Espalion
The Vía Podiensis
Espalion is the largest town you'll have encountered since Le Puy-en-Velay, and it has everything you need: supermarkets, banks, pharmacy, doctors, post office, outdoor shops, and a good selection of restaurants and accommodation. It sits on both banks of the Lot river, which runs green and clear through the center of town.
The Pont Vieux, a graceful 11th-century bridge of pink sandstone, is the centerpiece of the town and is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list as part of the Santiago routes in France. The old tannery buildings along the riverbank below the bridge, with their wooden balconies overhanging the water, are distinctive to Espalion and give the town its particular character.
On the south bank, the Vieux Palais is a Renaissance building with defensive towers overlooking the Lot. The Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste, built in red sandstone, dates from the 15th century.
Take the time to resupply here. The section ahead through the hills to Conques has limited services.
Market day is Tuesday. The Fete de l'Espalionnais in early August features local food, music, and events.
Espalion grew as a crossing point on the Lot and as a market town for the surrounding agricultural region. The Pont Vieux dates from the 11th century and has been in continuous use since its construction. The tanning industry that gave the town its distinctive riverside buildings was active from the medieval period into the 20th century. The Musee Joseph Vaylet in the former church of Saint John houses a collection of local arts and traditions.
From Espalion the GR65 heads south along the Lot toward Bessuéjouls and then Estaing. The walking is pleasant, following the river valley through gentle countryside. Estaing is about 11 km away.
Accommodation in Espalion.
| Gîte d´étape Au Fil de l'Eau 17-20€ 15 |
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| Gîte d´étape du Pont Vieux 17€ 12 |
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| Gîte d´étape La Halte Saint Jacques 20€ 18 Booking.com |
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