Highlights of the Aveyron Gorge

The Aveyron Gorge and surrounding area The Aveyron River runs from east of Rodez through to Montauban, where it joins the Tarn River, which in turn joins the Garonne River and so through to the Atlantic Sea at Bordeaux. The section from just north of Najac to Bruniquel, known as the ‘Gorges de l’Aveyron’ is particularly attractive. The scenery is dramatic in places and there are many super riverside villages to visit. However this sort of touring is most likely not the No. 1 choice of your average 6-16 year old, so if exploring this lovely area is high on your list of ‘must sees’, then some concessions need to made for the children.
*Canoeing* This is possible with a starting point of either St.Antonin-Noble-Val or Cazals (both on D115). However, here the Aveyron River, while very spectacular as it passes through the gorge is quite fast flowing and is not for the novice. You would be advised to check the state of the river/rapids before setting off. If you are holidaying in the area the canoeing option run by ‘Rand’Eau’ on the nearby Garonne River may be a better one. More info on canoeing...	*Bruniquel* The village of Bruniquel is classified as ‘one of the most beautiful villages of France’ and indeed its setting high up on the cliffs above the Aveyron River is dramatic. The Medieval château dominates the surrounding area, perched as it is on the precipitous rockface. Architecturally the château is split into two parts – the ‘old’ and the ‘new’ and the whole building has undergone a major restauration programme. Visits to the château (available all day, every day in July and August) can be unaccompanied or guided. The unaccompanied visit is €2.50 for adults and €1.50 for children over 5. The village is home to a number of artisans who can be visited as you wend your way through the maze of narrow streets to the château.
*Penne* Much smaller than Bruniquel, Penne is worth a quick visit to see the ruined château which seems to literally cling to the rockface.
*St. Antonin-Noble-Val* St. Antonin is a pretty medieval town on the banks of the River Aveyron that may look familiar to those who saw the recent 2002 Charlotte Gray film as much of the filmimg took place here.	*Najac* Situated within a large meander of the Aveyron River on the D39 south of Villefranche-de-Rouergue, Najac and its château is perhaps one of the most atmospheric villages of the region. The views from the main town square looking westwards along the rocky outcrop on which the town is built are incredibly photogenic and the walk to the château will be remembered for years to come. The whole town is worth visiting as not only are there lots of shops (that the children seem to love) but there are also several first-class restaurants.