The trail to Serre de Taravel starts at Saint-Pierre Church in Malons and climbs to an altitude of 969 metres. Along the way, views open up over Mont-Lozère and Tanargue. In Malons-et-Elze, a clearly identified hiking destination meets Romanesque heritage.

Landscape and hiking trails

Malons-et-Elze lies within the optimal membership area of the Cévennes National Park. The Serre de Taravel ridge overlooks the Cèze and Ardèche drainage basins. These geographical features frame the landscape: the ridge is both a hiking destination and a landmark between the two basins.

Two different local routes are available for longer hikes. The GR44A passes through Malons and connects to Les Vans via a 46-kilometre circular route. The second stage of the GR® de Pays Haute Vallée de la Cèze runs from Malons-et-Elze to Aujac. It is marked in yellow and supplemented by local signposting. As route details and markings can change, check this information again before setting out.

Forest trails and activities

The Sentier du Mas de l’Ayre is a discovery trail through the Mas de l’Ayre forest. Its themes include the cycles of forest life and the mining history that shaped the area for a long time. The trail thus combines nature-related themes with a look at the region’s history. If you are looking for a guided activity other than hiking, the Mas de l’Ayre leisure site also offers electric scooter tours. The site also has a treetop adventure course for children and adults aged two and over. As conditions vary by season, check the latest information before visiting.

L’accro-parc has nine treetop courses that vary in height and difficulty. The layout may change, so check the latest information before your visit. Donkey hikes are offered by Asinerie Badjâne at Le Blacheyral in Cessénades, Malons-et-Elze. Confirm the latest arrangements before travelling. En Forêt offers courses, workshops and training, as well as support for children and adults. Programmes may vary, so it is worth checking the association’s current schedule.

Saint-Pierre Church and Château d’Elze

The Romanesque Saint-Pierre Church sits at an altitude of more than 800 metres and features finely carved capitals. Its architectural details also include an apse and a façade made of grey granite from the neighbouring plateau. The trail to Serre de Taravel starts at this church, making it a clear reference point for both the local description and the start of the hike. The Château d’Elze, a historic building dating from the 14th century, is also part of the architectural heritage.

Getting there and other destinations

Malons-et-Elze is about 56 kilometres north of Alès and can be reached via the D 906 and D 155. When travelling, take current road conditions and any access restrictions into account. The routes described offer different starting points for exploring the area: from the trail to Serre de Taravel and long-distance stages to forest trails and adventure activities. You can shape your trip around the landscape and cultural themes that interest you.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Privat-De-Champclos, Mus, Tornac, Manduel, Molières-Sur-Cèze, Vézénobres, Rochegude, Congénies.

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