Lespéron brings together a specific hiking plan, medieval connections and an insight into beekeeping. The circular hike, historical connections and architectural features, and discovery days at apiaries offer different focal points for a stay.

The Mauras–Lespéron Hike

The PR Mauras–Lespéron circular trail is moderately challenging, 7.6 kilometres long and listed as taking three hours. It starts and ends at Lespéron village square. The elevation profile includes 189 metres of ascent and 189 metres of descent. The time estimate provides a practical guide for planning the day; allow extra time for breaks. Check local conditions before setting out, as trail conditions can change.

At the start of the hike, the Lavillatte volcano is visible; today it is a pozzolana quarry. The trail runs above the Espézonnette valley. The river itself remains unspoilt and rich in fish, and is home to brown trout. This route therefore offers encounters with different landscapes: the visible volcano and its current use, and the valley with its river.

Medieval Connections in Lespéron

Lespéron is the birthplace of the troubadour Perdigon, who was born there around 1170–1175. The historic Chemin de Régordane also passed through the village in the 12th and 13th centuries. The route ran from Saint-Gilles du Gard to Le Puy-en-Velay, two important pilgrimage sites. Perdigon’s biography and the history of the route connect Lespéron with the Middle Ages in different ways: one through a literary figure born there, the other through a historic route between pilgrimage sites.

Church and Tower: Different Stonework

The Eglise de Lespèron is a listed Romanesque church. Its first known mention dates from the 11th century; it is built of carefully laid polychrome stone. According to tourist information, the church is open daily throughout the year and admission is free. Check access information before your visit.

The tower of Concoules is also built of carefully laid stone, in this case granite. It is about 20 metres high and measures ten metres on each side. Polychrome stone defines the church’s appearance, while the tower is characterised by its granite and its recorded dimensions. These offer a chance to see two different architectural details without combining them into a single building history.

Discovery Days at the Apiaries

Les abeilles de Jojo et Angy offers discovery days at the apiaries, with tastings available. This adds an insight into beekeeping to the hike and local history. If you are planning a discovery day or a tasting, check the specific dates and options in advance. There are several interests to choose from when planning: the three-hour circular hike, medieval traces and architectural features, or a visit related to the apiaries.

Discover more destinations: Gras, Barnas, Cheminas, Mariac, Lavilledieu, Champis, Félines, Gravières

For the wider travel guide: Ardèche.