Stage 2 of the Via Podiensis (GR 65) covers 19.8 km from Saint-Privat-d'Allier to Saugues, with 622 m of ascent and 535 m of descent. The highest point is 1,099 m. Allow about 5.5 hours of walking, plus breaks.
Distance, climb and elevation come from the Outest route data. Difficulty and time are estimates from distance and climb; your pace will vary with heat, pack weight and photo stops.
Holiday and group centre that also takes pilgrims in Saugues, on the trail (40 beds in dormitories, €21.30 a bed, €44.30 half board). Open 2 March to 31 October; booking recommended.
Municipal gîte d'étape in Saugues, on the trail (15 beds in dormitories, €16.50 a bed). Open Easter to 31 October; booking recommended.
Private gîte d'étape in Saugues, on the trail (12 beds in dormitories, €22 a bed, €46 half board). Open 1 April to 31 October; booking recommended.
Checked online in October 2026. Places marked "listed, not confirmed" appear on a public pilgrim listing (Gronze.com) but could not be confirmed on their own website. Most gîtes open only from about April to October and expect a booking: call a day or two ahead, earlier in May, June and September. Domaine du Sauvage has a single gîte, and small villages such as Lascabanes, Aroue and Ostabat have only a few beds.
Emergency: call 112. Medical emergency: 15 (SAMU). Fire and rescue: 18. Emergency & health guide
Pharmacies, ATMs, shops and stops: © OpenStreetMap contributors. Hospitals and health centres checked online.
The full stage works offline in Outest, with the route, elevation, water and village points, and a trail guide you can ask about conditions and the next place to sleep.