puts you within reach of the region’s must-see sites: Roquefort with its legendary cheese cellars carved into the rock, Millau and its spectacular viaduct, the Templar and Hospitaller villages, as well as countless hiking and trail-running routes winding across the causses.
It’s the perfect starting point to explore the Grands Causses on foot, by bike, or on horseback, in a spirit of slow tourism and 100% nature.
A Nature Destination with Many Facets
In Saint-Jean-d’Alcapiès, nature reveals itself in every form! This true haven of peace, nestled between causses and valleys, is the perfect starting point for outdoor adventures, suited to all tastes and skill levels.
La Voie Verte du Saint-Affricain : a scenic route for everyone: Discover a preserved natural landscape along the Voie Verte du Saint-Affricain, a gentle family-friendly trail built on an old railway line. Stretching nearly 8 kilometers, enjoy its cool and shaded woodlands… all easily explored on foot, by bike, or on horseback, in the spirit of 100 % slow tourism.
- Le tour d’Alzac : This 4.2 km family-friendly circuit invites you to explore the iconic farmhouses of Saint-Jean-d’Alcapiès, such as Castel Crémat and Mas de la Moulinerie. Wander along boxwood-lined paths and stone walls, and immerse yourself in the region’s agropastoral history, all within a charming, unspoiled countryside setting.
- Le Volcan des Causses : Walk in the footsteps of an ancient volcano from 2.5 million years ago by exploring the foothills of the crater near the village of Alcapiès. This 7.8 km loop offers breathtaking views of the Combalou and Taulan plateaus, while giving you the chance to spot fossils that tell the story of the region’s fascinating geological past.
- Entre causse et vallées : 22 km of escape through the Sorgues Valley, the heights of Hermilix, and traditional farmland landscapes. Perfect for lovers of wide-open spaces and rural heritage.
- Sentier des Collines : Offering a full immersion in nature, this 15.85 km route takes you to the hamlet of Saint-Étienne-de-Naucoules before descending along the Truans stream. The final climb to the highest point of the hike rewards you with panoramic views over the Sorgues and Dourdou valleys — an unforgettable moment of discovery in the heart of the causse.
Mountain bike and trail routes : from relaxed fun to sporting challenge
Mountain biking and trail running enthusiasts will find an exceptional playground around Saint-Jean-d’Alcapiès, with plateaus, causses, forests, and hamlets to explore. Four marked trails await you :
- N°5 – Causse de Nissac : An easy and accessible route, perfect for immersing yourself in the pastoral landscapes of the Avant-Causses. Don’t miss the Hermilix lavogne, a traditional watering hole, and its millennia-old dolmen — a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
- Panoramas caussenards : An intermediate-level escape across the high plateaus of the Causse de Nissac. This route offers a true immersion in rural and medieval heritage, featuring a green tunnel, a Roman bridge, an old farmhouse, and the Cistercian fort of Saint-Jean-d’Alcas.
- N°16 – Montagnes russes grandeur nature : For experienced mountain bikers : over 1,100 m of elevation gain, rugged ridges, the Loubière plateau, and thrilling descents along the Verzolet. Adrenaline guaranteed!
- Trail N°27 – Sensations garanties sur les crêtes du causse : A technical and dynamic 20 km route, featuring alternating climbs, descents, exposed trails, and spectacular views. Perfect for trail runners seeking challenge and authenticity.