The Jordanne Valley
The Jordanne Valley – a leafy valley with an alpine air
The Jordanne Valley is a leafy valley with an alpine air about it. It is one of the glacial valleys which originate at Puy Mary. The Gorges de la Jordanne cover 3km between Saint-Julien and Saint-Cirgues and have a wealth of heritage buildings and sporting activities.
Until recently the gorges were only accessible to fishermen, but a trail of bridges and walkways means that everyone can now discover this magical place ! The waterside walk along the river in summer is a refreshing break during your stay.
The Gorges de la Jordanne discovery trail takes you from the depths of the gorges to the top of the cliffs which overlook them. The 4km trail is totally secure and is a fun, informative walk for everyone and a wonderful opportunity to admire the flora and fauna of the mysterious gorges which the River Jordanne has hollowed out over the centuries in breaches in the volcano.
This unique natural attraction is also home to many birds which live on the river bank, like the white-throated dipper and the grey wagtail. The white-throated dipper feeds on aquatic insects which it catches by walking under the water ! This little bird, which is about the size of a blackbird, lives in several Cantal valleys including the Vallée du Mars and the Vallée de la Cère. The wagtails are small, black and yellow birds which can be recognised by their undulating flight.
To watch these tiny local inhabitants, sit on one of the benches or have a picnic at one of the tables along the trail.
The Gorges de la Jordanne – an adventure playground !
After discovering the gorges along the conventional trail, try a more sensational experience like rock climbing, Via Ferrata, monkey bridges, zip wires, etc. Murmur & Nature is an association of passionate professionals and regular participants of canyoning, Via Ferrata, mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, trail-running who offer an alternative way to discover Cantal and the Vallée de la Jordanne.
Delphine, a Gîtes de France expert, visited the Gorges de la Jordanne with her family and recommends this family outing : « The discovery trail through the Gorges de la Jordanne was a great hit with all the family. We had a lovely time at the water’s edge with the children including my 18-month old daughter who was happily installed in the baby back pack borrowed from the ticket office ».
The Gorges de la Jordanne is open from 1 June to 30 September, at other times depending on the weather and for groups by prior reservation.
June : Monday – Friday 14.00 – 18.00, Saturday, Sunday 09.30 – 19.30. July and August : Every day 09.30 – 19.30 (last entry 17.30). September : Monday – Friday 14.00 – 18.00, Saturday, Sunday 10.00 – 18.00.
At all other times, please ring 04 71 47 93 95 for information.
The Gorges de la Jordanne are reached via D17 (Aurillac-Puy Mary). There is a car park between Lascelles and Saint-Cirgues de Jordanne, the ticket office is just below it (entrance fee payable).
To take part in sporting activities ring Murmur & Nature on 06 09 35 21 67.
