Lozere, the land of hiking

Former land of Gevaudan crossed by the mountains of the Cevennes, Margeride, and Aubrac in the Occitanie region

Lozere: this name may come from the Gallic word "lausa", flat stone; a pre-Indo-European word that was adopted by the Gauls. In French, a lauze is a stone slab used to cover roofs. Its composition would be "lausa" – "serre" ("serre" is certainly a pre-Latin term that designates an elongated mountain. [Place names of Franche-Comte, G. Taverdet] - The bas-Latin "serra", mountain, is, in this sense, perhaps pre-Latin [Etymological Dictionary of Latin, Ernout and Meillet]).

Lozere is the land of extremes. It is the least populated department in France (72,000 inhabitants), but it has the highest average altitude. It is the poorest department, representing less than a thousandth of national income; conversely, it has the richest air in ozone. There is no industry in Lozere, except for the Creusot-Loire factory in Saint-Chely-d'Apcher in the northern part of the department, but there are landscapes of great beauty, a tortured relief, and a thousand small rivers rich in trout.

On the great causses, on the rounded mountains of Aubrac, on the grassy slopes of the Cevennes, on the crests of Margeride, everywhere here one breathes an air of eternity... In the evening, as the sun is about to disappear, as the causse blends with the sky, when the herds return, the visitor can only think of biblical times and feel the soul of Virgil. Lozere is the department that has only one traffic light! Yet another record, but it does not constitute a handicap...

Lozere is the ancient Gevaudan, and even further, the pagus Gabalicus of Pliny, which had as its capital the Gallo-Roman city of Gabalum, today a small village in the center of the department called Javols. Javols and its famous excavation site. A land of tough men living in a harsh climate, the Lozeriens are known for their sense of hospitality and their attachment to their native soil. The department's vocation is primarily agricultural; long isolated, it has largely opened up to tourism despite the narrow and winding roads that are so full of charm. The development of interest in nature has made Lozere the ideal land for horseback rides and hiking.

For the city dweller, coming to Lozere is a bit of an adventure, even if the beast of Gevaudan passed away one day in June 1767. A land of legends, which the hardest realities have not spared, Lozere has remained, sheltered from pollution and the great currents of civilization, a new, clean, pure land that does not reveal itself all at once; a land that deserves to be discovered; a land that distinguished economists have referred to as the "French desert." It is a living desert appreciated by all those who aspire to weeks of true relaxation; the land of happy holidays.

Lozere is a paradise for hikers. With its 7000 kilometers of marked trails, it offers hiking possibilities for all levels, from beginners to the most experienced. The department is crossed by three mountain ranges: the Cevennes, the Margeride, and the Aubrac. The Cevennes, with their steep terrain, offer grandiose landscapes, notably Mont Lozere, the highest point in the department. The Margeride, softer, is suitable for walking and horseback riding. Aubrac, with its green plateaus, is a land of livestock and traditions.

Lozere is home to diverse fauna and flora. It is home to deer, wild boars, badgers, mouflons, marmots, vultures, eagles, falcons, and owls. The flora is also rich. Notably, there are oaks, chestnut trees, beeches, pines, firs, wildflowers, and medicinal plants.

Lozere has a long and rich history. It has been inhabited by humans since prehistoric times. The department has been marked by numerous historical periods, including the Gallo-Roman period, the medieval period, and modern times. Lozere has also been the site of many important historical events, such as the Camisard revolt in the 17th century and the French Revolution.

The economy of Lozere is based on agriculture, tourism, and craftsmanship.
Agriculture is the main economic sector of the department. It accounts for about 25% of GDP. Lozere is a land of livestock, particularly sheep and cattle. It is also a land for the production of cereals, fruits, and vegetables. Tourism is another important sector of the Lozere economy. The department attracts many tourists each year, especially for its natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. Handicrafts are also a dynamic sector in Lozere. The department is home to many artisans who produce local products, such as wooden, leather, textile, or glass items. Other economic sectors are also present in Lozere, including industry, commerce, and services. The industry is primarily represented by the wood, metallurgy, and agricultural product processing industries.

Organic farming in Lozere represents an opportunity not only for farmers but also for consumers seeking healthy and environmentally friendly products. By combining tradition, innovation, and respect for ecosystems, organic farmers contribute to the preservation of landscapes and the revitalization of the local economy. This trend is part of a broader movement towards sustainable and responsible agriculture, essential for the future of agriculture in France and beyond.

Former holiday hotel with a garden along the Allier, L'Etoile Guest House is located in La Bastide-Puylaurent between Lozere, Ardeche, and the Cevennes in the mountains of Southern France. At the crossroads of GR®7, GR®70 Stevenson Path, GR®72, GR®700 Regordane Way, GR®470 Allier River springs and gorges, GRP® Cevenol, Ardechoise Mountains, Margeride. Numerous loop trails for hiking and one-day biking excursions. Ideal for a relaxing and hiking getaway.