Hiking tour "La Joannade"

Description

A path takes you right up to the statue of the virgin Mary, also called the statue de la Joanade, donated by the Pavin de Lafarge family in 1861. The fires of St John were lit on top of the hill, hence the name. Wonderful panoramic view over the town.

Start at the town hall 2 Avenue Pierre Mendès France (RD 86), 07220 Viviers (large car park below). Go around the building to the west and go down to the main courtyard and then exit through the large gate. To the right of the car park, cross the D86 on the pedestrian crossing then turn right. At the roundabout, take the narrow street to the left then go up to the left. Continue to the statue of the "protective" Virgin by following a small winding path, marked yellow and white.
(This statue, erected in 1861 on the site of an old cross, was offered by the Pavin de Lafarge family as a pledge of prosperity for the city. Its base offers a panoramic view of the city, the Saint-Vincent cathedral (the smallest cathedral in France still in use) and the episcopal palace (dating from the 18th century, current location of the town hall following an exchange between the mayor and the bishop in 1986. The bishopric is now in the Hôtel de Roqueplane, the former town hall of the 18th century). And, to the south-east, the statue of Saint Michel (this archangel would have protected Viviers from the bombings during the 2nd World War)
From the statue, take the path raised by a low wall, continue to the right. The path widens. Always follow the white and yellow markings. arrived at the water tower, to go back down into the town, take the path to the right that passes above the cemetery. Then, take the street which descends by turning. Arrived at the road, cross it to reach the place Riquet on which is the statue of Charles de Foucauld, as well as the diocesan house (former major seminary).

From there, go down rue de la République on the right and reach the Place de la République where the house of the Knights is located, with its very ornate facade in the Renaissance style (this was commissioned by Noël Albert, a wealthy merchant from the city).

From the square you can choose to return by following the Grande-Rue (which was once the main artery of the city and is lined with several 18th century mansions, with very interesting facades). Or you can go up the street du Château to follow the discovery trail and the white and red markings of the GR 429. In the middle of rue O'Farel, pass the gate on your right, go up to the cathedral, go and see the Châteauvieux esplanade on your left then return at the forecourt and cross the Place Saint-Jean. Take the vaulted passage then descend the ascent of the shelter. A staircase on your left brings you back to the town hall car park, otherwise go all the way down.

Recommendations : wear walking shoes and take drinks and a hat.