Via Podiensis, a route to Santiago de Compostela that passes through Tarn-Aveyron

There are 4 Caminos de Santiago starting from Paris, Vézelay, Le Puy and Arles that allow you to make a pilgrimage to reach Spain. Among them, the 750 km long Via Podiensis is a GR65 that crosses the Tarn-Aveyron, starting from Puy-en-Velay to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port on the Spanish border. Discover the region on foot on the Santiago de Compostela trails, we present the main stages of this famous route.

Via Podiensis, a route to Santiago de Compostela that crosses Aveyron

The Aveyron circuit is quite simple to do if you are athletic enough, since it extends over approximately 100 km between Saint-Chély-d'Aubrac and Livinhac-le-Haut. The landscapes are magnificent with the immense Aubrac plateau which marks the starting point of this pilgrimage route which passes through several cities to visit.

Saint-Chely-d'Aubrac

This charming village nestled in the heart of a deep valley dug by the Boralde is lovely to discover with its bourgeois and old houses, witnesses of the Middle Ages and the ^20th century. The flagship monument remains the pilgrims' bridge, used by walkers from all over the world on the Via Podiensis. If the weather permits, extend your route to the plateau to admire the breathtaking view of nature and pastures.

Saint-Côme d'Olt 25km further

Take a break in one of the most beautiful villages in France which preserves its medieval architecture with its 3 fortified entrance gates. Seen from above, the village gives the impression of being circular with houses surrounding the church in the center of the city. During your pilgrimage, take the time to discover the Chapelle des Pénitents, a former hospice for pilgrims which has become an exhibition hall.

Espalion between Saint-Côme d'Olt and Estaing

If your feet aren't too tired, you can continue your pilgrimage to Espalion, about 1 hour's walk from Saint-Côme d'Olt. You'll discover this charming village as you stroll through the old town , past the old houses, the Vieux Palais and the Pont Vieux, while the Lot flows between the 2 bridges. Old tanneries, churches and the chapel of the white penitents are just some of the many sites to visit, not forgetting the Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires and the Musée des Moeurs et coutumes du Rouergue, housed in the remains of a prison.

Estaing 20 km further

Here is the ^2nd most beautiful village in France located on the Via Podiensis in Aveyron, with its magnificent castle open to visitors, classified as a historical monument. Nestled in a green setting, it can be discovered on foot, on horseback, by canoe or by bike, without forgetting to make a tasting stop in the vineyard which is one of the smallest AOC in France.

Golinhac 16 km further

This small village is like a haven of peace, calm and relaxing with a magnificent surrounding nature. The main attraction of Golinhac is the granite chaos located on the plateau, resulting from a cooled and solidified magma which ended up crystallizing. Over the years, erosion has released the granite, offering an atypical landscape to this part of Aveyron.

Conques 21 km further

This is the ^3rd most beautiful village in France located on the Via Podiensis in Aveyron, a destination rich in historical heritage. The magnificent abbey church of Sainte-Foy can be visited all year round, revealing the reliquary statue of Sainte-Foy which is its true treasure. If your pilgrimage allows you to stay a few days in Conques, do not miss the night visit of the stands, an unforgettable experience to live in Aveyron.

Livinhac-le-Haut 24 km further

Nicknamed "the gardens of Aveyron", this pretty village offers magnificent landscapes between its market gardens and horticultural areas. Labeled "Halte Compostelle", it is appreciated by hikers and pilgrims who have many services such as toilets, picnic areas and suitable accommodation.

The crossing of Aveyron by the Via Podiensis is over. We'll see you in Tarn after a trip to Lot during your pilgrimage.

Via Podiensis, a short walking route in Tarn-et-Garonne

This part of the Way of Saint James is faster since it extends over less than 50 km before reaching the Gers, passing through 3 important towns in the region.

Lauzerte

This medieval city, classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France, is the emblematic heart of Grand Occitanie. Created in the ^17th century, the bastide of Lauzerte astonishes with its circular construction with the Place des Cornières in its center. Discover its stone and half-timbered houses as well as its pilgrims' garden, laid out like a giant game of goose with squares and numbered signs. Lauzerte is also labeled "Halte Compostelle".

Moissac 28 km further

This pretty village is known for the Abbey of Saint-Pierre de Moissac, a building listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This exceptional architectural ensemble reveals an incredible Romanesque art and is unique in the world for its quality of design and its state of conservation. Take the time to wander the streets of the village to discover Art Deco style buildings, an atypical decor that gives very beautiful photos.

Auvillar 20 km further

Here you are again in one of the most beautiful villages in France, made up of half-timbered houses and listed monuments: Auvillar. During your break on the way to Santiago de Compostela, take the time to admire the Saint-Pierre church, the Halle aux grains or the Tour de l'Horloge, before visiting the Musée du Vieil Auvillar which reveals magnificent earthenware, goose feathers and primitive clock mechanisms.

You now know all the secrets of the Via Podiensis that crosses the Tarn-Aveyron, and each of the villages that serve as essential stops on the paths to Santiago de Compostela. Put on your backpack, lace up your shoes and don't forget your credencial (pilgrim's notebook): on the road to Compostela!

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