Rodez archivos - VOLARE MAGAZINE

When July arrives and the heat sets in, Rodez invites you to look beyond its historic streets, museums and cathedral. Located in the heart of Aveyron, the city offers much more than just a cultural getaway; it is also a gateway to a summer of freshwater, green meadows, inland beaches and long afternoons by the lake.

Less than an hour’s drive from Rodez, the landscape changes pace. Stone façades give way to rolling hills, open fields, woodlands, tranquil riverbanks and expanses of water where summer unfolds at a leisurely pace. You won’t find any waves or Mediterranean sand here, but you will find swimsuits drying in the sun, children running in and out of the water, couples reading under the trees, and groups of friends moving between picnics, paddleboarding, and naps on the grass.

This refreshing side of Aveyron has a special name: Lévézou, a region of countryside and water, where green and blue dominate the landscape. There are five artificial lakes —Bages, Pont-de-Salars, La Gourde, Pareloup and Villefranche-de-Panat— spread amongst meadows, villages and highland scenery.

Lévézou, Aveyron in lake mode

The Lévézou is not your typical beach destination, and that is part of its charm. Its lakes are nestled amongst rolling hills, lush meadows and tranquil roads, as if the landscape had carved out azure oases amidst the countryside. The area is ideal for families, couples and travellers looking for a natural alternative to city breaks and busy beaches.

Here, swimming feels different. The shores may be grassy, sandy or stony, and shade comes from the trees. Around the water, there are no long seafront promenades, but rather paths, picnic tables, small harbours, campsites, nautical bases and villages where you can stop for a simple meal. It’s a slower, quieter, more rural kind of summer.

The short distances also make it easy to plan the day without complications. You can leave Rodez after breakfast, spend the day at one of the lakes, and return at sunset. Alternatively, you can extend your getaway with a night in the Lévézou region to enjoy the calm of the late afternoon and evening, when the sun sets and the water turns almost silver.

Pareloup, a small “inland sea”

The lake of Pareloup is the Lévézou’s star aquatic attraction. Stretching over 130 kilometres of shoreline, it is a true “mer intérieure”, surrounded by fields and campsites. Its size means that every traveller can find their own pace. There are beaches for swimming, areas for paddling, sunbathing spaces, fishing spots and bases for water sports. With paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, pedal boats and small craft —or simply a quiet swim— Pareloup lets you enjoy the summer without having to go to the sea.

Pont-de-Salars, family swimming and summer atmosphere

The lake of Pont-de-Salars, closer to Rodez, is a very practical option for a day trip. Located about 25 kilometres from Rodez, it forms part of the Lévézou network of lakes. One of its most popular spots is the family-friendly Les Rousselleries beach. This free beach has lifeguard supervision from 1 July to 31 August and is equipped with picnic tables, showers, a children’s play area, and free parking nearby.

Pont-de-Salars also has the feel of an everyday local summer destination rather than a spectacular one. Rather than trying to impress, it provides everything needed for a hot day: water, shade, easy activities and an immediate holiday feeling.

Villefranche-de-Panat, walking and swimming

Another of the great names in the Lévézou region is Villefranche-de-Panat, where the lake allows you to enjoy swimming, walking and water sports in a peaceful setting. Calm activities such as pedal boating, canoeing and paddleboarding can be enjoyed at Mayrac beach, while Granouillac beach also offers pedal boats and canoes for hire.

Tips for a waterside getaway

Although the atmosphere is relaxed, it is still worth preparing well for the day. In July and August, it is best to leave Rodez early if you want to park close to the swimming areas or find a good shady spot. It is also important to check in advance which beaches have lifeguard supervision and at what times, since several areas in the Lévézou offer supervised swimming in the summer months.

The basic kit is simple: a swimsuit, a light towel, sunscreen, a hat, water, something to eat, and comfortable shoes. If you are entering the water over stones or damp grass, you should also bring water shoes or sandals. For nautical activities, it is advisable to book or ask for information in advance, especially at weekends.

Rodez and the coolest side of Aveyron

Escaping to the lakes of the Lévézou from Rodez allows you to experience a different side to the French summer. It’s a place without crowds or rush, where you can enjoy freshwater instead of the sea, meadows instead of promenades, and small villages where the afternoon stretches on without anyone looking at the clock.

Rodez provides culture and history, as well as being the starting point. The Aveyron region adds the coolness with its lakes, rivers, inland beaches, walking trails, fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking and swimming in the middle of nature. Together, they offer the perfect getaway for those who want to travel in summer without sacrificing rest, but without staying cooped up in the city either.

Because sometimes the best July memories are made not on a grand beach, but on a quiet lakeshore with your feet in the water, surrounded by countryside and watching the sun slowly set over an Aveyron lake.

In the heart of rural Aveyron, Rodez appeals to travellers seeking a taste of authentic local life and slow tourism. With its narrow medieval streets, inspirational museums, gourmet markets, and scenic nature walks, this is the ideal weekend getaway to indulge in Occitanie’s lifestyle.

Rodez, the hidden gem of Aveyron

As the capital of Rouergue, Rodez is a city best explored with a relaxed pace to fully appreciate its sights and flavours. There is no hectic tourism here; instead, a way of life that invites you to reflect at every turn: strolling through a medieval square, tasting a local product or pondering a contemporary work of art. Blending heritage, gastronomy, and nature, Rodez is the perfect weekend getaway destination.

Day 1 – Saturday: local flavours and historical immersion

Saturday morning market: a delight for the senses

To kick off your stay in the best way, be sure to visit Place du Bourg on a Saturday morning. Rodez’s market day is one of the liveliest in the region, with colourful stalls, dedicated producers and tantalising aromas. Here, you can sample aligot, a smooth purée made from fresh tome cheese and potatoes; Roquefort cheese, which is not to be missed; fouace, a brioche flavoured with orange blossom; and artisanal charcuterie. This is an opportunity to connect with the soul of the Aveyron region, where each product has a story to tell.

The imposing Notre-Dame Cathedral

With its pink sandstone silhouette towering over the city, Notre-Dame de Rodez cathedral is a sight not to be missed. The structure features a flamboyant Gothic design and impresses with its size while its stained glass windows bathe the nave in a special light.

Stroll through historic streets

From here, you can explore Rodez through a maze of cobbled streets, where time simply stands still. From Place de la Cité to Place du Bourg, medieval half-timbered houses, intimate Renaissance mansions, and modest churches like Saint-Amans await you around every corner. Rue du Touat, for its part, transports visitors to the atmosphere of a bustling medieval village where one might expect to bump into artisans and troubadours.

Pick up a free copy of the “Heritage Tour” map at the tourist office and explore the treasures of the historic centre.

Lunch at the Jardin du Foirail

After this journey through history, what could be better than a picnic in the countryside at the Jardin du Foirail? This vast green space, just a stone’s throw from the historic centre, is the perfect place to enjoy market produce in relaxing surroundings. This is the essence of slow tourism: taking the time to enjoy, converse and relax.

Afternoon at the Fenaille Museum

Next on the itinerary is a visit to the Fenaille museum, home to one of Europe’s most impressive collections of menhir statues. Dating back more than 5,000 years, these mysterious prehistoric guardians protect the ancestral memory. The museum also takes visitors on a journey through Gallo-Roman and medieval art, offering a fascinating insight into the region’s rich past.

Fun for all at the Rodez bowling alley

In the evening, head to Bowling du Rouergue, an original and much loved venue among the locals. It’s more than just a bowling alley; it’s a true culinary landmark. You can sample local specialities such as tripou (a traditional tripe dish), estofinado (a dish made with dried fish), tender Aubrac beef and the unmissable aligot with sausage, all in a welcoming atmosphere. After dinner, you can round off the evening with a drink, enjoy a concert, or enjoy bowling on one of the 12 lanes. It’s a fun way to experience local life that blends tradition and modernity.

Day 2 – Sunday: modern art and natural scenery

Soulages Museum: luminous and contemporary

Sunday morning is ideal for exploring the Soulages museum, dedicated to Pierre Soulages, the “painter in black” who was born in Rodez. Built entirely from Corten steel, this innovative building sits perfectly alongside the monumental works it houses. These paintings, with their ever-changing reflections, offer a unique sensory experience. The museum also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and boasts a café-restaurant with an outdoor seating area, providing the perfect opportunity to extend your visit in a bright, stylish setting.

Local shopping and souvenirs

After taking in the art, it’s time to bring a little bit of Rodez home with you. The town’s shops and markets are brimming with local specialities, from golden fouace pastries and renowned Laguiole knives to farmhouse cheeses and jars of heat-and-serve aligot. Handcrafted creations reflecting local artistry are also on offer, providing the perfect memento of your trip.

An afternoon in the great outdoors

To top off the weekend, Rodez offers a green getaway just a stone’s throw from the city centre. Take one of the walking routes to get some fresh air and admire the beautiful Aveyron countryside:

● Berges de Layoule: this easy 5.5 km loop along the banks of the Aveyron is perfect for families and leisurely walkers.

● Trails around Rodez: signposted routes offering splendid panoramic views of the town, its red-tiled roofs, and the surrounding plateaus.

Discover a selection of walking and hiking trails at rodez-tourisme.fr

These walks embody the spirit of slow tourism, encouraging you to walk without haste, observe the landscapes, listen to the birdsong and anchor yourself in the present moment.

A lifestyle worth discovering

A weekend in Rodez is, above all, an invitation to take things slowly. Here, every step can be savoured without haste, from bustling markets to quiet museums and from medieval lanes to picturesque rural paths. Rodez combines tradition, art and cuisine in a way that is both authentic and unique, away from the crowds and the mainstream tourist trail.

So, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a contemporary art fan or simply enjoy walking in the countryside, Rodez is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. It’s the perfect place to switch off, take in the sights and embrace the slow tourism experience in the heart of Occitanie. So, succumb to temptation: Rodez is just waiting for you.

To prepare for your trip, go to: www.rodez-tourisme.fr

Rodez, in the heart of Aveyron, is best discovered slowly, at the pace of the exhibitions that grace its museums. With its blend of abstract art, antique portraits and the world of Agnès Varda, the town proves to be the ideal destination for leisurely cultural trips.

Rodez, a town to be relished at a relaxed pace

In Rodez, nobody is in a rush. Slow down and take the time to see, feel and understand this southwestern town, nestled in the heart of the Aveyron region. Historical heritage meets the soothing landscapes of the Causses, and art flourishes in museums acclaimed as cultural beacons. Rodez epitomises the spirit of slow tourism, encouraging visitors to take their time, seek out encounters with art and scenery, and leave feeling enriched by their experience.

With three major exhibitions set to captivate the city’s cultural scene, 2025 promises to be an especially exciting year. Visitors can look forward to a tribute to the discreet yet visionary artist Cosme de Scoraille, an intriguing dialogue between the Fenaille Museum and the Louvre on antique portraits, and a poetic exploration of the world of Agnès Varda at the Soulages Museum.

Cosme de Scoraille: painting for the stars

From 17 May 2025 to 8 March 2026, the Denys-Puech museum invites visitors to explore the intimate and spiritual world of Cosme de Scoraille, a painter renowned for his lyrical abstract works. His body of work, comprising more than 3,000 pieces, has long been overlooked, but now reveals itself as a mysterious constellation.

We are transported to a realm where art interacts with the cosmos through his pastels, acrylic on kraft paper, and study sketchbooks. His paintings are not demonstrative; they are open, meditative and deeply rooted in an inner quest. This exhibition, titled “I Paint for the Stars” showcases the artist’s extraordinary journey and explores his connections with notable figures of his era, including Picasso and Jean Dubuffet.

With its intimate atmosphere, free admission and richly illustrated catalogue, this exhibition is a must-see for anyone wanting to experience Rodez in a different light in the serene setting of a museum dedicated to visionary artists who are often underrepresented.

Visages: the art of ancient portraiture

An extraordinary journey through time awaits visitors to the Fenaille museum from 7 June to 2 November 2025. The exhibition “Visages” (Faces) is the result of an exceptional collaboration with the Louvre Museum and features nearly sixty masterpieces of Greek and Roman portraiture.

The faces of Augustus, Hadrian, Alexander the Great and Homer are brought vividly to life throughout the rooms. These portraits, whether depicting images of power, ritual offerings or anonymous individuals, question our relationship with images and identity. Neither simple reflections nor photographs, they exemplify the power of artistic creation.

This echo is all the more powerful in Rodez, where the Fenaille museum already houses a remarkable collection of menhir statues, the earliest representations of humans in Western Europe. The past and present are linked together in a fascinating way that creates a continuous narrative. This exhibition is more than just a window onto antiquity; it invites visitors to reflect on the enduring nature of the human face in art, from Neolithic stone carvings to contemporary images.

Agnès Varda: the sea at the Soulages museum

The summer of 2025 will see Rodez play host to an icon of cinema and contemporary art: Agnès Varda. The Soulages museum is dedicating an ambitious exhibition to her, entitled “Je suis curieuse. Point” (I’m curious. Period), from 28 June 2025 to 4 January 2026.

Varda lived through her era with an insatiable curiosity, as a photographer, filmmaker, visual artist and committed feminist. The exhibition brings together over a hundred works: unpublished photographs, film installations, objects and her “cinema huts”. She draws us into her favourite topics –the Mediterranean, ports, the sea and beach huts– but she also shares her struggles, dreams and imagination with us.

Throughout this journey, the museum pays tribute to the friendship between Varda and Pierre Soulages, establishing a poetic dialogue between their respective artistic universes. As if watching a film, visitors are carried from one room to the next, discovering the story of a life that constantly pulls the filmmaker back to the sea. The exhibition catalogue, “Les rêveries d’Agnès” (Agnès’s reveries), expands on this emotional journey.

Slow tourism in Rodez: more than just a visit, an experience

These three exhibitions are not isolated events; they reflect the city’s vibrant culture, which offers visitors a timeless experience. Strolling through narrow medieval streets, admiring the Gothic cathedral, sitting down at a café terrace at the end of a visit: Rodez invites you to savour every moment.

Slow tourism means taking the time to meet the locals: a passionate guide, a restaurant owner who introduces you to the flavours of Aveyron, or a resident who shows you their favourite sunset spot. In Rodez, it’s not just about “doing” museums; it’s about experiencing them, inhabiting them and connecting with them at your own pace.

An invitation to experience cultural escapism

Rodez might not be the first city that springs to mind for a cultural break, and that’s exactly what makes it so charming. There are no endless queues or crowded museums here: the experience remains intimate and on a human scale.

The Cosme de Scoraille exhibition at the Denys-Puech museum, the “Visages” exhibition at the Fenaille museum, and the tribute to Agnès Varda at the Soulages museum will offer a glimpse into unique and complementary worlds throughout 2025. Three different ways to talk about humanity: the stars, faces, and the sea.

So why not give in to Rodez’s appeal? Take time to slow down, to reflect, to dream. Allow art to be your guide as you discover a city that can be savoured like a living work of art.

To prepare for your trip, go to: www.rodez-tourisme.fr

Head to Rodez for a weekend or a holiday where you can get away from it all. Welcome to Aveyron, a hidden gem in the South of France where unforgettable experiences await you.

Whether you’re looking for culture, gastronomy, crafts or outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. There’s nature all around you, where you can recharge your batteries and have fun at the same time. With family, friends or your romantic partner, you’ll never be bored in Aveyron!

Reason 1: Rendezvous with culture and modern art in Rodez

Rodez is a city of contrasts, where the traditional meets the contemporary. Take a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets on your way to the Soulages Museum, where you’ll discover the world’s largest collection of works by Pierre Soulages, famous for his abstract art and “outre noir”. Next, let yourself be amazed by the majestic Notre-Dame de Rodez cathedral, a jewel of Gothic heritage. Take a break between visits in one of the many shops to pick up some original souvenirs with the “Fabriqué en Aveyron” label. And before you leave, don’t forget to sample the region’s produce at one of the local farmers’ markets or in one of the city’s many restaurants. Or why not rent an electric bike and tour the nearby countryside, where you can combine nature and discovery?

Reason 2: Conques, one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France

After visiting the Soulages Museum, you’ll be tempted to see the stained glass windows at Conques Abbey, the work of Pierre Soulages. This village, classified as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France,” will immediately transport you into another realm. The exceptional and wonderfully preserved Romanesque heritage, its wealth of treasures and its cultural attractions are sure to amaze you.

Conques AVEYRON viewed from the Bancarel belvedere — Conques viewed from the Bancarel belvedere

Follow the picturesque streets, discover the treasures of the abbey and take part in the cultural events that bring this historic site to life. If you enjoy hiking, follow the Camino de Compostela for stunning views of the village and the surrounding countryside. On the way, you can make a detour to the Salles-la-Source waterfall, an impressive spectacle of nature.

Reason 3: The Millau Viaduct, the world’s tallest bridge

A remarkable feat of architecture and engineering, the highest viaduct in the world is a must-see in the Aveyron region, and is famous the world over. You can admire it from all angles and at close quarters from the Millau Viaduct service area, and marvel at the sheer scale of this gigantic work of art. For a different perspective, head to the troglodyte village of Peyre, listed as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France,” where you can enjoy a beer or local drink while taking in the view of the viaduct. You can also paddle under the viaduct in a canoe or take a boat trip on the River Tarn. And of course you can’t miss it from Millau, the town that gives this marvel its name.

Reason 4: Millau, the glove and outdoor sports capital

In Millau, you can visit the master glove-makers who make items for French haute couture houses and treat yourself to some fine gloves, just like the world’s top celebrities!

Millau is also a magnet for outdoor sports fanatics. Mountain biking, cycling, canoeing, paragliding, hiking, via ferrata, rock climbing… Just a stone’s throw from the town, thrill seekers will be spoilt for choice in breathtaking natural surroundings! It’s no surprise that Millau hosts the Natural Games extreme sports festival every year!

Reason 5: Local cuisine to stimulate the senses

Gastronomy is a serious business in Aveyron, and you’ll find it everywhere! We are fortunate to have access to local produce at unbeatable prices. From Michelin-starred dining to traditional inns and farmers’ markets, you can savour specialities you won’t find anywhere else. Aligot potatoes and cheese, farçous pancakes, estofinado stockfish, cheese soup, rissoles, fouace brioches and cake baked on the spit are just a few of the many specialities that will delight your taste buds.

Brought to life by the chefs and their teams, each dish is a tribute to local produce. For a truly immersive experience, you can book a table at a buron in Aubrac to taste some traditional aligot in an authentic setting. Alternatively, take a tour of a Roquefort cheese cellar, followed by a tasting of the king of cheeses!

Reason 6: Recharge your batteries in Aubrac’s vast natural landscapes

A short drive from Rodez, the Aubrac plateau opens up its vast, almost Scottish-like expanses to you, perfect for a complete break. The key words here are serenity, peacefulness and clean air. Whether you’re a walker or just a lover of stunning scenery, the Aubrac region is the perfect place to recharge your batteries.

For people who have experienced the Aubrac, the word that most often comes to mind is “serenity.”

A paradise for hikers of all levels, it’s also a region steeped in tradition, where you can enjoy an authentic plate of aligot in a buron or take part in a summer village fete. You will also come across the magnificent Aubrac cows on your trails, on their way to pasture or on a farm visit. You can enjoy an authentic, natural break away from the frenetic pace of the city.

A must: learn all about the famous Laguiole knife on a tour of the local foundries.

Reason 7: Local expertise and excellence

Aveyron is a land of artisans, where traditional skills have been handed down from generation to generation. You can find genuine Laguiole knives in the beautiful shops around Rodez or by visiting the workshops in the village of Laguiole, where you can learn all about how they are made and take home a unique creation.

You can also visit the master glovemakers and buy a pair of Millau gloves –often worn by many famous film stars and singers– as an addition to your winter wardrobe.

In addition to these iconic examples of Aveyron expertise, many other craftsmen and designers invite you to discover their exceptional skills. Look out for the “Made in Aveyron” label, a guarantee of authenticity and quality.

Reason 8: Going green

From the Larzac plateau to the Aveyron Gorges and the Lakes of Lévézou and Aubrac, Aveyron boasts a wide variety of landscapes. There’s something different in every corner of the region, all linked to the great outdoors. Discover the rich and varied fauna and flora and the unexpected natural beauty of sites such as the Rougier de Camarès, with its red soil, and the spectacular Canyon de Bozouls gorge, a geological curiosity. Get ready for a change of scenery at every turn!

Reason 9: A wide variety of outdoor activities

If you’re a sports enthusiast, Aveyron is the ideal place to play. For runners and cyclists, there are plenty of itineraries to choose from, although there is no asphalt here, only greenery, either on the trails of the Marcillac valley or on the mountain bike routes through the forests, valleys and limestone plateaux. If you want to get your adrenaline pumping, there’s also via ferrata, paragliding and bungee jumping.

Mountain biking in Rougier de Camarès, Aveyron

Reason 10: Outstanding historical and architectural heritage

The Aveyron region boasts a large number of historical monuments that bear witness to its rich past. Explore Conques Abbey, the château of Najac and the many ancient stone dolmens scattered around the region. Take a journey through history by visiting one of the many châteaux or museums. Aveyron is one of the départements with the highest number of villages listed as “Most Beautiful Villages in France”, but you will certainly be impressed by the Templar sites of Larzac, such as La Couvertoirade, or the fortified Bastides of Villefranche-de-Rouergue.

Did you know that the limestone plateaux of Larzac are a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Reason 11: Get into the spirit of the local festivals and traditions

Aveyron takes great pride in its traditions, with countless village festivals, fairs and cultural events throughout the year, giving visitors the opportunity to experience local culture. Enjoy a village fete, taste tripous for breakfast or follow the Aubrac cows on the seasonal cattle drive. Music festivals, from classical to jazz and rock, also mark the rhythm of the region’s cultural life. And if you’re a sports fan, you can’t miss events such as the Eiffage Millau Viaduct Race or the Roc Laissagais. All this in a friendly atmosphere surrounded by nature!

Reason 12: A genuine, warm welcome

You’ll be greeted with a smile wherever you go, from markets to village festivals and shops. Here, a friendly atmosphere is second nature. The people of Aveyron are very proud of their region and are happy to share their secrets and tips to make your stay unforgettable. Let them guide you and enjoy some truly authentic moments, far from the beaten track.

See you soon in Rodez and Aveyron!

Nestled in the heart of Occitania, in Aveyron, Rodez is a fascinating destination that offers a perfect blend of historical heritage, natural beauty and culinary delights.

Step back in time with a visit to the magnificent cathedral of Notre Dame de Rodez and the Soulages museum, dedicated to contemporary art.

Explore Rodez’s pretty medieval lanes, do some shopping and sample local delicacies such as Aligot in one of the town’s many restaurants or at the weekly markets.

Outdoor sports enthusiasts are guaranteed not to be left behind! The countryside is just five minutes away, where you can enjoy a bike ride or hike in the midst of a lush natural setting.

Not far from Rodez, you’ll find the mighty Millau Viaduct, the highest bridge in the world, and the picturesque village of Conques, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, just beckoning you for unforgettable adventures. Whether you love culture, nature or food, Rodez and its surroundings promise a holiday full of discoveries and wonders.