Visit Belcastel: what are the best things to do and see in this Aveyronnais village? Dive into one of the most nice villages France!
Located in the heart of the Occitania region, in Aveyron, visit Belcastel. Just 25 kilometers from Rodez, don't miss visiting this charming village. It is dominated by an imposing fortified castle, completely restored. The village has a rich and magnificent medieval heritage, to be discovered without moderation. Its beautiful stone houses, and the river of Aveyron that passes through it, give it a peaceful side. You will have no choice but to succumb to the charm of this little town out of time.
Follow the guide, discovering a true little treasure!
1. The heart of the village
Photo credit: Shutterstock – leoks
Are you visiting Belcastel during your holiday? So the first thing to do is to walk in the heart of the village. The special atmosphere of this medieval village is most soothing.
You will discover the bread oven, or the Lord's chairs, through the small winding streets of Calade. These last, carved in the rock of Roquecante, date from the sixteenth century. A real good in the past awaits you during your visit.
2. The castle of Belcastel
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Nicotrex
The castle is truly an immanquable to do in Belcastel! And for cause, this medieval vestige that dominates the village, has a rich history, full of bounce. Founded in the 1040s, this magnificent fortress was the home of the Saunhac family, and the refuge of the nobles during the French Revolution. In 1975, it was bought and completely restored by the architect Fernand Pouillon .
Today it is open to the public, and exhibits a magnificent collection of medieval weapons. Also know that the castle offers a sublime guest room... For an exceptional moment!
3. The Forge Museum and former trades
Photo credit: Facebook – Forge house and former trades
Going to visit Belcastel, do not miss making a small detour to the old forge of the village, completely restored. Today, she proposes to let you discover the professions that were practised in the village in the last century. Immerse yourself in the life of a blacksmith or sinner, admire the tools of a sabotier, or learn everything you need to know about sylvistructure. A great activity to do in Belcastel!
4. The Church of Saint Mary Magdalene
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Begir
If you are going to visit Belcastel, you will immediately notice the sublime church of the village. Dating from the 15th century, it was built by the owner of the castle of the time: Alzias de Saunhac. The blasons of the family are present inside the building. In addition to a sublime architecture, the church contains a tomb, covered by a glove, as well as four statues, classified as a historic monument.
5. The Old Bridge
Photo credit: Shutterstock – leoks
Another work of the Saunhac family to discover if you are going to visit Belcastel. This medieval bridge was also built in the 15th century. His purpose? Allow people to cross the river and easily access the Church of St. Magdalene. This magnificent testimony of the past is very photogenic!
6. Le Roc d’Anglars
Photo credit: Flickr – Can Pit Roig Barcelona
If you’re looking for what to do in Belcastel, then head to the Roc d’Anglars, located 500 meters above the village. It is in fact the ruins of a former defence fort, whose construction date is estimated around the Fifth Century. Perched 50 metres above the river, its fortification system is about 20 metres in diameter. From here, the view of the river is just beautiful.
7. The site of the Lourdou
Photo credit: Facebook – Weather-Millau
Another thing to do in Belcastel is the site of the Lourdou. In Occitan, Lourdou means "Little Lourdes". And indeed, this Catholic site located below the Roc d’Anglars, on the banks of the river, recalls the cave of Lourdes .
There you will find a statue of the virgin, erected in a cave, in which a hotel was built. To get there, you will cross a small wooden bridge, making this place even more bucolic.
8. Summer night markets
Photo credit: Facebook – The Farm of Fadiols
If you come to visit Belcastel in July or August, then don't miss its traditional night market, which takes place every Friday.
Artisans and producers exhibit their stands in the centre of the village, for the greatest pleasure of the inhabitants and visitors. The opportunity to taste delicious fresh products from the region, in a friendly atmosphere.
How to get to Belcastel?
You want to go to Belcastel and ask yourself how to get there? They tell you everything here!
By car
- From Montpellier (2h30) : take the A75 to Exit 44.1-Gorges du Tarn, then the D29 direction Rodez, and the D994 to Belcastel.
- From Clermont-Ferrand (3h) : take the A75 to Severac the Castle (exit No. 42) and the N88 to reach Rodez. Take the D994, direction Villefranche de Rouergue.
- From Bordeaux (3h30) : take the A62, then the A20 (exit No. 59) and the D926 to Villefranche de Rouergue. Then take the D1, direction Rodez for Belcastel.
Air/train/bus
If you fly, the nearest airport is Rodez-Marcillac, 22 km away. Just like the nearest SNCF station that is also located in Rodez. You can then reach Mayran via bus line 203 (the village served closest to Belcastel (5km) or rent a car in Rodez , indispensable if you want to visit the region.
For your flight tickets, do not hesitate to consult the offers on the flight comparison Skyscanner , which will help you find the best prices.
Where to stay in Belcastel?
If you choose to visit Belcastel, we recommend reading our article " Where to sleep in Belcastel? " You will find all the most beautiful hotel addresses, but also apartments, to stay in the nearby village.
However, it is a small village, where the offer of housing is not very provided. So don’t forget to book in advance. With the help of this Compare hotels , you will find the cheapest rates, according to your departure dates.
Good stay in Aveyron!
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