Ranc de Bane

Ranc de Bane is a mountain peak in the Gard department that rises to 713 meters and offers sweeping views from its summit. The outlook extends across the Rieutord Valley and toward the Cévennes mountains, a landscape shaped by limestone plateaus and deep gorges.

Caves within and around this massif hold evidence of some of the region's earliest human occupation, showing continuous habitation over millennia. These archaeological findings indicate that people have inhabited this landscape for countless generations.

The area around this peak is part of the Causses and Cévennes, a landscape recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. This designation reflects the region's importance as a distinctive Mediterranean and continental ecosystem.

A circular trail starting from Sumène reaches the summit and covers about 13 kilometers with roughly 5 to 6 hours of walking required. The hike involves a moderate climb of around 600 meters in elevation gain.

The Combe Chaude Nature Reserve sits on the slopes of this summit and protects bat colonies and nesting sites for birds of prey. Visitors may catch glimpses of wildlife in these quieter zones along the hiking trail.

Location: Gard

Elevation above the sea: 713 m

GPS coordinates: 43.97432,3.73107

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:27