Beautiful but quite physical. At the exit of Prémian, take the direction of Langlade and of the Saut de Vesoles. The trail climbs regularly, it suffered a lot during the winter 2014-2015. After a short descent, you arrive at Langlade, keep some strength as the serious things begin. After Langlade, face 600m of positive difference in altitude in 2.7km (1.2miles), it's hard uphill, it's wild and it requires some concentration. In wet weather, it can quickly become tricky. Follow the torrent as close as possible. The path of a thousand steps (sentiers des milles marches) really lives up to its name. Don't hope to pass through a big storm... The only break in this world of verticality is the horizontal guard path, which you follow for a small kilometre (less than 0.6miles).
At the top, the contrast is striking: everything is flat. The positive difference in altitude of the stage is done, but you are not halfway up the mileage... The rest of the stage is less picturesque but more restful. There are wide tracks, magnificent views and remarkable mushroom beds in the autumn... The arrival at the windmill field tells you that you have arrived at the Col de Fontfroide. If you decide to spend the night at the gîte d'étape de Flacheraud, there is 1.5km (0.9miles) left.
Prémian city hall parking lot Prémian - Non drinkable water at Camp Blanc
Prémian
