A limestone plateau formed several tens of millions of years ago, the Causse de Villeneuve d'Aveyron conceals a rich natural and cultural heritage. Venture into these arid landscapes full of surprises!
The Causse de Villeneuve forms the western tip of the Aveyron department. It stretches from the Villefranche-de-Rouergue geological fault to the Lot River and the villages of Saint-Jean-de-Laur, Laramière and Martiel.
The Causse: a fascinating geology
Like all causses, that of Villeneuve d'Aveyron is a limestone plateau, formed tens of millions of years ago when the area was covered by a warm sea, a little deep. By opening your eyes, you will be able to observe many shell fossils which testify to this.
The soils of the Causse de Villeneuve d'Aveyron are poor in nutrients, but rich in minerals! It contains calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, which gives it a high environmental value.
The fauna and flora of the causse
The vegetation of the Causse de Villeneuve d'Aveyron is typical of karst plateaus, with a vegetation cover adapted to the semi-arid climatic conditions of the region. There is short and sparse vegetation, characteristic of limestone soils, mainly composed of holm oaks, boxwood, junipers and heather. Many varieties of orchids are also to be seen in season.
In terms of fauna, marine animals have given way to sheep… but not only! You can also observe birds such as the eagle owl, the kestrel or peregrine falcon, the rock swallow, or even mammals such as the fox, the badger, or the marten. As well as a great diversity of insects.
À see and do on the Causse de Villeneuve
A perfect destination for outdoor activities
The plateau is an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as hiking on foot, by bicycle or on horseback. Stroll along its many paths lined with dry stone walls and contemplate this unspoiled nature. Lovers of wide open spaces and panoramic views? You will be satisfied!
To visit in and around Villeneuve
The Causse de Villeneuve is full of nuggets to discover. Here are some must-sees:
- The safety-bastide of Villeneuve.
- The Jean-Marie Périer gallery.
- The prehistoric cave of Foissac and the dolmens.
- The pre-Romanesque church of Tolongergues.
- The village of Montsalès, the Galerie de la Tour and the viewpoints over the Lot valley.
You will also like...
Lovers of nature and wide open spaces? Discover the wild gorges of Aveyron but also the Causse de Villeneuve and its little nuggets!
