Sumène lies at the outlet of the Gorges du Rieutord, in the Cévennes National Park and amid mountains with agricultural terraces. Visitors can choose from several ways to explore the area: the Voie Verte on a former railway line, circular hikes of varying difficulty, and local heritage. The landscape is more than just a backdrop: at Le Courpatas, dry-stone-wall terraces follow the Rieutord, while nearby Le Ranc de Banes is notable both as a hiking destination and as a summit.

Exploring the former railway line

The Voie Verte - Ganges Sumène is 4.5 kilometres long and follows a former railway line. Five viaducts and two illuminated tunnels are among the route’s distinctive features. It is intended for pedestrians, cyclists, people with reduced mobility, and horse riders. This makes it a different way to get around from the two circular hikes: the route combines a manageable length with structures along the former railway line. Route conditions and accessibility can change; check both before setting out.

Hikes of varying difficulty

Le Courpatas is an easy circular hike in Sumène: it is 5.6 kilometres long, takes 2 hours and 30 minutes, and is marked in yellow. The trail follows the Rieutord and passes terraces with dry-stone walls. Le Ranc de Banes, by contrast, is rated as a difficult circular hike. It covers 13.7 kilometres and takes 6 hours and 30 minutes; the start and finish are on Avenue de la Gare in Sumène. The stated hiking times differ by four hours. This comparison can help you decide whether a shorter loop or a considerably longer hike better fits your day’s plans. Check trail conditions and markings for Le Courpatas, and route conditions and signage for Le Ranc de Banes, locally before setting out.

Summit and history

Le Ranc de Banes is a 713-metre-high summit in the municipality of Sumène. The oldest traces of human settlement found in this area were discovered in caves on the mountain. Alongside today’s hiking trails, the cave discoveries give this landscape a long historical dimension. Anyone interested in the history of settlement will find a special connection to the mountain here, although the hiking information alone does not describe a visit to the caves.

Heritage and cultural activities

The Prieuré de Cézas can be visited independently at any time, free of charge. The same applies to the historic site of Sumène, cité cévenole. Check local access conditions before planning a visit.

Les Transes Cévenoles is a festival of artistic discovery that has been held since 1998. Its year-round programme focuses on street arts and contemporary music. It also supports creative projects and cultural and educational activities in the Sud Cévennes area. If you would like to plan your trip around a specific event, check the dates in advance.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Issirac, Domazan, Mus, Pompignan, Saint-Julien-de-la-Nef, Bernis, Aspères, Laudun-L'ardoise

For the main travel overview: Gard.