Be inspired by our stories, adventures and experiences. Live with us the best moments, the most beautiful hikes, the best activities and unusual visits. With family, couple or friends, live beautiful stories in Bastides and Gorges de l'Aveyron!
5 good reasons to come to the gorges of Aveyron
Why spend your vacation in the Aveyron Gorges? Here are five good reasons to visit this unspoiled corner of Aveyron, a region steeped in wild nature and preserved heritage. In its wild, meandering section between Belcastel and Najac, it crosses a veritable green setting that only the most dedicated hikers will be able to penetrate...
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Guided tour of the church of Tolongergues
Let's discover an enigmatic place in Villeneuve d'Aveyron! Visigothic past, pre-Romanesque heritage… the guided tour of the church of Toulongergues has many surprises in store for us. It's an understatement to say that visiting the Toulongergues church takes me back to my childhood... The last time I saw the site, I was 13, and it was a barn!...
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Bastides and Aveyron gorges by bike!
I'm taking you on a bike ride through the heart of the bastides and gorges of Aveyron! Follow me from Villefranche de Rouergue to Najac via Villeneuve d'Aveyron to admire the beautiful landscapes... Leaving from Villefranche de Rouergue, let's get on the bike! As soon as I arrive in Villefranche-de-Rouergue, I decide to go up high, heading for the...
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Ready to surpass yourself? 9 races and trails in Aveyron to try!
Our selection of trail runs and races in Aveyron: sporting challenges, incredible landscapes, and a friendly atmosphere await you! Check the calendar and choose your next challenge. Races and trail runs in Aveyron | 2026 program under construction. Discover the 2026 sports calendar for races and trail runs in the Bastides region...
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5 ideas for a beautiful Valentine's Day
In a romantic mood in this month of February, I give you my tips and suggestions for having the best Valentine's Day!
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What to do in Villefranche de Rouergue?
Looking for things to see and do in Villefranche-de-Rouergue? Here are our top 10 must-do activities: guided tours, attractions, events, sports, and leisure activities. Whether you're with family or friends, plan your trip according to your wishes! Top 10 things to see and do...
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To try: a 100% nature outing in Aveyron
Want to spend some time outdoors observing nature, fauna and flora? We tell you about our discovery of the Montaris marsh, between Salles-Courbatiès and Villeneuve d'Aveyron! Rémi Garrigou welcomes us from Salles-Courbatiès, a small village in Aveyron, 8 minutes from Villeneuve and 20 minutes from Villefranche de Rouergue....
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Storytelling evenings: 3 magical walks to experience under the stars
When night falls on the fortified towns and medieval alleyways, stories come alive… This season, let yourself be swept away by three exclusive storytelling evenings in Villeneuve d'Aveyron and Najac, in the company of two renowned voices: Michel Galaret and Sharon Evans. ✨ A rare experience: only 3 dates 🎟️ Limited places: registration required 👉 Book quickly to…
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Eco-friendly travel: habits to adopt for your next trip
Going on a trip often means filling the car to the brim, enduring endless flights, and returning with suitcases full of souvenirs. What if you learned to travel differently? Minimalism can also apply to your travels: take only the essentials, consume less, and respect the environment. With these three key steps, you're all set...
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Introduction to falconry
with the Horts of WalhallaAn unusual activity awaits us in Villeneuve d'Aveyron: an introduction to falconry with a falconry demonstration. Join us as we discover birds of prey! After passing through the charming village of Villeneuve d'Aveyron, we arrive at Isabelle's house. She welcomes us to her garden. Before us stretch the fields of the Villeneuve plateau. Isabelle introduces herself...
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Jean-Marie Périer Gallery: the playlist
Did you like the sound ambiance of the Galerie Jean-Marie? Do you want to find a song that you liked? Find the full playlist! Our selection: good sound for every occasion Here, only music performed by the artists photographed by Jean-Marie Périer. The team has selected a top 10 of timeless tracks that will (re)put...
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What to do in Aveyron in winter?
Thrills and wonder: your guide to Aveyron in winter, around Najac, Villefranche de Rouergue, and Villeneuve. Enough to make you want to come in the off-season! For each village, we'll give you our favorite ideas for enjoying the destination when things are quieter. And as a bonus at the end: 12...
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Fall Break: 15 Family Activities
Take advantage of the fall break to share unforgettable moments with your family! Discover 15 activity ideas for the fall break.
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Your weekend by the fire: rentals with fireplace
Imagine yourself, comfortably seated in a soft armchair, a steaming cup in hand, listening to the crackling of the logs… Discover our selection of gîtes and guest rooms with fireplaces or stoves, perfect for enhancing a cocooning weekend in Aveyron. Experiences to live in winter Even if you are nice and warm in your rental...
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Top hikes to do in autumn
Want to get some fresh air? Discover the most beautiful hikes to do in autumn in Aveyron. Autumn is a great time of year to embark on the "Najac, a hilltop village" hiking trail. On the heights of the village, head into the chestnut groves where intense red, ochre, and yellow colors dominate. The trail, lined with...
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Weekend between bastides and Aveyron gorges on the way to Compostela
Follow me from Salles-Courbatiès to Najac for two days of hiking between fortified towns and gorges of the Aveyron. A little over 36 kilometers to cover on the GR 62b and the GR 36 towards Santiago de Compostela. Aurélie Michel Departure by train from Najac It's with a superb low-angle view of the dungeon...
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Nature walk on the causse of Villeneuve d'Aveyron
As a student in Toulouse, I often come back to Villeneuve d'Aveyron, this beautiful little medieval town where I come from. Looking through the Bastides and Gorges de l'Aveyron destination magazine, I see that the tourist office organizes nature walks on the causse. Needing a breath of fresh air after my exams and in love with my...
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4 free outings to enjoy nature in September
September is the perfect time to marvel at what nature still has up its sleeve. We've found four 100% free outings for you to enjoy the great outdoors and learn some surprising tips... What if nettles weren't just a plant to avoid? With Michaël Fayret, wild forager and passionate botanist, little...
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Fishing, soon a new passion for your little ones!
Family holidays in Aveyron = activity in the great outdoors. Today, it's fishing activities for children at La Fouillade lake! I'll tell you... This fishing event is organized by the Aveyron Fishing Federation and led by Julien Lagarrigue, professional fishing guide instructor. This enthusiast also offers initiation and...
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Family nature hike weekend
Our New Year's resolution? Treat yourself to a hiking weekend! After the holidays, a breath of fresh air in the great outdoors will do the whole family a world of good! Despite the cold, it's sunny this weekend. Perfect for enjoying the fresh air of Aveyron! Hiking boots, a backpack...
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Where to have a drink?
Discover the best places to have a drink in Villefranche de Rouergue, Villeneuve d'Aveyron, Najac and the surrounding area. Friendly bars, lively terraces and must-see places for a successful outing with friends.
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Sunday outing: rediscover your corner of paradise
"We know the places we go on vacation better than our own region." We hear this phrase so often that it could become a tourist slogan. What if, this Sunday, after coffee (and your mother-in-law's pie), you decided to give the lie to this good old adage? Here are some ideas for...
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Test: Which visit is right for you?
Classic, sensory, or nighttime tour... Which tour is right for you? Take the test and find out! Why would you choose a guided tour over a self-guided tour? 🤩 To gain in-depth knowledge. In fact, I could listen to a guide for hours...🌿 No wasted time (or route), the guide knows...
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8 hikes to explore the Causse
Explore the Causse with 8 hikes featuring unspoiled nature, sublime views, and charming trails. The adventure begins here!
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5 free family activities
We bring you a selection of 5 free activities to do with your family in Aveyron. Transform a walk into an exploration or a simple visit into an adventure: that's what we offer you here, plus it's free!
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Our most beautiful sunrises and sunsets
Discover the best spots to contemplate the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets in the Bastides and Gorges of Aveyron. Sunset at Calvaire In Villefranche de Rouergue, it is on the heights of the city that you can contemplate a superb sunset. From the belvedere, you will see the Aveyron river, the roofs...
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Spring break: family fun and adventures!
Want to spend an unforgettable spring break in Aveyron? Discover our TOP 10 activities for families: nature walks, outdoor games, fun visits, and adventures for young and old. Everything you need to create magical memories together! 10 ideas for family activities for the holidays
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The Bastides and Gorges of Aveyron by van
Looking for adventure? Explore the Bastides and Gorges of Aveyron in a van. Three days on the beautiful roads of West Aveyron in Van Life mode, between viewpoints, characterful villages and must-see sites. The stay: practical side Length of stay: 3 days and 2 nights Distance to cover on the route: approximately...
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On a walk on the heights of the Lot valley
Awaken your senses during a hike in the heart of the Causse. Alone, with family, or with friends, you'll be amazed by this endless green nature and its breathtaking panoramas! Grab your sneakers and let's go! There's nothing like a little hike on this sunny June 1st. It's forecast to...
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We discovered the dolmens of Foissac!
In the heart of the Causse de Villeneuve, this circuit is ideal for families, well marked (large blue arrows) and accessible to all! Follow the paths between oaks and junipers to discover the dolmens of Foissac, large monolithic stones built on top of each other and take the opportunity to listen to nature. It's...
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Our top 7 castles
to visitFrom an imposing medieval fortress to a sumptuous Renaissance residence, experience castle life in the Bastides and Gorges of Aveyron. Here are our top 7 castles to visit around Villefranche-de-Rouergue, Najac, and Villeneuve-d'Aveyron. Fortresses and castles: take on the challenge! Climb to the top of the fortress keep...
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Three magical experiences to have with horses
Experience unique moments with horses! Peaceful rides for adults, adventures for children... We invite you to live three magical experiences with horses! With a passionate guide at your side, you will take shaded paths, cross sun-drenched meadows and discover secret places where only the song of...
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Top 7 activities to do in Aveyron when it’s hot
When the temperature rises, there's no point staying indoors! There are a multitude of activities to do in Aveyron when the weather is hot. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or a water sports fan, you'll find what you're looking for. Here are our top 7 activities to enjoy even when it's hot! The...
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Interviews: the favorite desserts of Villefranche residents
What do you think is the best dessert in Villefranche-de-Rouergue? We asked the people of Villefranche-de-Rouergue, and here's their answer! A sure bet: profiteroles. Dessert selected by Muriel. The profiteroles at Gaya restaurant are a real treat for fans of classic desserts. These small, golden, crispy puffs, filled with cream...
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Wellness stay
On this mild January weekend like the southwest knows so much, we decided, with my companion, to treat ourselves to a two-day well-being break in Aveyron. Nothing like after the holidays! First day under the sign of well-being We booked our getaway here because this small town surrounded...
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What to do 2 hours from Toulouse?
We give you ideas for visits and activities less than 2 hours from Toulouse. Getaways with or without a car to get a breath of fresh air surrounded by nature. Coming to Najac also means choosing a concentrate of nature, between the wooded hills of the Aveyron gorges and a discreet river. A paradise to practice...
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Netflix series in Villefranche de Rouergue, behind the scenes
Netflix series in Villefranche de Rouergue: an astonishing filming location for the adaptation of the book “All the Light We Cannot See” All the Light We Cannot See is the title of the novel written by Anthony Doerr, published in 2014 under the original title “All the Light We Cannot See”. This book met...
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From Toulouse to Villefranche de Rouergue by train
Discover the Bastides and Gorges of the Aveyron by train! From Toulouse Matabiau train station, head towards Villefranche de Rouergue: an authentic bastide town 1 hour 40 minutes from Toulouse. From Toulouse to Villefranche de Rouergue by train: board immediately! At Toulouse Matabiau train station, embark on a journey to...
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Loc Dieu, the abbey that saved the Mona Lisa
Did you know? Located a few minutes from Villefranche-de-Rouergue, Loc Dieu Abbey housed the Mona Lisa in 1940. Loc Dieu: The Fortified Abbey with an Incredible Past Abbeys are full of surprises. Just a stone's throw from Villefranche-de-Rouergue and the majestic Chartreuse Saint-Sauveur, let's discover Loc Dieu, the fortified abbey that housed the...
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Plunge into the heart of the Sixties at the Galerie Jean-Marie Périer
Spending the weekend in Aveyron, I decided to surprise my parents by inviting them to the Jean-Marie Périer Gallery in Villeneuve d'Aveyron. Loving 60s music and having recently seen the famous photographer on television talking about the site, the experience really appeals to me! I'll tell you... A building...
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Visit to the alpaca farm
Looking for an unusual activity for our vacation and to please the children, we book a visit to the DuPrem Alpaga farm, in Maleville. An outing in the heart of nature among the alpacas, the whole family is enthusiastic so let's go! A farm of enthusiasts At first glance, the setting seduces us! The...
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A cure of duck therapy, what do you think?
Jacky Carles is an institution in his own right: in the heart of the Aveyron Gorges, he set up his farm some fifty years ago with one idea in mind: green tourism! And today, people flock there to taste duck specialties in all sauces! Welcome to the farm...
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We fly over Villefranche de Rouergue and Najac by plane
I wanted something special, a little out of the ordinary... Come on, I'll take you up in the air for a discovery flight from Villefranche-de-Rouergue. To make this childhood dream come true, I contacted the Rouergue Flying Club, located at the Château de Graves airfield in Villefranche-de-Rouergue. Its members are...
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Sensory visit of the chapel of the Black Penitents
Discover the heritage differently with the sensory visit of the chapel of the Black Penitents. Observe, feel, listen... Awaken your senses in this surprising monument in Villefranche de Rouergue. Fond of unusual discoveries, I decided to register with my brother for the sensory visit to the chapel of the Pénitents Noirs in Villefranche-de-Rouergue. Wishing to avoid the traditional...
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Three days in Villefranche de Rouergue
A desire to escape from our daily lives in Toulouse brings us to Aveyron! Three days in Villefranche de Rouergue: perfect for a weekend less than 2 hours from Toulouse. Friday: visit the must-see monuments of Villefranche de Rouergue The Chapel of the Black Penitents We begin our weekend with a visit to the chapel...
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Tonight we visit Villeneuve d'Aveyron by torchlight!
From the Place des Conques, to the Villeneuve church, passing through the winding streets of the medieval town, the torchlight guided tour plunges us into a magical atmosphere. The weather is pleasant, on this mild summer evening, we quietly cross the alleys of the medieval city to the Place des Conques. A little...
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A whole art, from the Aveyron gorges to the Lot valley
Lovers of modern and contemporary art? Follow us on a road trip from the Aveyron Gorges to the Lot Valley. A 100% artistic itinerary for lovers of exhibitions and galleries. Stage 1: Beaulieu Abbey in Ginals We begin our artistic itinerary in the Seye Valley, a small river about 48 kilometers long that takes its...
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Our 7 ideas for a weekend in Aveyron
Heritage lovers, hiking enthusiasts, food lovers... Choose the theme that's right for you for a weekend in Aveyron. In this article, we share our ideas for a weekend in the Bastides and Gorges of Aveyron destination, one of the Grands Sites Occitanie - Sud de France. A wealth of heritage in one weekend...
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The Aveyron river by canoe!
Follow us along the river! We're taking you on our canoe in Najac for a refreshing trip on the Aveyron. A great feeling to experience in the great outdoors... Monday, May 30, 2022, it's already unseasonably warm. Nearly 30°C in the shade! With a longtime friend, we decide to go on a...
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What to do in Najac?
Looking for things to see and do in Najac? Here are our top 10 must-do activities: guided tours, attractions, events, sports, and leisure activities. Top 10 things to do and see in Najac Planning your stay in the Bastides and Gorges of the Aveyron? You're already there...
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Night visit of the Chartreuse Saint-Sauveur
We tell you about our nocturnal visit to the Chartreuse Saint-Sauveur, an unforgettable unusual experience. With us, dive into a magical world, to the chanting of monks and the light of candles... An enchanting place With my companion, we arrive at the Saint-Sauveur Charterhouse after a pleasant dinner in a restaurant in the center of Villefranche....
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At the Villefranche de Rouergue market
Thursday morning in Villefranche is market time! Head to the heart of the medieval fortified town, where an explosion of flavors and colors are on the menu. Local produce, local specialties... One goal: treat yourself! The market: colors and flavors It's 9 a.m. when we arrive at Place Notre-Dame, following the colorful broomstick...
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Street Art in Decazeville
Want to get off the beaten track? The Decazeville Street Art Trail is for you! Follow us through the streets of the towns of the Decazeville region to admire captivating murals. Decazeville, Aveyron's Street Art Capital? West Aveyron Tourism Create an open-air museum accessible to all:...
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What to do in Villeneuve d'Aveyron?
Looking for things to see and do in Villeneuve d'Aveyron? Here are our top 10 must-do activities: guided tours, attractions, events, sports and leisure activities... Top 10 things to see and do in Villeneuve d'Aveyron Are you planning your stay in the Bastides and Gorges of the Aveyron? Are you already...
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Paragliding flight over the heights of the Lot valley
I'm taking you to the west of Aveyron for my first paragliding flight over the heights of the Lot! Fly with me... Already knowing this legend well, I would like not to suffer the same fate as the mounine! David immediately reassures me: he has been practicing his activity for years, before in the Alps, and masters...
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Villefranche, seen from the sky
Fly with me over Villefranche! Live a unique experience in the air in a microlight… It’s 19 p.m., I’m at the edge of the Villefranche-de-Rouergue airfield in Graves… the runway is empty, a cat is crossing the grass and then, I hear the dull sound of an engine approaching, I see a bird in the distance…
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A summer evening in Aveyron
Experience festive moments in Aveyron! Because here we love to get together, sing, dance, toast... I'll take you to where simplicity, conviviality and generosity reign: the village festivals! A tour of the Festival en Bastides Gourmet break at the night market After a beautiful day in the sun, I don't stop there! Summer evenings are...
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Visit of the chapel of the Pénitents Noirs with the family
Join us as we explore the Chapel of the Black Penitents, a jewel of Villefranche's heritage! A guided tour with a booklet for a simple family experience. After enjoying the beautiful and large Villefranche market, we headed to the Chapel of the Black Penitents, located in the upper part of the bastide. In...
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A day at the Festival in Bastides
On vacation near Villefranche de Rouergue in August, we discover the program of the Festival en Bastides! Six days of shows and artistic performances to the rhythm of music, all in a festive and warm atmosphere... Let's go! A clown show in Villeneuve After quickly browsing the rich program of entertainment,...
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