Circuit de Rodez
Between Rodez and Espalion, the Causse Comtal extends its vast solitudes to infinity, a domain of junipers and small tortuous oaks.
While crossing it, you will discover, hidden here and there, some curious little huts, "les cazelles", whose thick slate roofing stones have long sheltered generations of shepherds. In the bend of the villages, you will notice typical old houses with caussenarde architecture. A small detour by Bozouls is recommended, you can admire its geological site, an incredible natural curiosity. Continuing the crossing of the Causse Comtal, open your eyes! You will be able to appreciate castles and manors, reflections of a rich history, and will observe many dolmens, vestige of an ancient occupation of the place. If you wish to know more about these archaeological remains, make a stop in Montrozier to visit its departmental archaeological museum. Arriving in Laissac, famous for its weekly cattle market (one of the largest in France), your journey continues to Agen-d'Aveyron. Let yourself be surprised by the changing landscapes. Leaving the limestone soils of the Causse-Comtal, you will find the crystalline rock of the Lévezou, support of green pastures and forests. You will pass the Col d'Aujols at an altitude of 870 metres and cross part of the Palanges forest. This forest extends over 3,300 hectares and is classified as a Zone of Ecological, Faunistic and Floristic Interest (ZNIEFF). Wooded with deciduous and coniferous trees, it will offer you the surprise of a waterfall (at the entrance of Agen-d'Aveyron) and pleasant walks that will delight mushroom gatherers. Continuing on the way back, you will pass in front of the Sainte-Radegonde monument to the dead, erected in memory of the 30 hostages shot by the Germans on 17 August 1944, before reaching Onet-le-Château.
