Would you like to discover hiking in Aveyron? First and foremost, discover our selection of the department’s most beautiful itineraries. Get your boots on!
The département of Aveyron lies south of the Massif Central, in the heart of the warm Occitanie region. Dotted with valleys, rocky plateaux and lush green plains, this département has a long tradition of nature conservation. Its topography is highly conducive to hiking, offering enthusiasts the chance to observe fabulous natural landscapes from a variety of altitudes. While the department itself was created in the 18th century, its territorial history is rich. Indeed, it dates back to the famous Templar and Hospitaller orders, which left behind some magnificent buildings that are still perfectly preserved. A number of hikes in Aveyron offer the chance to discover their archaeological and architectural treasures. Get your gear ready, Aveyron has a lot to offer!
A quick safety reminder
Not all hikes in Aveyron are equal in terms of difficulty, so be careful and plan ahead. There are a few things you should do automatically:
- Take at least one liter of water per person.
- Always check the weather forecast before embarking on a hike.
- Make sure you’re properly equipped: suitable walking shoes or sneakers, cap, sunglasses and sunscreen, and possibly a jacket depending on the forecast.
- Also, pack a small medical kit containing the bare essentials (bandages and disinfectant).
1. The GR® 65
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Agami Photo Agency
Duration: 6 days (stages 7 to 12)
Distance: 102 km
Difference in altitude: variable, depending on hike
Difficulty: Medium
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The GR® 65 crosses the Aveyron département over 102 kilometers on stages 7 to 12, offering pilgrims access to Santiago de Compostela. However, it’s also possible to take the route without actually completing it, and just enjoy hiking in Aveyron. The sections of the famous Via Podiensis (or Voie du Puy, the route to Santiago de Compostela) that pass through Aveyron offer you the chance to discover many places, some of them recognized by UNESCO.
You’ll see Saint-Chély d’Aubrac, Espalion, Estaing and even Conques. Set out to conquer Aveyron’s heritage, founded by the Templars, and its territory, which those same Templars trod a few centuries ago. Over 6 days, with an average of 20.5 kilometers per day, ride through Aveyron from east to west, and enjoy the many magnificent landscapes on offer. Please note that stages can be lengthened or shortened to suit your level of fitness.
2. Le Roc des Agudes
Photo Credit: Instagram – slyrollin
Duration: 5 hours
Distance: 12.7 km
Difference in altitude: 637 metres
Difficulty: Medium
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Roc des Agudes stands in the heart of the Tarn valley, not far from its confluence with the Jonte. Among the hikes in Aveyron, this one takes you along the Causse de Sauveterre to reach the rock.
On your way, green landscapes, the sky stretching as far as the eye can see, and the little abandoned village of Eglazine, on the mountainside. At the end of the path, the Roc des Agudes, which, in addition to being unique, offers a breathtaking view of the valley below. Thanks to the plateau at its foot, you can easily stop to take a long break and enjoy the view, or eat your lunch. It’s a great way to discover the Aveyron region.
3. The Upper Dourbie Valley
Photo credit: Shutterstock – ludo
Duration: 6 hours
Distance: 15.3 km
Difference in altitude: 627 metres
Difficulty: Medium
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The Dourbie valley is a pleasant natural area, dotted with charming villages such as Saint-Jean-du-Bruel. From here, set off to conquer the various slopes of the Dourbie, in which you can even take a dip halfway along the way. Subject to clear skies and sufficient warmth, otherwise you might not enjoy the experience!
This hike in Aveyron can be enjoyed even in midsummer: the forest along which you walk will protect you from the sun without spoiling your view of the Dourbie valley.
4. Millau Viaduct
Photo credit: Shutterstock – valeriiaarnaud
Duration: 6 hours
Distance: 15.9 km
Difference in altitude: 373 metres
Difficulty: Medium
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It might seem strange to take a hike to look at a motorway structure. But the Millau Viaduct is much more than that. In fact, it blends in perfectly with its surroundings, thanks to its slender, sailboat-like appearance. Spanning more than 2 kilometers over the Tarn River, Europe’s longest viaduct is today the Aveyron equivalent of the Eiffel Tower.
This is one of the Aveyron hikes where you can see it from every angle. Along the way, you can admire the Tarn valley, the Larzac plateau and the town of Millau. The hike itself is not very complicated, just intense. Fortunately, you’ll be able to take a breather and admire the magnificent Millau Viaduct.
5. The Belcastel loop
Photo credit: Shutterstock – leoks
Duration: 2 hours
Distance: 6.6 km
Difference in altitude: 253 metres
Difficulty: Easy
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Located in the Aveyron region of France, Belcastel is one of France’ s heritage villages. To discover it in a new way, rather than opting for a more traditional tour of its narrow streets, go around it! Admire it from the surrounding mountains, camouflaged in the dense greenery of the forests. On this loop, you’ll see Belcastel, its castle, its old bridge and the roofs of the charming houses that make up the village.
Hiking in Aveyron also means discovering its heritage, not just its natural landscapes! So why not make the most of it? On your way, you’ll pass by the Fort du Roc d’Anglars and visit the Grotte du Lourdou and its Virgin Mary. A great schedule for such an easy hike!
6. The GR® de Pays: the grand tour of Monts et Lac du Lévézou
Photo Credit: Facebook – Office de tourisme de Pareloup Lévézou Aveyron-France
Duration: 10 days
Distance: first loop 104 km, second loop 110 km
Difference in altitude: varies according to tour
Difficulty: moderate
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As its name suggests, the Grand Tour les Monts et Lac du Lévézou is one of the Aveyron hikes considered exceptional. In fact, it takes at least 10 days to complete. The route is not particularly difficult, although it is a medium-mountain itinerary.
At an average of 21 kilometers per day, this long trail will take you through surprising landscapes, in a completely natural, idyllic and wild environment. History buffs won’t be left out either, as you’ll come across castles and churches in perfect condition. So make sure you stop off here for a while, to regain your strength for the rest of the hike.
7. The cornices of the Tarn
Photo Credit: Flickr – Joachim Maury
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
Distance: 15.1 km
Difference in altitude: 697 metres
Difficulty: Medium
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Challenge yourself by admiring the Gorges du Tarn from its ledges. This hike in Aveyron, starting from Liaucous, is tougher than some, as the paths are sometimes steep and climb almost all the way. Before finally descending all at once. However, despite the difficulty of the gradient, the view is well worth the effort!
Discover lush greenery, rugged mountains and incredible, untamed natural diversity.
8. The Heritage Trail in Villefranche-de-Rouergue
Photo credit: Tourisme Aveyron
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Distance: 5.3 km
Difference in altitude: 107 metres
Difficulty: Easy
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Villefranche-de-Rouergue is home to the Sentier des Patrimoine, a pleasant 5-kilometer walk along the magnificent banks of the Aveyron. But there’s more to it than that. In fact, you’ll be following a trail as well as a fitness trail. Whatever your pace, come and admire the diversity of the local flora and fauna, as well as the Aveyron way of life.
Perhaps you’ll come across a few oars or canoes plying the river. Ideal for children and for a relaxing break!
Now you know the best walks in Aveyron! Onwards and upwards!