Natural sites
in Aveyron
unusual natural sites
The Aveyron has a great diversity of scenery and crossing the département, you are quickly struck by the changing landscape: from the arid land of the Causses du Larzac to the high volcanic plateau of the Aubrac passing via the Rougier de Camarès, you quickly realise that it is a land conducive to impressive natural sites that are unusual at times.
Don’t hesitate! Walk around the “Trou” de Bozouls (Bozouls “hole”), make out the shapes of the rocks at the chaos of Montpellier le Vieux, descend the meanders of the prehistoric caves at Foissac, go for a romantic walk on the Presqu'île de Laussac (Laussac peninsula).
The omnipresent flora
In the south, on the arid land of the Causse du Larzac bathed in the Mediterranean and oceanic climates, both mountain and Mediterranean garrigue scenery are found. Here you will see the symbol of the causse, angels' hair. Will you be able to identify the 45 species of orchids (there are 150 found in France) including the rare Aveyron Ophrys that can be admired but not picked? And what about the magnificent cardabelle golden thistle ?
In the north, on the Aubrac plateaux, the fields wake in spring after having spent several months under snow. Yellow carpets of crocuses and daffodils emerge. Then, the gentians appear that are much appreciated at aperitif time and the Aubrac tea that flavours infusions and liqueurs. Botanical lovers will be won over by more than 2000 plant species to see !
Wild Fauna
A multitude of wild species evolve in complete freedom in the immense woods. Go collecting mushrooms or blackberries and you will see the footprints of foxes, wild boar, deer and hares. Raise your head and perhaps you will glimpse the tail of a red squirrel. What is the impressive bellowing you can hear in early autumn? It’s the deer rutting.
Barn owls, tawny owls, falcons, buzzards or Griffon vultures are just some of the species of birds of prey amongst the 250 that are now found today in the Aveyron.
Along the river banks, herons live alongside coypus. Apparently, even beavers have reappeared on the banks of the river Tarn.
140 results
DOLMENS TOUR
St-Affrique
Indulge yourself a sample of the great dolmens variety in southern-Aveyron, thanks to our discovery driving tour starting from Saint-Affrique (35 km).
Berges du Dourdou à Conques
Conques-en-Rouergue
Chapelle et Chateau de Gozon
Les Costes-Gozon
La Coulée de Lave
Lassouts
A must not to be missed the 'lava stream of Roquelaure'. Incorrectly named, because this actually is a mass of fallen basalt rocks stretched over the hills of Roquelaure, above the village of Saint- Côme-d'Olt and the Lot Valley.
Les Martinets du Lézert à La Bastide l'Evêque
Le Bas-Ségala
In the heart of the Aveyron gorges and the Lezert valley lies a historical savoir-faire… During your visit of la Bastide l'Evêque, come and discover the copper foundries. Meet passionate people that brought back to life "martinaïres" !
Tournemire Circus and Plesiosaur house
Tournemire
Come and step back in time to the Jurassic period! The Tournemire amphitheatre situated between the Roquefort caves and the Templar and Hospitaller sites is an outstanding geological area.
Le pont du Cayla à La Bastide l'Evêque
Le Bas-Ségala
What a picturesque getaway in the Aveyron gorges ! This ancient bridge is appreciated by the hikers who follow the GR62 B marked trail for its greenery background and preserved environment.
Cascade de Salles-la-Source
Salles-la-Source
Le Cirque de St-Paul des Fonts
St-Jean-d'Alcas-et-St-Paul-des-Fonts
CHATEAU ET JARDIN DE BOURNAZEL
Bournazel
Private Renaissance château listed as a Historic Monument. One of southern France's most significant buildings with its innovative architecture and remarkable carved decor. Its gardens are classified 'Jardin Remarquables'.
Oreilles en balade à Peyrusse-le-Roc
Peyrusse-le-Roc
With a helmet on your ears, discover the Aveyron. Let yourself be guided by the stories told and lived by the inhabitants of the village. An activity for everyone or family. Adult version and child version, free.
Table d'interprétation de Peyralbe
Vabres-l'Abbaye
Enjoy an exceptional panorama with a 360° view while breathing the pure air of the Aveyron countryside.
Serre de Cougouille et sa table d'orientation
Ste-Eulalie-de-Cernon
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