Located in the Midi-Pyrenees region of southern France, the departement of Aveyron is one of the largest such areas in France. Consisting mainly of open, mountainous areas and small villages, the main town, Rodez, has an attractive medieval centre, lots of restaurants and is an ideal place to base yourself if you are planning on spending more time exploring the area. Most famous for some of its interesting culinary specialities, Aveyron is an ideal destination for those who enjoy walking and spending time outdoors.
In the north of the region is the Aubrac plateau, a windswept and dramatic open space covered with meadows and farmland. While temperatures up here are ideal for hiking and mountain biking in the summer, in winter the area can often be covered in snow, so take precautions if you are visiting Aveyron any time from October onwards. Herds of cows are pastured up here, and they even have their own summer festival, when all the animals are decorated with bells and bows! This part of Aveyron is also well known for a number of spectacular gorges; local rivers such as the Tarn, the Lot and the Aveyron itself have carved their way through rocks, cliffs and mountains, creating some spectacular and picturesque scenery. Walkers will enjoy the routes along the top of the gorges, while those who prefer water sports, such as fishing or canoeing, can stay at river-level. These gorges are also dotted with hilltop villages, each with their own charm and most offering their own unique and panoramic views of the countryside.
Head further south and outdoor sports fans and walkers are still well catered for. The Larzac plateau, with its distinctive red soil and sheep farms, is crossed by walking trails of varying difficulties, while the nearby Grands Causses Regional Nature Park is rich in local plant and animal life. Both areas are quiet, no matter what the time of year, with only a few locals likely to be sharing your walking trail. Aveyron's most famous attraction, however, isn't a town or an area of outstanding natural beauty but a cheese. The distinctive Roquefort cheese, with its strong smell, is made with the milk of the ewes that spend their time grazing on the Larzac plateau. The cheese is made in caves, some of which are open to tourists, complete with a guided tour and a chance to try some of the local delicacy.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Aveyron? Then below is a selection of gites in Aveyron and villas in Aveyron that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
