Aveyron

Roquefort-sur-Soulzon

This small town is famous for its Roquefort cheese, which has been produced in the area for over a thousand years. Visitors can tour the underground caves where the cheese is aged and sample some of the local delicacies.

Najac

This picturesque village is perched on a hill overlooking the Aveyron River and is known for its medieval castle, which dates back to the 13th century. Najac also has a beautiful 14th-century bridge and a charming historic center with narrow streets and traditional houses.

Belcastel

This stunning village is nestled in a valley along the Aveyron River and is dominated by a beautiful 15th-century castle. Belcastel has been carefully restored to preserve its historic character and is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the beauty and charm of rural France.

WELCOME TO Aveyron

Entry Into Department

largest city

Rodez

AREA

8,735 km²

POPULATION

278,000

official language

French

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the canton's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Gorges du Tarn

Gorges du Tarn is a natural wonder located in Aveyron, France. The area is known for its stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and outdoor activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, and paragliding. The canyons were carved by the Tarn River over thousands of years, and offer breathtaking views of the rugged landscape.

Millau Viaduct

Millau Viaduct is an iconic bridge located near the town of Millau in Aveyron, France. It is the tallest cable-stayed bridge in the world and spans the Tarn River valley. The bridge has become a major tourist attraction, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys, and is a masterpiece of engineering.

Conques

Conques is a charming medieval village located in Aveyron, France. It is known for its beautiful Romanesque abbey, the Abbey Church of Saint Foy, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Conques is a popular tourist destination for its picturesque streets, traditional houses, and stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Political

Economy and Government

Aveyron's economy is diverse, with agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism being the primary industries. The region is known for producing high-quality Roquefort cheese and other dairy products. Agriculture also includes the cultivation of cereals, vines, and fruits, as well as sheep and beef farming. The manufacturing industry in Aveyron is centered around the production of machinery and equipment, as well as the aerospace and defense sectors. The region also has a growing tourism industry, with visitors coming to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The government of Aveyron is led by a prefect, who represents the national government, and a president of the departmental council, who oversees local government affairs. The departmental council is responsible for managing local services, such as education, social welfare, and infrastructure. Aveyron is divided into three arrondissements and 23 cantons, which elect representatives to the departmental council.

Overall, Aveyron's economy is diverse and its government is responsible for managing local affairs and providing essential services to its residents. The region's natural beauty and cultural heritage continue to attract visitors from around the world, making tourism an increasingly important part of its economy.

History

History and Culture

Aveyron has a rich history and culture that spans over thousands of years. The region was inhabited by prehistoric communities, and later by the Gauls and the Romans. Aveyron was a key center of resistance during the Hundred Years' War, and was also an important region for the Huguenot movement during the Reformation.

Aveyron's cultural heritage is also reflected in its traditional arts and crafts, such as pottery, knife-making, and embroidery. The region has a long tradition of music and dance, with folk festivals and events held throughout the year.

One of the most famous cultural landmarks in Aveyron is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Abbey Church of Saint Foy in Conques, which dates back to the 11th century. Other notable historic and cultural sites include the medieval castle of Najac, the fortified town of La Couvertoirade, and the Gothic Cathedral of Rodez.

Aveyron's cuisine is also an important part of its cultural heritage, with a focus on locally-sourced and high-quality ingredients. The region is particularly famous for its Roquefort cheese, which is produced exclusively in Aveyron.

HOTELS

La Bastide de Lassalle

Located in the village of Najac, La Bastide de Lassalle is a luxury hotel housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion. It features an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant that serves traditional French cuisine.

Château de Labro

Set in a 16th-century castle surrounded by lush gardens and rolling hills, Château de Labro is a boutique hotel located just outside the town of Rodez. It features elegant rooms and suites, an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant, and a wine bar.

Hôtel de la Muse et du Rozier

Overlooking the Tarn River and the Gorges du Tarn, Hôtel de la Muse et du Rozier is a contemporary hotel located in the village of Mostuéjouls. It features stylish rooms and suites, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant that serves regional cuisine with a modern twist.

RESTAURANTS

Le Sénéchal

Located in the village of Sauveterre-de-Rouergue, Le Sénéchal is a Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in modern French cuisine. It features an elegant dining room with stone walls and wooden beams, and a creative menu that uses locally-sourced ingredients.

Le Bistrot de la Tour

Situated in the town of Espalion, Le Bistrot de la Tour is a cozy restaurant that offers traditional French cuisine with a modern twist. It features a seasonal menu that highlights local produce, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

La Table du Belvédère

Set in a hilltop location in the village of Bozouls, La Table du Belvédère offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The restaurant serves contemporary French cuisine that highlights local ingredients, with a menu that changes regularly to reflect the seasons. The restaurant also features a terrace for outdoor dining.