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Aveyron

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About Aveyron

A peaceful rural department in southwestern France, Aveyron is a less well-known destination than nearby Hérault, Tarn or the Lot. If you’re dreaming of picturesque hiking and cycling trails, or tucking in to terrific cheese and wine, however, Aveyron will be a sure-fire hit. Named for the Aveyron River which has carved its way through deep gorges and around high plateaus, this is a region of dramatic landscapes and pint-sized communities perched on riverbanks of steep outcrops. Accommodation options are scattered through towns, villages and the countryside, with the best places to stay in Aveyron offering a warm welcome and heaps of period charm.

Aveyron’s largest hub is Rodez, famed for the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the stark, ultra-modern Musée Soulages. It’s also a brilliant base for keen foodies, who will delight in exploring the farmers’ markets, restaurants and table d’hôtes. Conques is another appealing destination, home to the splendid Abbatiale Sainte-Foy de Conques and a converted mill housing a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Many visitors to Aveyron are looking to follow striking trails on foot, horseback or two wheels, or to paddle through the clear waters of the region’s rivers. Whilst outdoorsy adventures may be your main focus, don’t miss popping in to lovely villages — Belcastel, Brousse-le-Chateâu and Estaing included — or admiring unusual sights such as the Commanderie Templière in Sainte-Eulalie-de-Cernon and the vastly more modern Millau Viaduct on your travels. However don't forget to book well ahead if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in the Aveyron during the peak summer months; despite its off-the-beaten-track feel, the top hotels and B&Bs will fill up fast.

The Best Places to Stay in Aveyron

For an Intimate B&B

  • La Singulière offers four individually decorated rooms in a striking stone house. Owned and run by a welcoming couple — one of whom is an acclaimed interior designer — this is a laid-back haven of mismatched layering and timeless charm. Relax in the garden, enjoy picnics and table d'hôtes dinners and explore the area. For couples or families.
  • La Ferme de Bourran is a smart, seven-bedroom B&B close to Rodez. Pick this place for the contemporary interiors and the wealth of activities, including table tennis, board games and badminton. Well-suited to couples, families and business travellers. Also a good venue for private events.

For Foodies

  • Le Moulin de Conques is a former chestnut and walnut flour mill on the Dourdou River. Owned by the Busset family for almost 25 years, it has been lovingly transformed into a chic, ten-bedroom hotel with beautiful valley views from modern rooms with private balconies. The big draw is Hervé Busset's Michelin-starred restaurant, where locally grown and foraged ingredients form creative dishes paired with wonderful wines. Superb.

For a Charming Château

  • Le Château de Labro, just a few minutes north of Rodez, is a beautiful 17th-century property with romantic rooms, suites and a treehouse. An enormous swimming pool, sumptuous spa and gastronomic restaurant complete the picture. A blissful rural escape, within easy reach of hiking and cycling opportunities.
  • Le Château de la Sevayrie is a magnificent pinkish stone castle with three period guestrooms. Interiors feature antique tapestries, terracotta-tiled floors and quirky details. There's a heated pool, glorious rural views and heaps of history: this is one of the oldest houses in the south of France. For heritage lovers and romantics.
  • Le Château de Canac is a stunning, family-owned residence with just three guestrooms. Built in the 15th and 16th Centuries and set within impressive parkland, the château is just on the edge of Rodez. Expect elegant bedrooms bedecked with chandeliers and historic portraits, generous breakfasts and three-course table d'hôtes dinners. An intimate gem.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to Rodez-Aveyron Airport and continue to your destination by bus or car. Alternatively, travel by train from Toulouse to villages in Aveyron in less than three hours.
  • Aveyron is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Visit between May and September for temperatures ranging from 20°C - 26°C, although peak summer — during the school holidays — can be very busy. For fewer crowds and great hotel deals, travel in early May or late September.

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Best Hotels in Aveyron

  • La Ferme de Bourran Rodez, Aveyron 7 rooms from CA$160

    Sights nearby  -  Aveyron’s nicest villages Belcastel, Conques, Sauveterre de Rouergue.
    Great walks  -  Good for walkers.
    Air conditioningGardenParking
    Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel

    A Four Star manor house in the town centre of Rodez. Plenty of on site activities perfect for families; table tennis, board games, badminton. Contemporary chic rooms with lots of natural light, all the mod cons, and gourmet room service. Large garden, terrace, and pretty villages to discover. See More

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  • Chateau de Labro Rodez (Aveyron) 15 rooms from CA$162

    Romantic Break  -  Stunning surroundings and grand architecture.
    Wine tasting  -  The chateau has its own working vineyard.
    Views  -  Lovely valley views.
    Restaurant  -  The restaurant specialises in French cuisine and serves dinner only.
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Michelin Travel

    A beautiful 17th century chateau set in stunning parklands and vineyards. Lovely bedrooms, a treehouse with a chandelier, and an apartment for two, each extremely luxurious. Excellent French cuisine, an enormous swimming pool, and spa facilities. Very romantic, gourmet. See More

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  • Le Moulin de Conques Conques, Aveyron 10 rooms from CA$189

    Foodies  -  Enjoy Michelin-starred dining at La Table d'Herve Busset. Stunning dishes incorporating wild flowers and plants foraged daily.
    Romantic Break  -  Enjoy the chic pool area, designer rooms, excellent French cuisine, and miles of cycle routes to enjoy with a picnic
    Great walks  -  Along the route of Treasure of Sainte-Foy of Conques
    Local markets  -  In Marcillac every Thursday
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel

    A chic hotel in a former mill on the Dourdou River. Contemporary rooms features designer furniture and river views from private balconies. Chef-owner Hervé Busset creates Michelin-starred cuisine using local flora, and there's an outdoor pool, sun-drenched terraces and pretty gardens. Glorious. See More

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  • La Singuliere Aveyron 4 rooms from CA$176

    Local exploring  -  Lots to see in the beautiful surrounding countryside, and guests have access to bicycles to explore
    Sights nearby  -  The Millau Viaduct (the highest in the world), Notre Dame Cathedral in Rodez and L'Aven Armand are all in driving distance
    Great walks  -  There are many hiking trails in the nearby forests and hills of the region
    Kayaking  -  The impressive Les Gorges du Tarn can be explored on kayaks
    GardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A charming country house B&B surrounded by picturesque fields and woods. Interiors combine rustic charm and elegance, with cosy fireplaces, wooden beams, antiques and tasteful furnishings. Breakfast is provided and hearty set menu dinners are available on request. A stylish yet very homely stay. See More

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  • Chateau de Canac Rodez (12850 Onet-le-Château) 3 rooms from CA$249

    Local exploring  -  Located at the gateway of Rodez, Château de Canac is a perfect place to visit the Aveyron region and its many sights
    Sights nearby  -  The Viaduct of Millau, the highest viaduct in the world, is worth checking out; in Rodez, visit Notre Dame Cathedral
    Great walks  -  There are many hiking trails in the nearby forests and in the Marcillac vineyards
    Restrictions on children
    GardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A lovely chateau set in the medieval town of Rodez with pretty grounds and grand interiors featuring mahogany panelling and opulent fireplaces. Rooms are furnished in a period style with antiques, elaborate bedsteads, claw-foot baths and wonderful views. A characterful spot for a rural break. See More

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  • Chateau de la Servayrie Aveyron 3 rooms from CA$263

    Country Escape  -  A tranquil and majestic spot to unwind in picturesque countryside.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Albi to admire the Berbie Palace, cathedral and bridge.
    Great walks  -  Take long scenic walks starting straight from the property.
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Chambres d’hôtes de Charme CHC

    A majestic chateau boasting the title as one of the oldest houses in the south of France. Interiors are brimming with character featuring open fireplaces, tapestries and packed full of antiques. Sumptuous breakfasts are served, there's a heated outdoor pool and plenty to discover in the region. See More

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