VTT N°10 - The Black Wood
Along scenic trails through the woods and sections of singletrack, this easy route winds through a beautiful landscape dotted with remarkable heritage sites : a chapel, a statue-menhir, and the birthplace of the famous archaeologist Abbé Hermet. At the end of the route, enjoy panoramic views over Saint-Izaire, a true red sandstone gem on the banks of the Dourdou River.
Description
Climb up to the Notre-Dame de Grâce Chapel, then go around it on the left to join the former railway line, which leads you towards the hamlet of Les Roques.
- Follow a red dirt track along the hillside until you reach a statue-menhir. Take the path on the right to reach the top of the woods.
- Continue eastwards, then descend towards the Cambon plain (near the Bousquet farm). On the left, the track takes you back up to the top of the Bois Noir.
- A shaded trail leads you back towards Mas Capelier (the birthplace of Abbé Hermet), then to the road. Cross the road and go through the hamlet of Riols.
- Further along the road, a trail on the left takes you back to the chapel, offering commanding views over the village of Saint-Izaire.
- Departure : At the bridge on the village side, Saint-Izaire
- Arrival : At the bridge on the village side, Saint-Izaire
- Towns crossed : Saint-Izaire and Calmels-et-le-Viala
Forecast
Altimetric profile
Recommandations
Box tree moths are active from May to October. During the caterpillar phase, they feed on the leaves of box trees. They crawl down trees and move on long silken threads, although these threads are annoying when hiking they do not pose any health risk
Bring a supply of water and suitable clothing.
Transport
All the information is available on the Tourist Office website.
Access and parking
From Saint-Affrique, take the road towards Albi, then at Vabres-l’Abbaye turn right onto the D25 towards Saint-Izaire.
Parking :
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