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.
123 results
Maison du bois
Taussac
The maison du bois (wooden house) is an extension of the discovery trail on the theme of wood and the forest.
Maison de l'Aubrac
St-Chély-d'Aubrac
Discover the Aubrac in all its dimensions: its nature, its history, its culture, its economy, its gastronomy, its traditions... through the seasons.
Site de Mirabel, point de vue
Rignac
Located in the municipality of Rignac, the hamlet of Mirabel dominates the valley of Aveyron, crossed by the famous GR62B hiking trail, the ethno-botanical trail in Ségala "Al travers" and the trail of the Resistance.
Le cheval du Roi
Lescure-Jaoul
Sentier de découverte de la Gourgue de Maroule
Argences-en-Aubrac
5 km circuit in Ste Geneviève sur Argence, for the exploration of the fauna and flora.
Tour ornithologique
Lescure-Jaoul
On the Puech de Flauzins, this tower provides spectacular views and the opportunity to observe sedentary and migratory species.
Table d'interprétation de Novis
Sévérac-d'Aveyron
In Novis, come and contemplate the wide open spaces! First discover the village, a small village perched on the Causse with remarkable architecture and a 360° panorama. Three interpretation tables will allow you to read and understand the landscapes around you...
Circuit des dolmens
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).
Château de Montaigut
Gissac
Built in the 10th century, cellar, rooms with vaulted ceilings accessed via a spiral staircase, guards room, great room, kitchen and bedrooms show daily life in the Middle Ages. You can borrow medieval costumes for your visit and make unforgettable moments. Games in english for children in the castle and around. Documents translated in english.
Aire naturelle de La Mouline
Prévinquières
On the banks of the river Aveyron, perfect for picnics or just for relaxing. You can holiday in the open air at the nearby campsite.
Point de vue et table d'orientation à Villefranche-de-Rouergue
Villefranche-de-Rouergue
Site du Calvaire
Villefranche-de-Rouergue
Exceptional site whose origin is a protohistory fortification of 20 acres. Oppidum Gaulois a double fortification. Castellum after the conquest by Caesar on the Roman road.
Sentier botanique de St-Léons
St-Léons
1h walk (return to the dry lawn) or loop of 2h. Approx. fifteen panels on the trees of various natural environments (identification, use, legends...) Free access throughout the years
Visite Camarès
Camarès
Circuit discovery of the Vieux Camarès free visit (leaflet available at the Office de Tourisme).
Sentier ethno-botanique en Ségala "al travers"
Rignac
From the platform to the gorges de l'Aveyron discover the natural, landscape and built heritage of the Segala along the path.
Puech de Buzeins
Sévérac-d'Aveyron
You will discover a magnificent panorama of the Haute vallée de l'Aveyron from the Puech de Buzeins!
