Aveyron

Aveyron is one of the largest départements in France, and its central location to the north of the Occitanie region, means it is slightly off the tourist trail, although there is no shortage of attractions. The Gorges du Tarn and the Aubrac Plateau certainly feature among its most beautiful attractions, but this region has many other surprises in store for you.

Why not start with a visit to Rodez, the département's administrative centre? Its unmissable Soulages museum will delight contemporary art enthusiasts. Do not miss Notre-Dame Cathedral and the historic centre, featuring medieval streets lined with pink sandstone buildings. Millau also has a beautiful heritage that dates back to the Middle Ages, as demonstrated by its Pont Vieux and its tower, without forgetting, of course, the Millau viaduct that is situated just a few miles away.

But natural beauty is where Aveyron really excels, in the many activities it has to offer, from canoeing or kayaking in the gorges of the River Tarn, hiking across the Aubrac Plateau, fishing in the gorges of the Jonte, mountain biking in the Causses, and even slackline (tightrope walking) between the two cliffs for the more adventurous! The département also has charming villages to explore, such as Laguiole (home to the world-famous knife manufacturer), Villefranche-de-Rouergue and Conques. Food lovers will not want to miss out on a visit to the Cellars of Roquefort before tasting the famous cheese with a nice glass of Marcillac (to be consumed in moderation!).

Aveyron could not be easier to get to, with Rodez railway stations having good links with most of France's major cities, but you will have to change in Toulouse, Bordeaux or Montpellier. Air is a most practical or fastest option, with flights to Rodez-Aveyron from Paris and the UK, Ireland and Belgium. Once you’ve arrived, you can take advantage of the local TER Midi-Pyrénées network (train and coach). Aveyron has incredible natural scenery that is best discovered on foot, by bike or on water.

The car is another solution and you can easily drive and explore the surrounding area by hiring a car.