Lauzerte to Moissac: planning your GR65 stage

After Cahors and before reaching the Garonne valley, the stage from Lauzerte to Moissac is one that many walkers on the GR65 (the via Podiensis, the French section of the Camino de Santiago) look forward to with a mix of anticipation and caution: it marks the end of the Quercy blanc hills and the approach to gentler landscapes, but it still deserves proper preparation.

Terrain and landscape

The route first crosses the Quercy blanc hills, a landscape of low ridges and valleys with short climbs and descents, before gradually flattening out as you get closer to the Tarn. The final kilometres before Moissac are noticeably flatter than the start of the stage. The total distance varies depending on the variant chosen - the GR65 has several local options - and can change between editions of the topo-guide, so it is worth checking the exact distance and elevation profile in a current guide or with a pilgrim association before setting out, rather than relying on a fixed figure.

Path and markers

The trail alternates dirt tracks, field paths and a few short stretches of tarmac near the hamlets. As on the rest of the GR65, the route follows the white-and-red markers of the French Grande Randonnée network, backed up by the yellow shell or arrow specific to the Camino. This double marking is useful on such a long stage, especially at junctions inside the hamlets, where it is easy to miss a turn if you are not paying attention.

Water and supplies

The stage passes through several hamlets and small villages where it is usually possible to refill water bottles; away from these stops, springs or fountains cannot be relied on, depending on the season. The same rule applies here as on any stage of the Camino: top up water at every village you pass through rather than waiting until you run low, and carry enough capacity for the exposed stretches in midsummer, when the heat on the Quercy ridges can be significant.

Accommodation along the way

Gîtes d'étape and chambres d'hôtes are spread along this section of the GR65, making it possible to split the stage rather than walking it in one go if needed. As with most accommodation on the Camino, booking ahead is advisable in peak season, when the number of walkers is highest; the tourist offices in Lauzerte and Moissac, as well as pilgrim associations, can point towards what is available on the day.

Arriving in Moissac

As the path descends towards the valley, it gradually reaches the historic centre of Moissac and its Saint-Pierre Abbey, a landmark visible from a distance. For walkers continuing west the next day, the next leg of the journey is covered in the article on the Moissac to Auvillar stage. General information on reaching Moissac by other means is gathered on the home page.