Lakes of Lévézou

The Plateau du Lévézou is a conservation area at the centre of Aveyron, where five artificial lakes have replaced fields : Bages, Pont-de-Salars, La Gourde, Pareloup and Villefranche-de-Panat. Come and have fun in, on and by the water ! Go swimming from beaches of sand or grass, go predator fishing and try various water sports. Walk or go mountain biking with family or friends in the numerous deciduous and evergreen forests in the area, where you can also go mushroom picking at certain times of the year  !

See life on a much smaller scale and discover the world of insects at Micropolis, St Léon. The village also houses the birthplace of the famous entomologist, J.H. Fabre.

Visit the castles in the area, climb up to the statue of the Vierge des Lacs for a stunning 360° panorama and explore the unique, fragile ecosystem of the Tourbière des Rauzes (peatbog) along the path which takes you close to the Highland cattle which graze there.

The hills and lakes of Lévézou – an outdoor destination

The area of Monts et Lacs du Lévézou is is above all an outdoor destination and a favourite spot for water sports like sailing, jet skiing, rowing and kite-surfing. Beach lovers can enjoy 130km of lakeside beaches, all with lifeguards and sports and recreational facilities. Take a boat trip to discover the history and secrets of the lake. The Sentier de Villefranche de Panat is a path which runs around the lake for 10km. It is ideal for walking, cycling, roller skating, for scooters and pushchairs ! All along the way, the Tour de Peyrebrune (tower) peeps out from its rocky peak overlooking the lake.

Lévézou is essentially an agricultural area and many of its farmers welcome you to their farms to show you around and present their local produce (meat, dairy ice cream, cheese, etc.).

Explore St Georges de Camboulas and its church at the end of a lane bordered by astonishing sculptures, and numerous other churches steeped in history including Saint Agnans, St Amans Du Ram and Bouloc. The amazing creative firm, Vibal, will enchant you with its wrought iron sculptures. Enjoy the festive atmosphere of the Fête des Estivants at Arvieu or at Mac d’Oc, and the Festival Folklorique International du Rouergue. The sporting fun days on the lakeside beaches during the « Ca Déborde » festival features lectures, scientific workshops, shows, water games and lots more. In July Ségur holds its well-known sheepdog trials. Local restaurants and markets give pride of place to ‘tripous’, snails and farçous and make sure you try Régalou, a sourdough bread which tastes of grilled hazelnuts, 100% Aveyron : the wheat is grown on the Lévézou, ground by local millers and the bread is made by local bakers. Bon appétit !