With its wild and preserved landscapes, the Aveyron river is one of the calmest in France. But beware of still water, you could be surprised by the graceful breaststroke of an otter at your feet!

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Photo, © D.Viet – CRTL Occitanie

The Aveyron river: more than 290 km to browse

The river rises in the Aveyron department at Séverac-le-Château. It flows along wide, green plains to Rodez, then enters the heart of the valleys near Belcastel . It passes through Villefranche-de-Rouergue , Najac, and then Laguépie in Tarn-et-Garonne. There, it is joined by its tributary, the Viaur, and follows the gorges at Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val and Bruniquel, finally ending its course at Montauban and flowing into the Tarn.

Aveyron river map

A discreet river that is not easy to approach

In its wild and meandering section between Belcastel and Najac , it crosses the valley in a veritable green setting with high hills whose secrets only the most persevering hikers will be able to unlock.

From Najac to Montricoux, this verdant atmosphere gives way to a more mineral landscape of gorges dominated by a string of hilltop villages and castles.

A Natura 2000 site

The Gorges de l'Aveyron are home to animal and plant species whose quality, rarity or fragility is recognized. As such, they are included in the European Natura 2000 network. The goal? Protect this biodiversity which makes the richness of our landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Aveyron river has its source in the Sévérac-le-Château causse.

The main tributaries of the Aveyron at the destination are Le Viaur, L'Alzou, La Bonnette, L'Assou, La Serène, La Diège.

The Aveyron flows into the Tarn northwest of Montauban.

To learn more about swimming in natural water, visit our dedicated page.

Are you tempted by riverside activities?

Its current is gentle, the waters of the Aveyron are calm, conducive to water sports such as canoeing or paddleboarding on the lakes or basins that are equipped and accessible to all.

In the heart of the limestone rocks of the Causse de Saint Antonin, thrill-seekers will love practicing climbing , via ferrata or even paragliding.

For fishing enthusiasts , the river will be your playground: trout, gudgeon or bleak will be hiding among the rocks, it's up to you to catch them!

On hot summer days, you can also enjoy the coolness of a walk in the shade of the oaks on our country lanes or a wild swim in the river.

Want to laze by the water?

Near the Vezis bridge in Villefranche or the Saint-Blaise bridge in Najac, you can sit quietly and listen to the gentle lapping of the water… the ideal place to take out your picnic basket and enjoy our local products!

Whether by a lake or a stream, enjoy the great outdoors with your family: picnic areas with children's play areas and hiking trails are available throughout our region. Head to Monteils, St-Rémy, or Bannac for a relaxing and enjoyable time!

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