This beautiful walk goes through scrubland and past beautiful vineyards in the direction of the Gorges du Brian. The route then goes all the way through the gorge, with beautiful views along the way, in the direction of the charming village of Minerve. In the village of Minerve, the river Briant joins the Cesse. Because both streams have eroded tens of meters deep into the limestone, a well-defendable plateau was created at the confluence to which Minerve owes its existence.
Distance: 9 km.
Time: 3h30.
Grade: Moderate.
Type: Circular.
Gps Track: Yes.
Route description: Yes.
Wheelchair: Not suitable.
Dog: Allowed.
Height gain: 449 meters.
Trail: Paved and unpaved.
Marking: Yellow dash.
Hiking shoes recommended.
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Minerve and the Cesse.
The route is mostly on unpaved roads through vineyards and the typical scrubland, called garrigue. After crossing the D147, you start a steep descent on a concrete path to the Brian gorge. You now go on a footpath that follows the river upstream to the beautiful Pont de Daniel bridge. You cross the river and start a climb out of the gorge. On the way you have beautiful views of the gorge and the surroundings. Once you are out of the gorge, you follow a dirt road parallel to the gorge. On the other side you can see the charming village of Minerve. You now descend all the way into the gorge, cross the river and climb via stairs to the village, where you should definitely take some time to explore it.
Download PDF for route description and map.
Take plenty of drinking water with you in hot weather.
Very well marked.
POI 2 - Gorgess du Brian.
The Gorges du Brian is a deep gorge carved by the River Brian, with impressive limestone rock formations and caves formed over the centuries. The steep cliffs tower high above the river and offer breathtaking views.
No additional information.
POI 3 - Minerve.
In the village of Minerve, the Brian river joins the Cesse. Because both streams have eroded tens of metres deep into the limestone, a well-defended plateau was created at the confluence to which Minerve owes its existence. You can visit parts of the old fortifications, including the remains of watchtowers and walls. There are also a few signs with information about the Cathars and the siege of Minerve in the 13th century.
No additional information.
