Sightseeing in Rodez

Parc Régional Naturel des Grands Causses is a unique world unto its own, and is worthy as a travel destination by itself. It encompasses 94 villages, 64,000 inhabitants and 780,000 acres. The park’s namesake causses create microclimates lush with flora and fauna, protected from climates to the north and the south.

Notre Dame de Rodez is certainly the centerpiece of this lovely city. The Gothic sandstone structure towers over the rest of the buildings. Be sure to see the cathedral at night, when 500 floodlights bring the building to life.

Situated as it is in the middle of the country, it can be a delightful surprise to discover the wonderful shopping options in Rodez. Its narrow streets are lined with boutiques as well as chain stores. Its open-air market, held Wednesday and Saturday mornings and Friday afternoons, sprawls from the square in front of the cathedral and trickles onto side streets. The vendors there have wonderful plump olives, spices in all the colors of the rainbow, various produce and plants.

Chateaus of Rodez

Although France’s Loire Valley is known as “château country,” this area could have the same title in its own rights. There are numerous castles in this area, making it a wonderful destination for touring these magnificent examples of architecture. Here is just a sampling:

Château d’Estaing, Place de la Priousse, Estaing, is nestled on the Lot River.

Château et Musée des Métiers de la Pierre, in Saint Beauzely, features exhibits on rural life and local masonry.

Château de Bournazel, in Bournazel, is in a small village of 300 people.

Château de Brousse, in Brousse le Château, features a lovely castle, as well as an interesting church.

The red shutters and sandstone-colored façade make the Château de Castelnau-Pégayrolles worth a visit. This village also features a fascinating medieval water system and two lovely churches.

Other Sights of Rodez

Cité Templière de la Couvertoirade is one of the centerpiece Templar attractions of this area. The Templar order constructed a castle here, which was later fortified by the Hospitaliers. Today, the ramparts and towers are a fine example of medieval architecture. Open March through September. A second key site is the Templar village, La Cavalerie.

The Abbatiale Romane Sainte-Foy, or abbey is one of the world’s most glorious examples of Romanesque architecture, and is a key stop along the lengthy route of Santiago de Compostella. The gold statue of Sainte-Foy must be seen. The abbey and cloisters are simply stunning to behold.

Abbaye de Sylvanès is one of France’s most beloved Cistercian abbeys. Built in the 12th century, its style is transitional between Gothic and Romanesque. The vaulted cloisters are worth a visit alone. Today, the abbey is restored and hosts various events, including an international festival of religious music.

Montpellier le Vieux, in Peyreleau, is an amazing natural city formed by rocks. During prehistoric times, the formations served as shelter from the elements for animals and, perhaps, man.With its own microclimate, there is flora unique to the formations with scents that change by the hour.

Aven-Armand is a tremendous cave, among the most popular in Europe. Take the funicular 600 feet down to the immense cave below.