AVEYRON - Between the gorges and the valleys of the Aveyron

Automatic translation

Map of Aveyron, territory between Gorges and Aveyron Valleys

To the north of Aveyron, the valleys open up to you, they meander, always accompanied by streams or rivers, which sometimes, as in Bozouls, dig incredible vertiginous chasms. Take the road to the causses, these arid, dry plateaus yet so rich in incredibly adapted, specific and exciting vegetation. Discover the richness of the Aveyron, criss -crossing the Lot, the Aveyron and their countless tributaries. By canoe, by kayak, you adopt a new point of view on the villages which are staged under your eyes.

In Aveyron, we eat well and in this territory between gorges and valleys, you will discover cheeses (from Laguiole, among others), invigorating and succulent specialities. The animals accompany you, the cows of Aubrac, the ewes and sheep which graze quietly. If you are looking for a change of scenery, the convenience of cities offering all their amenities, the calm of picturesque villages, a stone's throw from nature with its intoxicating musky scents, you are in the right place. Using our map, browse the villages above to make your choice: where will you go for your next vacation?

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Rodez

Rodez is the prefecture of the department, it is a large city with a dense history and it is also the former capital of the province of Rouergue. On the foothills of the central massif, it is a large agglomeration (for the region, 56,000 inhabitants in the community of agglo). It is crossed by the Aveyron, a place of fishing and sporting pleasures. Well served by transport, it benefits from a major train station, an airport and several main roads. Its historic setting is attractive because it is well preserved, it is pleasant to walk there to discover the remains of the old town, which has developed around it. The old center has several pedestrian streets, where you will like to stroll to enjoy the shops and the sweetness of life. The green heart of the city, the Public Garden, is a meeting place in the summer, a forecourt completes it, where festive and cultural events regularly take place.

It is estimated that the existence of the city dates back to antiquity, remains have been discovered, dating from the fifth century. Rodez was then occupied many times, and was also the seat of battles of the Hundred Years War. Long divided between counts and bishops, the town of Rodez saw its development slowed down by these rivalries for several centuries. Merchant city in the 18th century, it is marked by the construction of the Notre-Dame de Rodez Cathedral and its flat bell tower (particularly high: 87 meters). In the 16th and 20th centuries, Rodez continued to establish its status as the capital of Aveyron, developing its attractions. It is now up to the tourist to benefit from all the pleasures of Rodez, a city not to be missed, let us arouse your curiosity...

Visit Rodez, the unmissable:

• Heritage: Notre-Dame Cathedral and its flat bell tower, you can climb the 400 steps necessary to reach the summit, the view is breathtaking... The nearby Episcopal Palace dates from the 15th century. The Saint-Amand church, its decorated dome and its tapestries.
• Question museums: The Soulages Museum offers a remarkable collection of contemporary works of art, the Fenaille Museum is turned towards the History of Rouergue and the archaeological remains, as for the Denys-Puech Museum of Fine Arts, it is rich in sculptures, prints and paintings.
• Fancy sports? Rodez does not lack quality infrastructures, intended for the inhabitants but also of course for passing sportsmen. Skate park and esplanade for urban sports, mountain bike rental (route available at the tourist office). The Aquavallon aquatic center offers you a quality fun-aquatic moment, in nice buildings.
• A little hungry? Aveyronnaise specialties are of course part of it, in Rodez, with the many restaurants, but also the markets on Wednesday and Saturday mornings and shops selling local products.
• For a walk: after of course going to the Public Garden in the very center, go and see the Esplanade des Rutènes, a 3000m² space of beautiful architecture and very recent. The Square François Fabié is small but enjoys a beautiful view. The Place d'Armes is another pleasant esplanade. Very close to the city centre, the banks of Layoule are an ideal place for families, with a beautiful green space, picnic tables and shade in the heart of the hot season. To walk in a larger area of 120ha, go to the Combelle Leisure Park, a few kilometers away, where many equestrian activities take place.

We have compiled some Ruthenian anecdotes:

• The city is nicknamed "Le Piton", understand then that you must not forget the sneakers for the visit, because it climbs!
• Rodez is at the heart of an important scientific affair: in the 18th century, Jean-Baptiste Joseph Delambre and Pierre-François-André Méchain decide to embark on the definition of the length of the meter, a universal unit which represents (did you know ?) ten millionth of a quarter of the terrestrial meridian. It was then necessary to measure a straight line between Dunkirk and Barcelona (the famous 1/4 meridian), passing through Rodez which is exactly in the center! The definition of this unit which was supposed to be arbitrary, was not done without difficulty... Note that it is with the help of 2 rules of about 4 meters long, placed end to end, that they carried out this measurement (we're a long way from Google Maps, aren't we?), which turned out to be off by just 0.2 millimetres. The story of this adventure is summarized here, but it is fascinating and we invite you to discover it in the book "Measuring the World", by Ken Alder.
• To discover the city in an original way, try the Escape Game in augmented reality (fr), with the application, for ten euros.

Rodez and the Soulages museums

The Notre-Dame cathedral

Onet-le-Chateau

Over the past 50 years, Onet-le-Château has experienced a huge demographic boom! 10,000 additional inhabitants, for this municipality which is now the 4th most populated in the department. But what happened? It is the proximity of Rodez (itself in expansion), which explains that the local economic and commercial fabric has become denser (as well as the establishment of a factory generating many jobs). Having become a leisure and activity area, but also a residential area, Onet-le-Château is in a virtuous circle, which also affects the tourism sector.

The heritage of the town consists of the Saint-Joseph-l'Artisan church, but also and above all no less than 25 castles in the town (most private or in ruins, that said). The castle of Onet village is a historic monument in the heart of the town. It dates from the 13th century.

The tips and good plans of the Guide Tarn Aveyron in Onet-le-Château:

• If it rains, the children will be happy to spend an afternoon jumping and running around Pitchoo park.
  
• Fancy a good evening? The municipal theatre, La Baleine, offers performances regularly, consult the program online (fr).
  
• To have fun with friends, there is the Rouergue bowling a few kilometers away.
  

The Castle of the town of Onet-le-Château

belcastel

Very pleasant place for your holidays! Stone houses, slate roofs, fortified castle dominating the village, erected proudly. Along the banks of the Aveyron, Belcastel is one of the most beautiful villages in France, why? For its medieval heritage, its castle renovated to perfection, the 15th century bridge, with a stone arch spanning the Aveyron, which goes towards the Sainte-Madeleine church. Visit the castle from April to November, it contains exhibitions of paintings, sculptures and collections of medieval armour. You will learn all about an ancient essential profession, with a visit to the Maison de la forge, which also traces the importance of the trades of clog maker and fisherman, their tools and lifestyle.

The tips and good plans of the Guide Tarn Aveyron in Belcastel:

• Next to the village, do not miss the discovery of the Roc d'Anglars, the ruins of a 5th century fort which served to protect the region. The view there is breathtaking!
• Stroll through the village to see the bread oven, the characteristic little narrow and steep streets, the "lord's chairs", carved out of the rock. Wander the alleys and enjoy the pretty ground paved with rounded pebbles!
• Fishing enthusiast, you can practice your art here, by equipping yourself with a fishing license at the grocery store.
• The tourist information point in the village offers audio guides, for a truly comprehensive visit!
  

The perched village of Belcastel

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Villefranche-de-Rouergue

Sub-prefecture of Aveyron, Villefranche de Rouergue is the 3rd largest agglomeration in the department and can be proud of 2 classifications/labels: "City of Art and History" and "Grand Site Midi Pyrénées". It is a dense bastide, on the banks of the Aveyron. The name of the city is directly linked to its creation: Alphonse de Poitiers, brother of King Saint Louis, granted tax facilities to the first inhabitants to boost the emergence of his brand new city and ensure its success. It was at the end of the 18th century that Villefranche de Rouergue experienced a period of great economic and cultural prosperity, it was then the most populated city in Aveyron. It was not until the Revolution that it lost its status as capital (in favor of Rodez).

During your visit to this typical bastide town, you will discover, along the well parallel streets according to the checkerboard plan characteristic of the towns of this period: Place Notre-Dame, which is listed as a Historic Monument. It is surrounded by beautiful houses with covered stone arcades, you will see houses of beautiful architecture, with magnificent stone ornaments. The square has been renovated to express all its cachet. Not far away is the Notre-Dame collegiate church, the central building of the bastide with its imposing bell tower-porch. Also admire the former Palais de Justice, which is now the town hall, in a building from 1861.

The Old Chartreuse Saint-Sauveur and its two cloisters and the Chapelle des Pénitents Noirs de la Sainte-Croix are two of the many churches and religious buildings in the town. In Villefranche de Rouergue is the Urban-Cabrol municipal museum, which traces the history of the city and its surrounding region.

Above the Aveyron, is the consul's bridge, all in stone.

The tips and good plans of the Guide Tarn Aveyron in Villefranche-de-Rouergue:

• Take a walk in the Martyrs' Memorial Park, laid out in homage to the men who revolted during the Second World War. Villefranche de Rouergue was one of the first towns in France to rise up against the German occupation.
• To have a magnificent view of the city, with an orientation table to locate yourself, do not miss the road (on foot, it climbs but it's nice) to the Saint-Jean d'Aigremont Calvary.
• You're hot? Meet at the Aqualudis Nautical Center for a splash! Open all year round and every day thanks to indoor and outdoor pools!
• There are plenty of activities for children and the family in Villefranche de Rouergue: a laser tag at Cosmo Zone (which offers other activities), an outdoor base with lots of games and a park (climbing, disc golf !!)
• The Atelier Blanc contemporary art space offers workshops for children in season.
• Walk along the banks of the Aveyron with your family, on the heritage trail, it's prettyiiiiii.
• Treasure hunts, to discover the city in a fun way, are available at the tourist office.
• The farm and foie gras museum will delight lovers of good food and the curious...

Villefranche-de-Rouergue, a dynamic bastide

Notre-Dame collegiate church and its forecourt

Najac

Najac... Steep and crowned by its castle... Surrounded by greenery, like on a raft among the trees. Take on the castle and fortress of Najac, built by Alphonse de Poitiers (who founded Villefranche not far away). Terrible place of incarceration of the Templars, it remains well preserved, you can walk near its keep, along its narrow corridors and enjoy a magnificent panorama of the Aveyron valley at the top (after a hell of a climb!). The village of Najac offers a pleasant walk where you can admire the Saint-Jean-d'Evangelist church, the fortified entrance to the town via the Porte de la Pique, several beautiful houses (of the Governor, of the Sénéchal) and the pretty Fountain of the Consuls.

The tips and good plans of the Guide Tarn Aveyron in Najac:

• Mountain bikers will take the Bano de Biau circuit to enjoy a beautiful ride with magnificent views of the city and the countryside. There is also the Salvetat des Carts circuit.
  
• For sports enthusiasts, it continues: Caving, horseback riding, climbing, via ferrata, municipal swimming pool, stand up paddle, mini-golf, horse-drawn carriage rides (who said it's not sport??).
• In summer, there are plenty of artisan and designer shops. What to do shopping while promoting the work of people in the region!
• In summer, some evenings there are guided tours by torchlight in the city, it's superb, it's like being in another era...

Najac Castle

Najac on his mound

Villeneuve d'Aveyron

Another beautiful bastide! Installed on the causse of the same name, in the west of the department, Villeneuve enjoys a typical landscape. But by the way, what is the Causse? It is a calcareous, arid plateau with often meager and stunted vegetation . Water is scarce there, because of the constitution of the permeable rock, it is sometimes hidden at the bottom of deep valleys or in underground chasms. Yet millions of years ago, it was very present, as evidenced by the rounded pebbles and polished stones found everywhere.

Villeneuve was originally a salvage, that is to say a small town organized around its church. It was at the time of the Albigensian crusade that it was transformed into a bastide, which imposed its regular plan around the original nucleus. You will see the remains of the entrance gates to the bastide, La Porte Haute and the Tour de Savignac.

In Villeneuve, it is also the natural heritage that is interesting to discover: the cave of Foissac, offers 8km of galleries to visit a few kilometers from the village. From spring to autumn, Le Jardin de la Motte is a "Remarkable Garden" in the English style, a very pleasant place to take a plant break organized in the surrounding greenery. The Marais de Montaris offers an interesting ecosystem for lovers of fauna and flora. For a "Waouuuu" point of view, head about ten kilometers from the village, towards the "Saut de la Mounine" point of view, opposite the village of Montbrun.

Villeneuve Square Gate Tower

Peyrusse-le-Roc

A pretty little village, like an open history book, which offers itself to the traveler for a break of a few days, in complete peace of mind. Looking closely at the topography of the city, it is with good walking shoes that you will come to Peyrusse-le-Roc. It bears in its name, all the interpretation of its steep structure. It is the towers of the "Roc del Thaluc", which will make you first raise your eyes to the sky, vestiges of a rather astonishing medieval site (but how did they build it, in this place there, you will ask yourself?).

From the valley, you will have a great view! The nature of a great beauty around the city, sometimes lets emerge memories of the sumptuous period of Peyrusse, at the time when it was the chief town of the most important "baillage" of Rouergue (an administrative district of medieval times). Stroll through the city to see what lovers of old stones have come to save here for several years, with passion and care! The Keep, the New Gate, the church, bread oven, the Barbican, the majestic ruins of the old Notre-Dame-de-Laval church, the Synagogue, the Roman Bridge. A real sleeping gem, enjoy it before the secret of its beauty is fully revealed!

The towers of Roc Del Thaluc

Gate of the Barbican

Aubin

Visit Fort d'Aubin, on its rocky promontory in the Enne valley. It was the natural wealth that attracted the first inhabitants of Aubin, the Romans, who settled there for its coal, its iron and its springs (the thermal spring which is also linked to Decazeville, very close). The fort blends into the rock wall, the human constructions lean against each other and play with the relief, the peaks serve as lookouts... Abandoned, today it is a major vestige site which has regained its beauty thanks to to the work of local enthusiasts. Walk through the fort to see the Church of the Last Supper, which is an integral part of it. The square tower at the top of the piton was clearly an observation device and not a dwelling. Walk around town to see the half-timbered houses, the old bread oven and other beauties like the Calvary site.

Fort d'Aubin

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Decazeville

In the North West of Aveyron, Decazeville is a recent town, it was founded in the 19th century with an industrial vocation: the exploitation of underground mining and coal resources.

Why is coal a precious resource in general and especially in the 19th century? It was used to power thermal power stations, to produce electricity, essential and in full domestic expansion at that time. Its second vocation was purely industrial, since mixed with iron, also present in the local subsoil, it produced cast iron. It was in 1882 that the extraction of coal was perfected and structured, up to 800 workers living from this industrial activity. From 1947, mechanization is at its peak, shovels, bulldozers and high-capacity transport tools get to work, in addition to workers. The stop of the exploitation of this site, called "the discovery" was made at the beginning of the millennium. It is at the Industrial and Mining Heritage Museum of Decazeville that you will learn all about this fantastic industrial and human epic.

On the heritage side, you will discover in Decazeville, La Chapelle Saint-Roch, which welcomes pilgrims, since one of the tourist attractions of the city is its location on the GR65, the road to Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle. The magnificent Stations of the Cross by Gustave Moreau, made up of 14 canvases fixed at 3m high, is classified as a historical monument and it is the only one of its kind! In the church of Notre-Dame de Decazeville, there is a listed organ. Visit the Pierre Vetter Geology Museum, it is here that you will understand the landscapes and underground riches of Aveyron, fossils, rocks and plants discovered locally which attest to the existence of a tropical forest, on the old coal basin.

The tips and good plans of the Guide Tarn Aveyron in Decazeville:

• The town market takes place on Tuesday and Friday mornings.
• Gastronomy is a way of life in Decazeville, so be sure to try estofinade, a dish made from stockfish (dried fish, mostly from northern countries, brought to Decazeville by boatmen on the Lot), charcuterie, sausages, terrines... Aligot, mushrooms, poultry, cheeses too! Le Cabécou, Laguiole, Roquefort, the blue of the Causses... Discover our page on the gastronomy of the region.
• In the city, take advantage of a municipal swimming pool, open in summer.
• You can go fishing in the surroundings, on the ponds and on the banks of the Lot.
• Not far from there, in Cransac les Thermes, a spa and tourist town, there are plenty of things to do such as a walk in the Vaysse forest, the mountain that burns (for real, thanks to the thermal activity!! ), a spa park for walking, the site of Passelaygues for strolling in a pleasant green setting, the Jardins des Clots, the local museum "Les Mémoires de Cransac"... And of course, spa treatments!
  

Decazeville

Conches

Pronounce "conche", like the shell! A name that may come from the shape given by the confluence of the Dourdou and the Ouche... The village, which abounds in riches to discover, is built around its magnificent and famous Sainte-Foy abbey. Schist houses, roofs of Lauze, cobbled streets, all of this extracted locally thanks to the geological resources of the surroundings! Note the freestone houses, in slightly pink ocher sandstone, it is the local stone, made up of sand and stone that gives these harmonious hues. Conques has a rich pious history since the Middle Ages, it all starts with the arrival of the relics of Sainte Foy, followed by a whole series of events, which we invite you to discover at the Goldsmith's Treasure Museum. medieval... Conques is on the way of via Podiensis towards Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle, the activity of the pilgrims is economically and touristically important for the villagers... If today there are approximately 250 inhabitants in this small town which is one of the most beautiful villages in France, in the past, they were much more numerous in the 14th century, it was the monks who gave the city its letters of grace.

Today, Conques is a "must see", if you pass by, you will discover with emotion its treasure, the grandiose Sainte-Foy Abbey, the abbey has magnificent stained glass windows. Stroll through the steep streets, go through rue Charlemagne, cross the old bridge that spans the Dourdou. Take a tour of the European Center for Medieval Art and Civilization, a beautiful contemporary building where cultural events take place. The beautiful half-timbered houses are flowered in the summer, and the facades send back magical lights, at the end of the day...

The very beautiful village of Conques

Conques, Grand Site Midi Pyrénées, is the village, but it is also the surroundings that should not be missed! Just below the town is the Ségala de Conques, valleys dotted with schist houses, chestnut trees and a granite plateau. It is a perfect place for trail running, running in the middle of nature. Walks, beautiful viewpoints and the Lot below for nautical activities...

Just below there is Le Rougier de Marcillac with its favorable climate for orchards and viticulture. The red clay reflects an invigorating and warm light! Stroll by bike or by car in this wine- growing region with more than 200ha of terraces laid out for the vines, dotted with the beautiful residences of the notables of Rodez...

Still below, towards Onet-le-château, is Le Causse Comtal, a limestone plateau with magical landscapes, karst reliefs with stunted and dry bushes, gorges, canyons and magnificent waterfalls! Do not miss a visit to Muret-le-Château and Salles-la-Source, with its waterfall in the middle of the village! The sheep will be your traveling companions in this sparsely populated territory.

The tips and good plans of the Guide Tarn Aveyron in Conques:

• Discover a beautiful view of the valleys from "Le Bancarel", in Conques.
• Consult the tourist map (fr) of the Tourist Office, to find a base for a great relaxing and very enriching nature stay in this region of Conques Marcillac.
• Near Conques, the Lot Valley offers many sporting and nautical getaways: Canoeing, Stand up Paddle, Canyoning, Fishing...
• There are also many flying clubs, take the opportunity to take a first flight by plane or helicopter, a wonderful way to discover the region!

Goms and its wonders

Entraygues-sur-Truyere

On the banks of the Lot, at the confluence with the Truyère, here is a large, very pleasant town for a few days of vacation in Aveyron. Surrounded by water, you will discover the remains of the Middle Ages, old streets, beautiful half-timbered houses, towers (Escombels tower, Valiech tower, Iot tower, Al Cair tower)... castle, built in the 13th century, was fortified with ramparts and city defense towers, it was badly damaged by several conflicts and razed at the beginning of the 17th century. Rebuilt later, there are still vestiges of the initial construction. Pass by the pretty Gothic bridge over the Truyère river, as well as the Pont de Notre-Dame over the Lot. At a place called La Peyrade, you are at the confluence of the two rivers and enjoy a lovely view. Go for a walk also near the dam and the hydroelectric power station: there is a belvedere and explanatory panels on the role of this building on the Truyère, as well as the local fauna. A few kilometers from Entraygues-sur-Truyère is the village of Ginolhac which offers very beautiful views.

The tips and good plans of the Guide Tarn Aveyron in Entraygues-sur-Truyère:

• A fitness trail awaits you on the island in the Lot, with an arboretum of local species.
• Athletes? A fun activity to discover the area: the all-terrain scooter! You can even rent trailers for children, it's great to discover the region!
• At ASVOLT, you can rent canoes or kayaks, paddles and even super kayaks in the shape of a crocodile, for children aged 5 to 10.
• For children, a horse farm, a municipal swimming pool, creative artistic workshops and educational farms in and around the town. What to take care of!
  

Entraygues-sur-Truyere

Laguiole

In the heart of the central Aveyron plateau of Aubrac, discover Laguiole. Aubrac is a volcanic plateau, on the central massif, which straddles 3 departments: Aveyron, Lozère and Cantal. We visit it with happiness on the occasion of magnificent hikes, wearing cross-country skis, alpine skis or snowshoes in winter! Wide open spaces, superb colors from dawn to dusk, transhumance and small refuges... Cows of the same name (the cow... Aubrac), the forests of Aubrac are full of wild animals and are filled with many exceptional floral species ( there is even the sundew, a carnivorous plant). If all these adjectives haven't yet made you want to go on holiday in Aubrac right away, how about discovering Laguiole (pronounced "Laïole"), the land of the knife and the no less famous cheese?

In Laguiole, you can come on vacation all year round because there are always things to do and learn. Start by learning about the internationally recognized star: the Laguiole knife. It is the symbol of Aveyron, the pride of craftsmanship of the city and a vector of jobs and tourism without question. First visit the knife museum, which is attached to the Cutlery of Laguiole Honoré Durand. There are then several cutlery shops to visit, to appreciate the know-how of each craftsman and make your choice to bring back a small souvenir (sharp!!). And what are the knives made of? In a forge! Then visit the Forge de Laguiole, to learn all about the manufacture of this beautiful object.

Cheese lovers will be delighted to visit the Cooperative Fromagère Jeune Montagne, to have a passionate and tasty summary of all the cheese delicacies of the region. Film, a little history and knowledge then, tasting of course! A store even allows you to take these delicacies home.

We talk a lot about the city's products, but Laguiole is also an exceptional heritage. Starting with the sculpture of the bull on the Place du Foirail, which pays homage to the region's cattle and the Aubrac breed of cows. Go to the church of the fort, on the esplanade, to enjoy a 360 degree panorama over the valley. You will also see the church of Saint Matthew, the old presbytery and the beautiful cross of the old seminary, the chapel which houses a fresco. The main street in the old town is rue Bombecul. Below the village flows the Selves spanned by its pretty stone bridge, the Pont Pigasse.

The tips and good plans of the Guide Tarn Aveyron in Laguiole:

• If you like animals and clothes, visit the Doux Mohair Farm to discover a breeding of Angora goats, they are super cute!
• Gourmets will not fail to eat at the starred restaurant Le Suquet, by Sébastien Bras, where you eat in the company of the forests of Aubrac, which are revealed behind large bay windows.
• Set off for a 4 km walk to see the pretty Oules waterfall, following a marked trail.
• From May to October, you can visit the Albert Calmels Center which will tell you about the history, heritage and nature of Aubrac, in the heart of a magnificent stone building.
• Put on your trainers, take a pair of binoculars and a notebook and head for the Ecological and Botanical Observation Trail, 10 km from Laguiole, just follow the signs.
• Next to La Maison de l'Aubrac is a lovely botanical garden.
  
• 5 km south of Laguiole is the Château du Bousquet, which dates from the 14th century, it is a museum of ancient art from the Middle Ages. Its architecture is magnificent!! It can be visited all year round.
• To the west of Laguiole is the village of Soulages-Bonneval, where you can visit a very surprising place: Le Grenier de Capou, with a collection of more than 1200 m² of objects of all kinds, a real cave of Ali Baba !
• In Cayrol, not far from Laguiole, go through the door of the Musée des Ardoisières, to learn all about slate extraction.
  

The famous Laguiole knives

Cheeses, another Laguiole specialty

The town of Laguiole

St-Chely-d'Aubrac

A little south of Laguiole, at an altitude of 800 m, is Saint-Chély. It is a stopover on the Via Podiensis towards Santiago de Compostela. It is a central place to stay for a few days to discover the treasures of Aubrac. Take a walk in the village, go and see the tourist office which has set up in the old prisons, the small alleys take you to a washhouse, a Romanesque church surrounded by old houses of beautiful architecture, continue the small streets to the Pont des Pellerins, listed as a World Heritage Site. Near the water, admire the Moulin du Fabbras (private).

The cute village of Saint-Chely d'Aubrac

estaing

Here you are in one of the most beautiful villages in France. At the edge of the Lot and its confluence the Coussane, Estaing is also on the Via Podiensis. It is a qualitative Jacquaire stopover , where the heritage is preserved. Admire the grandiose Château d'Estaing (from the family of the same name), set on the hill and overlooking the village, it can be visited from May to October, on a free or guided tour. Estaing is a picturesque medieval town, approached by crossing the Lot by a 16th century Gothic bridge. Head to the Town Hall and the Tourist Office, which sit in a listed building. The religious heritage consists of the Saint-Fleuret church from the 15th century, which houses relics of patron saints, the church of Vinnac dates from the 12th century, stop also to see the statue of the Virgin and Child on the bridge next to the Quai Admiral-d'Estaing.

In Estaing, you are also close to the vineyards of the Aubrac plateaux, there is one of the smallest vineyards in France, which owes its existence to the mild local climate. Come and see the Maison de la Vigne, du Vin et des Paysages d'Estaing (in Coubissou), to taste this picturesque wine. In summer, the village is buzzing and comes alive with multiple festivals, such as the Medieval ones, the Saint-Fleuret festival... Discover our section on festivals and events.

The tips and good plans of the Guide Tarn Aveyron in Estaing:

• Several short hiking trails are available in the village, parallel to the Via Podiensis.
• Municipal swimming pool with a very beautiful view of the castle, in summer.
• If you are a gourmet lover, contact the apiary of Manon Dalac in Estaing.
• The pretty ones will enjoy visiting the workshop and the pleated clothing boutique of the Atelier du Requista.
• In Coubissou, not far from there, is the Château de Cabrespines, it can be admired and visited by appointment with the owners. In this village there is also a goat farm, with good products to discover, a stoneware pottery workshop and a snail farm.
  

The Castle of the town of Estaing, on the banks of the Lot

Espalion

Just south-east of Estaing, on the Via Podiensis, is Espalion. Guarded by the ruins of the fortified castle of Calmont d'Olt, the town is on the banks of the Lot. The castle had a certain military vocation, only the ruins remain, are all still impressive! It is being renovated and research is being done on the site, to date it and extract all the mysteries. We will always see the Dungeon, part of the outer enclosure, a tower. It is on the Route des Seigneurs du Rouergue and its enhancement is accentuated by the reconstruction of war machines that will make children scream with joy! A course of 12 events is specially available for them, with the key, a knight's diploma. Shows are organized, with throwing of projectiles and various animations.

Returning to Espalion, on the banks of the Lot, you will see quite picturesque houses, with their feet in the water and half- timbered. These are old tanneries. The inhabitants had set up their workshops on the floors and could go down to the edge of the river to tan the skins directly in the Lot on stones. Pass by the Old Bridge in magnificent pink sandstone (to be observed at sunset...), with its 4 arches. In Espalion, discover the magnificent Chapelle de Perse, all in pink and white sandstone, with a slate roof. The portal and its tympanum are well preserved. Rue du Plô, discover the chapel of the brotherhood of White Penitents and its religious museum. The old church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste houses the Musée du Scaphandre and the Museum of Art and Popular Traditions Joseph Vaylet, both of which were established in 1977. Why the scaphandre? Because it was two engineers from Aveyron who invented it! There is also the parish church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, created to replace the old one which had become too small in the 19th century. In the city was an Ursuline convent, of which only the portal and part of the facade remain.

In Espalion, the magnificent building of the Vieux-Palais stands proudly, it is a former courthouse on the edge of the lot. It dates from 1572, it is a building for the defense of the city. It is located near the Old Bridge. All that remains of the city's fortifications is the Tour Michou. In the buildings of the old prison, is the Museum of Rouergue manners and customs where you will learn more about Rouergue leather.

The tips and good plans of the Guide Tarn Aveyron in Espalion:

• A few kilometers from Espalion is the Abbaye de Bonneval, where the Cistercian nuns produce a renowned and delicious gastronomic chocolate : Bonneval chocolate. It can be found in delicatessens in the region, but also at the Abbey store. It also offers accommodation for pilgrims, a monastic hotel.
• Southeast of Espalion is the lava flow of Roquelaure, in Lassouts. A large stone field, which will reveal its mysteries to you thanks to educational panels.
• In Lassouts, also go and see the Château and the village which is very pretty.

Espalion and its parish church

Bozouls

If one day you are told about a village in a picturesque location, it is surely true, but it is nothing compared to Bozouls. This is a place that makes you say "waouuuuu". In Bozouls, there is a hole and that is saying something! It is a natural curiosity 400m in diameter and 100m deep. In the shape of a horseshoe, the Dourdou River has patiently dug an abyss and the village expresses itself all around. It is the friable constitution of the limestone and the erosive action of the water, which gives this horseshoe (or question mark) shape to the meander.

In Bozouls, part of the village and the Sainte Fauste church protrude on a rocky promontory. The rest is suspended, all around, like spectators in a theatre, it's magnificent! Obviously, the Bozouls hole alone is a definite tourist attraction, but in addition, you will discover there: the church of Aboul, the church of Saint Pie X and its high bow, and magnificent towers in the village, on either side of the Alrance ravine. These are probably old observation buildings. On the rocky outcrop that juts out towards the meander and the hole, is the Château district.

The tips and good plans of the Guide Tarn Aveyron in Bozouls:

• Take a walk in the pretty garden which is near the Château de Veyssettes (free).
• Go to the edge of the terrace, on the Place de la Mairie to appreciate the beauty and immensity of the Bozouls hole. Hard to imagine that it is the Dourdou, this charming little river flowing peacefully, which dug this gigantic hole? And yet!
• At the heart of the canyon is the Saut du Beggar (he would have thrown himself backwards into the void...) and the Gourg d'Enfer. There are many legends about this hole, among other things, that it was dug by the Devil in one night.
• Visit the Terra Memoria Museum, modern, interactive and scientific! It is playful, it will appeal to children and has a great view of the Hole.
• At La Galerie, in the center of the town, local artistic and cultural exhibitions are often held.
  
• You know... The best way to visit Bozouls, of course, is by taking to the skies! If there is one place in the area where you have to get laid, it's in Bozouls! Initiation flights in ULM are available through the Aveyronnais Group of Ultra-Light Motorized Pilots.
• You can also take off in a hot air balloon to see the Hole from up there.
• To know everything about Bozouls and the canyon, a tourist train shows you everything in 45 minutes!
• A few places away are the archaeological site of the Dolmen of Fontaine-aux-Chiens.

The Hole of Bozouls

St-Geniez-d'Olt

Between Millau and Laguiole, Saint-Geniez-d'Olt, well located, is the place of many holiday pleasures: sport, gastronomy, open air and beautiful landscapes. Let's go?

Saint-Geniez-d'Olt is crossed by the Lot, you will discover the Convent of the Penitents, where the Town Hall is located. The Saint-Geniez church and its 6 small chapels, the Hospice de Saint-Geniez, the Hôtel du Ravieux, de Ricard... All these buildings are classified as historical monuments. The iconic cute statue of the Marmots, which is located on the old Bridge, represents two children with a marmot. Legend has it that they were saved by the marmot, which they had tamed and which took them into the mountains one stormy evening when the Lot overflowed, carrying away the houses of the village and their father.

In Saint-Geniez, there are 4 times more inhabitants in summer, it is still a quiet little holiday town, don't worry. With the Causses on one side and the Aubrac plateau on the other, there is enough to see different landscapes every day and take many walks.

The tips and good plans of the Guide Tarn Aveyron in St Geniez d'Olt:

• The visit of the city is a joy, because the municipality has affixed plaques to give explanations to tourists! You will know everything at a glance!
• It is raining? Go see Gigi and her spit cake making workshop! It is a cake that is cooked on a spit using a kind of conical mould, which lets the dough come out thanks to holes all around its perimeter, the dough cooks by turning and comes out in small spikes, it's very pretty... and good! Gigi is in Saint-Martin de Lenne, right next door.
• In Sainte-Eulalie-d'Olt, you can also go see Yann and his glassblower workshop, it's always impressive...
• If the weather is nice, go to the Parc des Ifers to go tree climbing or rent canoes for a family descent!
• Lovers of beer and Aubrac beverages will be delighted to go to the Brasserie d'Olt, where the owner, an expert on the subject, will make you want to try all these little malted potions. without forgetting products for children, such as lemonade and other artisanal colas!
  

The brats!

Laissac-Severac the Church

Welcome to the landscapes of Laissagais, on the Causse de Séverac. Dotted with dolmens, dry and leveled vegetation, small picturesque villages. In Laissac, cattle are in the spotlight, since markets and fairs are organized there... Every Tuesday morning on the Place du Foirail, come and see the 2nd market for cattle and sheep in France (the 1st in the south), shop and enjoy the atmosphere. Strolling through the village, you will see medieval remains: The Rességuier Tower from the 16th century, the church (more recent) and its Virgin and Child. Push your short walk towards the mill-castle of Maquefabes.

Discover the small villages around:

• Bertholene and its Paleolithic remains, take a walk on the old railway line, on foot or by mountain bike. Visit Bertholène castle, stroll through the small village to see its vernacular heritage.
• In Cruejouls, come and admire the feudal castle and its 4 large towers.
• Make a detour via Gaillac d'Aveyron, to see lots of dolmens and feel the mystical atmosphere that emanates from them...
• Stroll through the old weaving village, Vimenet. Guided tours take place in summer, with the association "water and stone".

The tips and good plans of the Guide Tarn Aveyron in Laissac:

• Take a walk in the Palangues forest, it is a ZNIEFF where victorial garlic and different kinds of lilies grow. A pleasant place for family outings and for, it seems, finding mushrooms in autumn... but that stays between us, ok? (be careful never to go to private property for picking!)
• Guided tours of the cattle market are organized during school holidays and in summer, call the tourist office before your visit.
• You love mountain biking.