Visit the Gorges de l'Aveyron : full guide

Do you like the waterfall? Or did you prefer to see nature? Wanderlix has the ideal guide to make you visit the Gorges de l’Aveyron!

Opinions to lovers of authentic landscapes and picturesque villages. The Gorges de l’Aveyron, close to Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val and Bruniquel, are a natural site that has preserved its environment. Limestone cliffs and quasi-intacted medieval cities are in turn looking at the territory. The green environment, dotted with rivers with clear water and swept by the sun, bears witness to the beauty of Occitania. The Gorges de l’Aveyron offers a large catalogue of activities in the middle of nature. The magnitude of the landscape can impress but do not panic! Wanderlix has prepared a comprehensive guide to help you visit the Gorges d’Aveyron.

The Gorges de l’Aveyron in a few words

In terms of panoramic views, the Aveyron Gorges do not disappoint. This natural space with vertiginous cliffs offers many observation points. You can admire its rivers, its lost-view forests and its rocky walls. Indeed, its relief environment offers a wide variety of hiking, mountain biking or canoeing paths. The most skilful will also try climbing, paragliding or speleology. It is also one of its assets. The place is occupied by several caves, dug by the rivers of the Gorges. In the summer, the caves of Bosc, Foissac or Dargilan reveal another dimension to the region.

But the interest of visiting the Gorges de l’Aveyron also resides in its medieval villages. The heritage of the site survived the ravages of history. A true journey in time, the bastides of Rouergue such as Najac, Villefranche-de-Rouergue or Belcastel will revive the wonderful medieval past of the region.

1. A canoe-kayak walk

Many water streams in the area, Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val is the most appreciated for its quiet enchanting. Explore the Aveyron Gorges in canoe-kayak! On the programme, the river offers landscapes bathed by the sun. Along the current, discover its beaches, rapids, natural divers and cliffs; all on fresh temperatures!

Terms and rates

• To visit the Gorges de l’Aveyron en canoë-kayak, you will have to plan between 15€ and 30€ to rent a boat;
• Several routes are available to you. The price may vary 40€ to 80€ per person depending on the duration of the stay;
• Being able to swim is imperative;
• The minimum age required is 5 years.

2. A circuit of access

Maybe you're less tempted by nautical activities? In this case, what would you say to take a ride to Najac to practice a bit of hip?

The base of full nature Aagac brings together a multitude of sports courses. Its Aventure Park covers 1400 m and offers 119 different routes, adapted to your desires and at any age. Under the supervision of the operators, you can enjoy these circuits for a duration of 1 to 3 hours.

Terms and rates

• 13€ to 20€ are to be expected for the different rates adapted to age and travel desires;
• The minimum size required differs depending on the course. In all cases, a limit1 meter is imposed;
• For under 12 years, the presence of an adult on the park is mandatory.

3. Discovery in paddle

The Aajac base offers sports activities as varied as original. If you visit the Gorges de l’Aveyron, go to the stand-up paddle. This water slide sport will take you paddle on the quiet rivers of Najac, in balance on an oversized board.

This sport takes place especially in the summer. You can enjoy a 1h30 session with a monitor to learn the basics of the paddle.

Terms and rates

• For 1:30, the rate will be 20€ per person ;
• Reservation only, the activity takes place according to the number of places and participants;
• It is compulsory wear a helmet and lifejacket. But knowing swim is also imperative.

4. One hiking pedal

The winding reliefs of the Gorges de l’Aveyron offer many opportunities for hiking enthusiasts.

For example, let's take Cirque de Nibouzou and Deymié. This circuit of 7.8 km brings 2h30 walk on a positive 286 m elevation:

• Caillous paths;
• A house in ruins;
• A view of the Aveyron River;
• The Roc de Deymié where fans of paragliding and delta-plane take their flight.

But the area also offers family walks. Discovering local fauna and flora, you can see otters along the river Aveyron and distinguish plant species. No worries, you will not run the risk of losing yourself. The different circuits are marked and maintained.

Terms and rates

A topographic guide to the Gorges de l’Aveyron is on sale at the Tourist Office for 0.50€ .

5. VTT circuits

To visit the Gorges de l’Aveyron, what better than exploring the area by bike? Alone or in a group, the routes, like hiking, are marked and maintained.

From Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val, 15 circuits depart from the city on a positive elevation of 50 m to 1260 m. But you can also take the paths of the area of the Pays de Vaour. Its 18 circuits connect Penne to Le Riols, with positive elevations reaching 2306 m!

Terms and rates

It is possible to rent your mountain bike at the base of the Aagac 40€ day.

6. A climbing course

The site does not lack dizzy walls. Then why visit the Gorges de l’Aveyron horizontally when you can do it vertically?

Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val and the Gorges are renowned for their limestone cliffs and their climbing paths. Climbing the cliffs will also allow you to observe the rivers that touch the tracks.

But they obviously exist other climbing places such as the Roc du Gorb, the Roc d’Anglars or the Capuchin cliff.

Terms and rates

• For outdoor climbing, you have to plan between 5€ to 35€ per person ;
• On reservation only, the frame is only possible between April and October ;
• The harness, helmets and climbing slippers are provided;
• A climbing pitch is available for purchase at the Gorges Tourist Office for 12€.

7. A part of paintball

Need a dose of adrenaline? Let’s go back to the Aagac Nature Base. Paintball is one of the park's sports activities. Taking place in one of the forests of Najac, two teams compete for about 10 minutes to capture the flag of the opposing camp.

Maybe you'll come out with some bruises, but at least you'll have a smile on your lips!

Terms and rates

• Forward between 15€ and 30€ per person, depending on the age of the participant;
• The minimum age required is 8 years ;
• The marker, helmet, combination, neck protector and plastron for girls are provided by the base;
• Please also loose clothing and closed shoes.

8. A tour via ferrata

We are now talking to amateurs of strong sensations. The Gorges de l’Aveyron offer in parallel its climbing paths of via ferrata.

The perfect balance between hiking and climbing, these circuits will make you take height safely.

This escapade, through iron cables, ladders and a 100 m long zip line, will allow you to witness the beauty of the site from an unprecedented angle. But there are also other ways to admire the Gorges d’Aveyron.

Terms and rates

• An individual course will cost you 35€ ;
• Please also 20€ for the rent of the harness;
• For groups, supervision is only possible between April and October.

9. A hot-air balloon

You visited the Aveyron on foot, by bike or with a harness. But also offer a unique and unique perspective of the site!

Nothing like that to take a bowl of fresh air than a hot air balloon ride! Take a walk in the air and enjoy a view of Carladez’s historic natural heritage in the Aveyron.

Terms and rates

• For an adult, a flight will cost you 180€. For a child over 10 years old, the flight will cost 120€ ;
• Flights last on average 1 hour, for a benefit 3 hours ;
• ♪ pregnant women cannot be allowed.

10. A ULM flight

Do you still have your head in the clouds? Perfect, we're gonna stay there for a while! One of the other air activities that the Aveyron Gorges offer is a multi-axis Ultra Léger Motorized flight.

With a breathtaking view of the Gorges and the Fortress of Najac, you can pass your baptism of air with a monitor pilot. An unforgettable show that will enhance your stay.

Terms and rates

• Flights are always framed by a pilot. 1 hour will come back to you 140€with extra charge 50€ if you want to get a video;
• The minimum age is at 10 years, with parental permission for the minor;
• ♪ pregnant women and persons with reduced mobility can't fly.

11. A parachute jump

After taking advantage of the occitan sky, let us return to the firm earth. Fortunately for you, we have the ideal activity for this mission!

Jumping in parachute at more than 3000 m on the bastide Villefranchoise, is it tempting you? Offer a full view of the Gorges de l’Aveyron and admire the dizzying splendour of the site.

And don’t be afraid, a professional monitor will accompany you during your fall for new safe sensations!

Terms and rates

• For a tandem jump, you'll have to pay 250€ ;
• If you want to take photos or video with you, plan respectively 70€ and 90€ additional;
• One parental authorization is requested for minors;
• One physical condition is better for jumping.

12. A riding trip

Why visit the Gorges de l’Aveyron on foot when you could do it on horseback? A number of equestrian centers are available and offer various circuits to make you discover the region.

Equestrian hiking will delight small and large. On horseback, on a donkey or even in a carriage, climb on the back of your mount·s and let yourself be guided along the rivers of Aveyron, through its preserved landscape.

Terms and rates

• An individual horse ride will come back to you 23€ and a two-way walk 40€ ;
• Minors must be obligatoryly accompanied an adult;
• The equipment provided also allows people with motor lamp to climb to the carriage.

13. A quad ride

Want speed and adventure? Visit the Gorges de l’Aveyron in quad! To the guidance of your vehicle, roll at your own pace in the heart of forests, heritage and causses from Capelle-Balaguier.

You can admire its landscapes and share this leisure with family or friends. Just follow the guide!

Terms and rates

• An individual course can cost between 55€ to 180€ the duration of the journey;
• If you already own a quad, the route will be cheaper: between 40€ and 65€ ;
• Licence A or B and a deposit check 900€ by quad are requested.

14. A rafting activity

The Aveyron Gorges are renowned for its many rapids. If you are still looking for a strong feeling, the Aagac base has the solution for you.

Embark on a 8-person Raft or a 2-person Hot-Dog and brave safe water descents with a monitor. A good way to cross pleasure, adrenaline and discovery.

Terms and rates

• For a raft descent, plan between 25€ and 35€, depending on the duration of the journey;
• The port closed shoes is compulsory;
• Each participant must know how to swim 25 meters and immerse yourself.

15. A canyoning output

Since the popularity of canyoning, the region has become very popular for its narrow canyons. Recalls under waterfalls, natural slides and water hikes are invited to the program. Then make a canyoning out and go to discover the wonders of the underground world of Aveyron.

Terms and rates

• Canyoning explorations are divided into three thresholds: initiation, Discover and sport ;
• Plan respectively 41€, 45€ and 50€ per person ;
• The neoprene combination, helmet and shoulder harness are provided;
• 12 years and 40 kg are the minimum age and weight required. Knowing swim is mandatory.

16. A speleological expedition

Visiting the Gorges de l’Aveyron is also taking into account its depth. The site, as dizzy as it is for its limestone cliffs, also has many galleries and caves to explore.

Disconnect from the outside world by exploring vast underground networks safely. You will be accompanied by a guide that will explain the history of their formation.

Speleology adjusts at any age. Depending on your desires, the Aagac base will offer you suitable courses.

Terms and rates

• A descent per person will cost you 35€ ;
• Plan salir clothing and closed shoes ;
• Take a half day of activity with a 40-minute drive from Najac.

17. A jump to the elastic

Let's finish this guide with a flagship activity in the area. The viaduct of the Sainte-Eulalie de Cernon, in the heart of the famous Larzac, is one of the best places where to jump to the elastic in Aveyron.

To take part in the festivities, just show yourself at the foot of the bridge to register and get your ticket. Then hang tightly, take a step and jump into the void to admire the panorama offered by the viaduct.

Terms and rates

• A jump will cost you 35 to 45€ per person ;

• It is possible to get a video for 20€ ;

• Open from April to October one weekends per month and every weekend during the summer holidays.

How do I go to the Aveyron Gorges?

• Car : The site meets the main French roads. You can go there by the A10 if you come from Paris, the A55 if you come from Marseille, the E15 if you come from Lille or the A9 if you come from Montpellier;
• Train : Rodez and Aubin train stations welcome the TER Occitanie. A simple go by the Paris-Montparnasse train station will cost you 141€ ;
• Aircraft : Rodez-Aveyron Airport is available. You can also use a flight comparator like Skyscanner to find the best offer for your criteria.

If you arrive by train or by plane, we advise you to rent a car to discover the region. A more autonomous and indispensable way to explore the must-sees of the Aveyron Gorges!

Where to stay near the Aveyron Gorges?

You have the embarrassment of choice for accommodation. The Gorges offer a wide variety of accommodations, with a multitude of picturesque villages in the region. Saint-Laurent d’Olt, Saint-Chély d’Aubrac, Conques-en-Rouergue, campagnard life is only waiting for you! For their part, Rodez, Villefranche-de-Rouergue or Millau are ground-footed by passengers.

If you are looking for an atypical house in the style of the region, try host houses as the Ark of Yann Campuac or the Gite de la Fontaine Paulhe.

Are you rather a hotel? Visit the Bourran farm or the hotel Biney in Rodez, 10 km from the airport. If the doubt dwells you, don’t hesitate to use a Compare hotels to study the offer available according to your dates of stay.

Also: In which quarter house in Millau?

After following this guide, you will know how to fill your stay in the Gorges de l’Aveyron!