The must-sees of Aveyron: the sites that make the heart of the department beat
The must-sees of Aveyron: the sites that make the heart of the department beat
5,1 km - Millau
Not to be missed
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English
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The Millau Viaduct, a must-see site in Aveyron
If you're traveling on the A75 motorway between Clermont-Ferrand and Béziers, you'll have the chance to cross the famous Millau Viaduct : an impressive feat of engineering, not to be missed! Take the time to stop at the Millau Viaduct rest area and admire this giant of concrete and steel. Accessible from both directions, this rest area is an iconic landmark of the Aveyron region. Another unique feature of this rest area is that it's accessible from outside the motorway, making it a tourist attraction in its own right.
The Millau Viaduct, a technical and human feat
Incredible but true: the construction of this bridge took only 3 years ! A remarkable feat considering the technical challenges of designing this multi-cable-stayed structure, perfectly integrated into the landscape of the Grands Causses. At the helm of this project were two men working in perfect harmony: the French engineer Michel Virlogeux and the English architect Lord Norman Foster. But the adventure wouldn't have been the same without the 3,000 workers who contributed, directly or indirectly, to the success of this extraordinary project. The foundation stone was laid on December 14, 2001, and the bridge was inaugurated on December 14, 2004. That's right: 3 years to the day ! In 2024, the Millau Viaduct celebrated its 20th anniversary. To mark the occasion, 20 days of festivities were organized. Between September 3rd and 22nd, residents of Millau, the Aveyron region, and visitors from around the world turned out in force, filling Millau with their infectious enthusiasm. The highlight of these festivities was the 7th edition of the Eiffage Millau Viaduct Race in Aveyron, where runners took to the viaduct. Held every two years, this event allows thousands of enthusiasts to run between sky and earth.
The Millau Viaduct rest area, a rest area that doesn't look like one
Take a break at the Millau Viaduct rest area! Children can let off steam on the outdoor play area, and your four-legged friends can enjoy the agility course. In the old Causses farmhouse, step inside the Viaduct Expo. This free, open-access museum space is open year-round. The exhibits are incredible, featuring testimonials, anecdotes, and previously unseen images about the bridge's construction: a true immersion into the conditions of its creation. Guided tours are also available, and the gift shop offers a wide selection of souvenirs. Don't forget to climb to the viewpoint … and there: open your eyes and admire the Millau Viaduct ! With its 7 pylons and 154 cables, it almost resembles a sailboat floating above the valley. At the Gourmet Area, enjoy galettes filled with local products or take home some sweet treats. A tourist attraction and a unique site, the Millau Viaduct is an unmissable place to discover in Aveyron.
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