Rules and precautions (1) for walking in France

Experienced hill and mountain walkers will be familiar with the rules and precautions necessary when walking in mountainous areas. The notes given here include the usual information plus some especially important in the Cantal.

It is essential for any walk in the mountains that someone knows your plan for the day and your estimated time of return. This information must be given to e.g. hotelier, camp site owner etc. before leaving on the walk.

Mountainous areas in France are no different to anywhere else--the weather can change very rapidly. Walking boots, or good quality walking trainers, are recommended for all walks. Warm clothing and protection against rain are essential items to carry. In the summer months a hat is recommended for protection from the sun at high altitudes.

A map is essential for all walks and a compass is strongly recommended - particularly in deteriorating weather. Walking sticks or poles are recommended and are particularly useful for steep descents (which exist in the Cantal). Sticks can also be useful protection against reputedly unfriendly Cantal farm dogs although they usually make more noise than pose a serious threat.

A typical walkers first-aid kit should be carried. In its simplest form this would consist of analgesic tablets, plasters, crepe bandage, antiseptic wipes, triangular bandage, No.8 bandage, ambulance dressing, scissors and safety pins. Vital additions to the list, particularly in the summer months, are sun-tan lotion/cream, insect repellent, anti-histamine cream and water purifying tablets.

The essential maps for walking in France are the IGN Blue Series at a scale of 1 : 25,000 i.e. 40mm to 1km. The maps cover the whole of France with the most important areas being designated the "Top 25". All GR's and PR's are clearly marked and are usually accurate. Other tracks and footpaths are also marked but care must be exercised in creating routes using them. Whether these tracks are open depends on the farmer whose land they are on. Some farmers are very friendly and helpful--there are others who are hostile and delight in "Propriété Privé" and "Défense d'entrer" signs.