Top 10 things to do in Millau

Millau is a beautiful town nestled between the Causse Rouge and the Causse du Larzac, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area of windswept, river-carved limestone plateaus is a popular playground for athletes. Hiking, cycling, caving, climbing, and via ferrata await you. Lovers of old buildings will not be left out, as the region has a rich history. You can experience a slice of French history in these magnificent Templar commanderies, vestiges of the glory days of these medieval institutions. And for those who want to admire a work of modern art and an engineering challenge, the Millau Viaduct is sure to impress! To make the most of your stay in the Tarn Aveyron, we've put together a Top 10 list of must-do activities in Millau.

Opening photo: © AltitudeDrone / AdobeStock

1) Take a guided or self-guided city tour

To get to know the city better, we recommend starting with a guided tour. The Millau Grands Causses tourist office organizes them on different themes: The essentials of the city, the history of glove making, views of the city from the Belfry, " Aligot hike "... There's something to satisfy all your desires!

2) Go back in time to the Gallo-Roman origins of Millau

Millau enjoys a strategic position between the Causses and the banks of the Tarn. It has always been coveted, and not only militarily. Thus, sigillata pottery was a leading industry in Gaul. Pieces from the Graufesenque archaeological site in Millau were exported throughout Roman lands.

3) Learn more about the Templars at La Couvertoirade

Even today, the secrets and grim fate of the Knights Templar remain as fascinating as ever. La Couvertoirade offers a journey back to the medieval era. It demonstrates the importance of fortifications during the Hundred Years' War, tells you about the mission of the Hospitallers and the Templars, and also the lives of the inhabitants of Larzac during the Middle Ages.

4) Unraveling the mysteries of a technological challenge: the Millau Viaduct

The Millau Viaduct is a cable-stayed bridge, perched 270 meters high and 2,460 meters long. Its construction was a real technical challenge. The A75 motorway allows motorists to use it to avoid the city center and save precious time. To fully appreciate its size, we recommend visiting the village of Peyre. To better understand it, an exhibition is available at the motorway service station.

5) Take a road trip through Aveyron cheeses

Whether it's Bleu des Causses, Tommes de brebis, or Roquefort, Millau is fortunate to be at the heart of an exceptional cheese-making region. No need to travel far to indulge. A short loop between Rivière-sur-Tarn, Roquefort-sur-Soulzon, and La Cavalerie allows you to sample these cheeses, whether by car or even by bike!

6) Learn about oenology in the vineyards of Aveyron

While the wines of Aveyron are astonishing, with mineral notes and fruity flavors, bursting with sunshine, the " Côte de Millau " appellation has a very unusual particularity... The wines are aged in troglodyte cellars! The cooperative's winemakers will tell you all about the benefits of the cellars on their wines and will help you appreciate their unique aroma.

7) Admire Millau from the sky

Did climbing the Viaduct inspire dreams of grandeur? We'll take you higher and higher with a paragliding flight. You'll experience a thrilling experience. You'll enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the limestone plateaus and gorges. You'll have a blast in the sky...

8) Try canyoning in the Gorges du Tarn

Want to discover the wild beauty of the Gorges du Tarn while experiencing an exotic adventure? We have the perfect option: Canyoning! It's a comprehensive activity that encompasses a variety of sports: rock climbing, water hiking, and jumping. And if you're ready to go further, you can even add a bit of caving or via ferrata.

9) Hiking in the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park

Millau is one of the gateways to the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park. It is a magnificent natural site, ideal for nature outings and hiking. Just outside the town, not far from the Millau Viaduct, a hiking trail allows you to access the Creissels Waterfalls. It is a revitalizing and peaceful place, in the heart of a nature reserve.

10) Cycling on the Larzac Plateau

Millau is the starting point of the GTMC, heading towards the Mediterranean. But rest assured, the first stage will only take you as far as La Couvertoirade! Be careful, just because we're talking about a plateau doesn't mean it's not a sporty climb. The climb with a view of the Millau Viaduct won't spare your legs.

We hope this top 10 has made you want to visit Millau and stay in Tarn Aveyron.

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