With two regional nature parks within its borders and the Causses and Cévennes listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Aveyron is the ultimate nature destination. Like its neighbour Lozère, this department is one of the least populated in France. Humans have therefore given nature free rein to express itself. If you are looking for a natural and unspoilt destination for your next camping holiday, then Aveyron is the place for you!
Two regional nature parks
Few departments in France can boast two natural parks within their borders. Aveyron is one of them. But that’s only to be expected for a department that offers such a wide variety of landscapes from north to south. In the north, on the border with Cantal, the green landscapes of Aubrac await you, where a long tradition of livestock farming has been passed down through the generations. In the south, on the other hand, the Grands Causses offer you wild and austere expanses of fascinating beauty, where the Tarn and Dourbie rivers have carved out spectacular gorges. All these places are ideal for camping in the heart of nature.
Camping in Aubrac, a land of tradition
Aubrac is a mid-mountain region. Covering 2,500 km², this plateau is divided between forests and pastures. This renowned cattle-breeding land is a region with deeply rooted rural traditions. The most emblematic of these traditions is the transhumance, which takes place every year at the end of May. Aubrac cows are driven to the plateaus, around the burons, shepherds’ huts dotted across the plateau, where aligot, the region’s typical dish made from potatoes and Aubrac cheese, is enjoyed. The other star of Aubrac is the Laguiole knife. Thanks to the expertise of the knife-making craftsmen, the reputation of this knife has long since spread beyond the borders of Aveyron. Several workshops are open to the public, so don’t miss the opportunity to discover the secrets of how the famous Laguiole knife is made during your camping holiday in Aveyron.
Camping on the Grands Causses
The causses are high limestone plateaus that have been carved out by the Dourbie and Tarn rivers. These gorges, with their steep slopes divided between forest and surprisingly shaped rocks, contrast with the austere expanses of the causses. Larzac, Sauveterre, Noir and Méjean: these causses range between 800 and 1,000 metres in altitude. The porosity of the soil means that water seeps away without forming any rivers, creating a landscape of mineral steppes. To water the sheep that graze there, humans have had to adapt. They have built lavognes, artificial ponds designed to collect rainwater. The Grands Causses region is incredibly rich in wildlife. There are more than 200 species of birds, including griffon vultures, black vultures and Egyptian vultures. Spring is also a good time to observe orchids. There are 70 of the 160 species found in France. These include the Lady’s Slipper Orchid and the Aveyron Ophrys. The landscapes in Aveyron are spectacular. However, when hiking during your camping holiday in Aveyron, watch where you step, as Aveyron is also home to a rare variety of insects. It was here that the film Micropolis was shot. Following the film, a museum dedicated to insects was created in Saint-Léons: Microplis, the city of insects. A fascinating and fun museum that children will love.
Canoeing down the Tarn or Dourbie valleys is a delightful way to discover the magnificent landscapes of the Grands Causses Natural Park. Ask at the reception desk of your campsite in Aveyron for information on the best canoeing routes.
Aveyron, a preserved heritage
While nature is obviously the main attraction in Aveyron, man has also left his mark. With no fewer than 10 villages listed among the most beautiful villages in France, Aveyron shares with Dordogne the title of the department with the most listed villages. Najac, Estaing and Belcastel are among these beautiful medieval villages, built entirely of stone and with slate roofs. Of all of them, Conques is undoubtedly the most famous. In the heart of the Lot valley, this renowned stop on the Way of St James sees thousands of pilgrims pass through every year. Its Sainte-Foy Abbey is one of the jewels of Romanesque art in France.
The legacy of the Knights Templar
In the 12th century, during the Crusades, the Knights Templar were responsible for protecting and accompanying pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem. They founded monasteries, known as commanderies, throughout Europe. The Larzac region has five Templar cities (La Cavalerie, Le Viala-du-Pas-de-Jaux, Saint-Eulalie-de-Cernon, La Couvertoirade and Saint-Jean-d’Alcas). Of all these, La Couvertoirade is the best preserved and most spectacular. Behind its ramparts, this city has remained virtually unchanged since the 15th century.
Contemporary heritage
Although most of the traces left by humans in Aveyron date back to the Middle Ages, the contemporary era has also left its mark on the region. In order to allow the A75 motorway to cross the Tarn between the Larzac and Rouge plateaus, a bridge was built: the Millau Viaduct. This cable-stayed bridge is a structure of phenomenal dimensions (2,460 metres long and 270 metres high). Although its construction sparked much debate, it is clear that this viaduct is a real success and that, far from spoiling the landscape as was feared, it actually enhances it. In addition to offering unobstructed views of the viaduct and the Tarn valley, the Viaduct area houses an exhibition on the Millau Viaduct.
Soulages Museum: contemporary art in Aveyron
Born in Rodez, Pierre Soulages wanted his hometown to host his collections. The Soulages Museum was therefore established in Rodez in 2014. The works of the famous French painter are exhibited in a building with resolutely modern architecture. A temporary exhibition hall is dedicated to other contemporary artists such as Yves Klein, Soto, Calder, etc. For art lovers spending their holidays camping in Aveyron, this museum is a must-see.
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