Aire de La Malène
Équipements et services
Description
Tourisme
La Malène (Lozère, France)
La Malène is a small village located in the heart of the Gorges du Tarn, set directly on the banks of the Tarn. A natural entry point to the spectacular limestone cliffs, it serves as a practical base for river activities and hikes on the nearby causses. The atmosphere remains that of a rural Lozère village, with stone houses and terraces overlooking the river. The place attracts both families looking for swimming and tranquility and outdoor enthusiasts.
Heritage and history
The built environment retains a traditional character, with stone houses and narrow lanes that evoke the valley’s long-standing occupation. The village lived for a long time from the river and from the agropastoralism of the surrounding causses. One can still perceive traces of a past linked to river trade and transhumance.
Nature and landscapes
The limestone cliffs framing the Tarn offer striking panoramas and strong contrasts between calm water and steep faces. The proximity of the Causse Méjean and the Causse de Sauveterre offers open horizons, dry grasslands and karstic mesas typical of Lozère.
Outdoor activities
La Malène is a frequent starting point for canoe-kayak on the Tarn, boat rides and waymarked hikes along the gorges. Climbing, caving and mountain biking are also practiced on the surrounding cliffs and causses.
Not to be missed
- Gorges du Tarn: panoramas and viewpoints along the gorge road.
- Swimming and canoeing on the Tarn: descents accessible from the village.
- Viewpoints: vantage points over the cliffs and the valley.
- Trails of the Causse Méjean: hikes and observation of pastoral flora.
- Walk through the village: lanes and terraces by the water.