I love to go a-wandering …
Val-der-ri, val-der-ra …
Summer-camp children singing familiar refrains of hiking songs can still be heard throughout the plains and valleys of Aveyron.
Even though they are chanted in a singsong way, the refrains never lose their charm because they are associated with spectacular scenery and evoke everlasting memories of joy and friendship.
Take the time to discover Aveyron by taking the local and regional footpaths, or the long-distance footpaths (sentiers de Grande Randonée – GR) which cover 700 km.
In a nutshell, Aveyron is one of France’s favourite départements for walking and rambling activities.
Pilgrims taking the route to Santiago de Compostela (Saint Jacques de Compostelle) will appreciate stopping off to admire the delightful halts and scenic views, as for example at Estaing, even if they have to struggle up the steep paths under the weight of their backpacks.
Aveyron has everything to please the rambler as he walks in tranquillity through this breathtaking countryside, using the well-kept footpaths that zigzag across the countryside.
Throughout these surroundings that are covered with green vegetation, there is a closely woven network of tiny roads and paths. You can escape from the main and secondary roads, and reach all those tiny hamlets and country places that are off the beaten track.
Discover the tiny churches, so full of charm with their crosses dating back to ancient times, and early religion. Vestiges of the past include very old houses, wells, fountains, towers. This is a haven for tourists seeking fresh air and unpolluted natural surroundings, far away from the major cities or the beaches of the Riviera …
Rambling is the best way to discover all the many facets of a region, its animal and plant life by going off the beaten track and really getting to know the countryside, alone, with friends or your family.