Corbès combines a circular walking trail with local history that spans religious, horticultural and industrial chapters. The Panorama de Valaurie has a specified distance and duration; the Temple, Jardin Clos and Papeterie represent different historical themes. This can help you decide whether to focus your stay on a hike or on the history of the area.
A circular route starting and ending in Corbès
The Panorama de Valaurie is 7.4 kilometres long and forms a circular route. The stated duration is 2 hours and 30 minutes. It starts and ends in Corbès, so the starting point and destination are the same. Yellow markings and directional posts mark the route. The distance and stated duration provide a specific framework for planning your hike; the markings help you navigate the trail.
Temple, priory and Jardin Clos
The history of the Temple de Corbès spans several historical contexts. The former Priory of Saint Michel de Corbès is documented as early as the 14th century. The Temple is located in the former Church of Saint Michel, founded by monks from Aniane. In 1808, it was officially declared a Temple. The church, priory and later designation therefore belong to different chapters in the history of the area.
Jardin Clos de Corbès also links a date with a distinctive architectural feature: it was laid out in 1774 and is a hydraulic installation. A spring is captured at the bottom of a well, and a basin serves as a water reservoir. The site can therefore be understood not only through its garden history, but also through the use and storage of water. During the 2022 renovation, the boundary walls were restored and a gate was installed.
From mill to papermill
La Papeterie de Corbès tells the story of a change of use: it was established around 1820 by converting the Moulin Baron, built in 1791. The paper mill specialised in so-called “boucherie” paper. Its production used lime, straw and recycled waste paper. The combination of an older mill, its later conversion and the unusual materials makes this story a distinct part of Corbès’s industrial heritage.
The Pont du Mescladou and the railway
The Pont du Mescladou is a curved viaduct with eleven arches. It is located where the Gardon de Saint-Jean-du-Gard and the Gardon de Mialet meet. It was built in the early 20th century during construction of the railway line from Anduze to Saint-Jean-du-Gard; today, it is used by the tourist route of the Train à vapeur des Cévennes. The viaduct thus brings together two distinct aspects: its location where two rivers meet and its role in railway history.
More stories and activities
Le Moulin du Temps has a different history of use: the building was first a silkworm nursery, later served as a sheepfold, and then fell into disrepair. It offers platters of local products, including charcuterie and cheese. The offerings may change, so check whether they are available before your visit.
In the context of the municipality of Thoiras-Corbès, the Vélorail des Cévennes offers the 10.2-kilometre “Les Viaducs” route for experienced participants. For the walk in Corbès, both the distance and duration are specified; for “Les Viaducs,” the focus is on distance and experience level. These different details can help you compare the two activities using the information provided for planning each one.
Discover more destinations: Le Pin, Gailhan, Castelnau-Valence, Saint-Laurent-D'aigouze, Montfaucon, Cardet, Cros, Sanilhac-Sagriès
For the broader travel overview: Gard.
