Circuit d'Espalion - Bozouls
Between Monts-d?Aubrac and Causse-Comtal, the Lot (formerly known as "olt") has carved out its own bed and made itself at home upstream and downstream of Espalion.
Right in the heart of the Lot Valley, Espalion is located on one of the great pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela, the GR65 (Le Puy-en-Velay-sur-Conques), of which this section and the Pont Vieux have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can delve into the unusual and fascinating history of man under the sea, with a visit to Europe?s first museum dedicated to diving suits, created as a tribute to the inventions of two Espalionnais. A short detour to the church of Perse is a must: this 11th-century Romanesque gem, built of pink sandstone, is located on the GR 65. Following the Lot upstream, don't forget to make a detour to the fortified village of Flaujac.
Then on to Saint-Côme d?Olt, a medieval village classified as one of France?s most beautiful villages, with a 16th-century church topped by a flamed bell tower. A short, shady road takes you to the Coulée de Lave (lava flow) that stretches across the hillside. This impressive basalt field, also known as the "Clapas de Thubiès", is lost in a forest of beech, oak and chestnut trees. As you return to the hamlet of Roquelaure, where the river Lot will be the focal point of this journey, don't miss the exceptional panoramic view from behind the chapel.
Return to the Causse-Comtal and make a detour to visit the small village of Rodelle on its rocky outcrop. This stopover is a reminder of one of the many little gems to be found in our département.
On to Bozouls and its unique geological feature in Aveyron, a canyon 400 m in diameter and almost 100 m deep. This geological site has given rise to the Terra-Memoria discovery area.
You reach Bessuéjouls "la clairière aux buis". Your route takes you to the remarkable little church of Saint-Pierre de Bessuéjouls. Its distinctive feature is a one-storey high chapel accessed by a staircase at the back of the nave.
Finally, back in Espalion, take time to stroll around this attractive little town.
