Departing from the bastide, set off to explore the surrounding area! Choose your route among the hikes in Villefranche de Rouergue.
Where to walk in Villefranche de Rouergue? We suggest three itineraries in the town:
Calvary Walk – 4,2 km
Want to gain height and offer yourself a breathtaking view of the magnificent medieval bastide of Villefranche-de-Rouergue ? Follow the Stations of the Cross to the top of Calvary Hill and marvel at the breathtaking panorama.
Heritage Trail – 5,3 km
Follow the Aveyron river and enjoy the calm at the gates of the town of Villefranche de Rouergue. With its very low elevation, the Heritage Trail is perfect for a family walk!
Le Malpas, short variant – 8,3 km
This circuit is a variation of the circuit of the same name “Le Malpas” by avoiding the part in town. Very beautiful family and shaded walk, from the pretty paths of the causse towards La Rouquette to the banks of the Malpas stream, you will take the path of Compostela for 3 km like the pilgrims in the Middle Ages on the way to Santiago known as “Conques – Toulouse”.
You will discover a small castle, the path called Chemin des Loups, a beautifully restored hamlet, the Vernhet farmhouse with a dry stone hut and an old washhouse-watering trough on the edge of the stream.
This hike is accessible by Bastibus from the city center of Villefranche de Rouergue.
This hike is marked GR (white and red), then PR (yellow) and GR (white and red) again for the return. The marking is done by volunteers from the Villefranche de Rouergue hiking association: Lo Caminaïre. There is a topo-guide of 25 hikes produced and published by this same association and called “En Pays Villefranchois”
To see all the hikes in Villefranche de Rouergue, click here.
Boï circuit – 9,4 km
From the historic center, climb to the heights for a superb view of Villefranche de Rouergue and its bastide. You will then go back down to the edge of the Aveyron river. Take advantage of this moment to stroll along the water's edge.
Why choose Villefranche de Rouergue for your hikes?
If you love hiking, you will love discovering this city and its surroundings on foot. Here’s why Villefranche-de-Rouergue is the ideal destination for your hiking adventures.
A journey through history
As you walk through Villefranche-de-Rouergue, you will delve into the fascinating history of this country house founded in 1252. Before or after your hike, explore the city's architectural treasures. Admire the majestic Notre Dame collegiate church, cross the picturesque Pont des Consuls, and lose yourself in the medieval streets lined with half-timbered houses. Every street corner tells a story.
Breathtaking views
Villefranche-de-Rouergue is surrounded by pleasant natural landscapes to explore. By taking the Calvary Walk or Boi circuit, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Aveyron valley. Viewpoints along the trail provide perfect opportunities to take photos and admire the beauty of the area.
Hiking trails for all levels
Whether you are a novice or experienced hiker, Villefranche-de-Rouergue offers trails suitable for everyone. THE Heritage Trail is ideal for families, with its explanatory panels that make the walk educational and fun for children. The picnic area of the green theater and the green spaces along the circuit offer perfect places for a gourmet break and moments of relaxation in the open air.
