Avec un paysage de grande qualite, l’Aveyron se présente en une ambiance insolite à la fois sauvage et patrimoine culturel. A cheval sur les departements de l’Aveyron et du Tarn-Et-Garonne, il est possible d’emmener au coeur de cette région par des villages qui s’inscrittent dans un véritable context historique.
Quelques villages qui ont fait partie des plus pittoresques du département :
Najac
Sitting perched above the river Aveyron, this cute little village is a definite must-visit if you love cute French villages. With its pretty streets and cosy restaurants, it’s hard not to fall in love with this place.
Belcastel
With its castle-fort, Belcastel is another of the many beautiful villages in the north of Aveyron that oozes charm and history. Originally constructed in the 13th century, it was purchased by former French President Valery Giscard d’Estaing in 2005 and is now open to visitors.
Brousse-le-Chateau
On the edge of the gorges du Tarn, Brousse-le-Chateau is another of the many villages that have earned their status as « plus beaux village » in the area. With its incredibly picturesque architecture – including its enceinte fort – and its magnificent view over the valley, it is certainly one of the best places to visit if you’re looking to see some of the most amazing examples of medieval architecture in the region.
Peyre
Located just north of Millau, Peyre is yet another example of a lovely little village that has embraced its unique charm and embodies the essence of the French countryside. Whether you are walking the ruelles or exploring the quaint medieval streets, this village is full of hidden treasures to discover.
La Couvertoirade
If you want to see a little bit of a different side to the Lot valley, visit this lovely village whose history is just as interesting as its scenery. In fact, it’s the only place in France where you can see a church built by the Hospitaliers of Larzac in the 12th century, with its original wooden spires.
Conques
A l’ombre de la superbe abbatiale Sainte-Foy, Conques is another of the many charming villages in the northern part of Aveyron that oozes heritage and charm. The village is a real mix of historic buildings and contemporary boutiques, with an impressively preserved hamlet and a superb restaurant that serves up delicious French fare.
Le village also has a fantastic church, the Cathedrale Notre-Dame-de-Conques which was constructed in the early 16th century, and a fine selection of restaurants.
Rodez
Situated a little bit further east in the département, Rodez is another of the many wonderful villages that adorn the northern Aveyron. This pretty town combines history with modernity, and has some beautiful churches and an impressive castle to explore.
Laguiole
A little bit higher in the mountains than Lareole, Laguiole is another of the great villages of the north of Aveyron. With a picturesque hilltop castle, this pretty village reflects the richness and diversity of its inhabitants and its ethos. It is a wonderful place to take in the beautiful views, while enjoying a delicious meal and a glass of wine.