Dolmens walking tour

Saint-Affrique

Dolmens walking tour

History and heritage

Panorama

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This loop circuit which is one of the longest hiking route in Southern Aveyron runs across the Saint-Affrique frontal Causse and leads you from dolmen to dolmen allowing you to explore some remains of human settlements dating back to the Neolithic period.

Once across the Sorgues river in Saint-Affrique, go hiking in the footsteps of our ancestors and crisscross a land which has a high concentration of megaliths. Six dolmens, Neolithic sepulchral chambers mark this journey into the past: dolmens of Touloupy, Boussac East, Boussac West, Crassous Puech, Ibilié, and finally the most majestic: the listed dolmen of Tiergues.

6 points of interest

Dolmen

Touloupy dolmen

This dolmen is situated 300 m North of Touloupy farm, up a hillside, atop a small plateau (private property). It is a fine specimen of a simple dolmen with no remaining headstone and an estimated tumulus that had a diameter of 4 m, now destroyed by farming. The current farmers and landowners have re-erected this dolmen.

History and heritage

Boussac chapel

St Martin’s chapel dates back to the 10th century, and was the main church of the parish of Boussac. It is located on top of a mound which is 650 m high and was renovated in 1999 by a local association. Once a year, around August 15, an open air mass is celebrated, gathering between 200 to 300 parishioners and friends.

Archeology

Boussac dolmen

This dolmen is still surrounded by large stones that form a tumulus. The framework has remained complete with 3.5 metre high orthostats (sidestones) and a thick flat capstone weighing approximately 19 tons.

It would have been erected some 4500 years ago.

The clearing works were carried out during May 2015 with the assistance of the SARAC

Dolmen

Crassous dolmen

This dolmen which can be seen from the road is one of the dolmens that is worth making a detour to visit. It is nicknamed l’Ercoule owing to an old legend that the demigod Hercules, known for his superhuman strength, must have built this burial chamber.

Dolmen

Tiergues dolmen

Listed as a historical monument, the Tiergues dolmen is part of the 20 or so dolmens which have been recorded in the area, some of them being poorly-preserved. The excavations of these megaliths were carried out by Emile Cartailhac during the 20th century and today their artefacts are scattered throughout Midi- Pyrennées (Rodez, Toulouse…)

History and heritage

Counts of Caylus’ Castle

This rock was used as the bedrock for the building of the Counts of Caylus’ Castle of which nothing remains today

The castle was destroyed in retaliation of Count of Caylus’ rebellion against his overlord Raymond VII, count of Toulouse, marquis of Provence and of Gothie.

Description

From the carpark, walk along the Pont-Neuf which spans the river Sorgues. Just after the bridge turn left at a hairpin bend to join the right bank of the Sorgues. Turn right to walk up an ascending trail "la Carrierasse" that leads to a narrower path rising up the mountain side called "travers des Cazes". Join the tarred road.
After the Escarbassols, leave the road and turn right, then left on a dirt road. Make your way through the undergrowth following a northwest direction. Walk down towards the Riviéral ravine and continue on by climbing over a fence where you will find a wide trail with a hairpin bend. Keep going uphill towards the plateau along a hedge bordering a steep field. Join a service road and reach a junction. Turn to your right to reach the chapel.
Retrace your way back to the road that leads to Boussac. Turn to the right, then first left and follow a dirt road for 1.5 km.
Join the road which leads to Boussac. When you get to the intersection with the Nougayrolles road take the path opposite lined with box trees which leads to the fourth dolmen, the walk there and back takes less than fifteen minutes. Retrace your steps and take the road back towards Crassous. Just a little before the quarry, notice a well preserved dolmen to your right.
At the entrance of the hamlet, leave the road and follow a stony trail to the left that runs between some houses. Wind your way down a twisting path and join the D 50 then the D 250 roads. Keep walking on this road for 250m and walk to the left through a “Buissière” which runs parallel to the road. Take a Causse pathway that first connects to the road, then leads to the Baldassé cross. Carry on this path Eastward up to the Tiergues dolmen.
Follow the trail to the southwest running between meadows and thickets to meet a “buissière”. Carry on along this trail, then on a descending path through the Gardies ravine. Join the trail that connects Saint-Affrique to Tiergues.
Walk to the right along the Nougayrolles ravine. Pass a sheepfold, then head straight on up to a junction with the path coming from ridges.
Walk down towards the rocher de Caylus, pass around a rocky outcrop that leads to the road. Find a track to the left, then a narrow path overlooking the D 993. Join the road and retrace your way back to the town centre.

Take care when fording the brook and climbing over the fence.

Departure : Foch square

Arrival : Foch square

Towns crossed : Saint-Affrique, Saint-Rome-de-Tarn

Recommandations

Box tree moths are active from May to October. During the caterpillar phase, they feed on the leaves of box trees. They crawl down trees and move on long silken threads, although these threads are annoying when hiking they do not pose any health risk

Information desks

Avenue de Lauras, 12250 Roquefort/Soulzon

http://www.roquefort-tourisme.fr/

contact@roquefort-tourisme.fr

0565585600

Situated in the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park, the cheese village of Roquefort stretches on the hillside over the famous scree of the Combalou Rock, in southern Larzac. The village is at an elevation of 630 m and has 700 inhabitants.

OPENING PERIODS:

The Tourist Office is open all year round:

In July and August, Monday to Saturday: 9.30 to 18.30, Sunday: 10.00 to 17.00.
April, May, June, September, October; Monday to Saturday: 9.30 to 12.15 & 13.00 to 17.30, closed on Sunday.
January, February, November, December; Monday to Friday: 9.30 to 12.15 & 13.00 to 17.00, closed on Saturday and Sunday.

Find out more

Transport

Travel by bus or train: https://lio.laregion.fr/

Carpooling : BlaBlaCar, Rézo Pouce, Mobicoop, Idvroom, LaRoueVerte, Roulez malin

Access and parking

Saint-Affrique is situated on the RD 999 road axis which links Millau to Albi.

Parking :

Foch square or Leclerc square

More information

Association Les Cardabelles

Source

Las Cardabelleshttp://lascardabelas.com/

Report a problem or an error

If you have found an error on this page or if you have noticed any problems during your hike, please report them to us here:

Close by

Where to eat ?

Where to sleep ?

Traditional catering or cafeteria-style for groups. Bar with terrace. Outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre. 3 meeting rooms with accommodating 15 to 150 people.

COVID 19 MEASURES

The safety of our clients and our staff is priority number one. In response to the coronavirus disease, we have taken additional health and safety measures to ensure our guests security.

We have strengthened our cleaning team and increased the frequency of disinfection of bedrooms, common areas, hotel private areas and especially areas and facilities used by everyone (entrance hall, lifts (by now unauthorised use), door handles, toilets, Reception Hall, room access cards and others).

• The staff is currently trained to prevent the spread of the coronavirus by means of new cleaning and disinfection techniques appropriate for today's conditions.

• We have provided our employees with personal protective equipment.

• We use specifically recommended cleaning products for the disinfection against COVID 19.

• The storey's staff will not carry out the daily cleaning in occupied rooms to prevent anyone to entering your room.

• Change of bathroom linen will be available at the Reception if needed.

• Alcohol-based disinfectant hand gel is available to our clients in the Reception Hall and in each floor.

• Your access badge will be disinfected and placed in an envelope. Upon your leaving, please put it in the box provided for this purpose, in the Reception Hall.

• A reminder of the appropriate physical distancing measures is displayed in the Reception Hall and on each floor.

• We have implemented directional floor marking in the Reception Hall and a one-way system has been put in place on each floor.

• We ensure that clients maintain a safe distance from each other.

We will continue to make sure that cleanliness and hygiene are our top priorities throughout all procedures and thank you for respecting the physical distancing measures (1.5 m).

We thank you, for the trust you put in us and wish you a pleasant stay with us!

Where to eat ?

Where to sleep ?

What to see

DOLMENS TOUR

Four stages will allow you to locate:

-Tiergues dolmen

-Fontcouverte dolmen

-Crassous dolmen

-Saint-Martin de Boussac chapel and its stunning scenic view.

How to obtain this tour?

-download the pdf file below

-or go to he Tourist office, you will be given the leaflet

Where to sleep ?

Where to eat ?

Enjoy outstanding local food prepared with Roquefort and served in a trendy and refined setting. The Chef is dedicated to offering you high quality cuisine made with Aveyron products. Join us for a nice time in our restaurant.

What to see

Puppet Museum

The Museum displays a new exhibition: « Bande de Guignols »:

You will learn about Guignol who was born out of poverty and thirsting for justice. You will meet his ancestors and his cousins, Polichinelle, Punch, together with other « Guignols », all of which the major 19th century upheavals have given rise to throughout the European continent.

Compulsory wearing of a mask

Where to eat ?

Our cooking gives preference to the home made food which emphasizes our local aveyronnais quality produce. Thus, you may treat yourself to the roquefort trilogy, the aveyronnais veal with balsamic sauce and lamb shoulder with aligot.

Where to sleep ?

Free garage for bikes or motorbikes.

What to see

Enjoy a digital walking tour in Saint-Affrique

Surrounded by seven hills, Saint-Affrique is located along the banks of the Sorgues, in the heart of the frontal causses. From the Middle-Ages to the industrial era, History has left its mark on the town through built heritage and more subtle evidences. During your stroll you'll be able to unravel the Historical past of the town. Saint-Affrique which is set in a rural environment is rich in traditions of inventiveness and resistance and has been able to preserve its vitality! Saint-Affrique with its kind nickname “la Villote” (small town) is receiving you with great affection. Welcome to you!

Free application « Balades des Grands Causses » available on iOS or Android

Duration of tour: 1h30 – 2h

What to see

A WALKING TOUR INTO TOWN

ALL YEAR ROUND: Ask for the leaflet at the reception desk of the Tourist Office, it will enable you to enjoy the visit by yourself and at your own pace!

Where to sleep ?

5 rooms from 16 to 35 m2. Table d'hôtes with regional cooking and garden vegetables in season.

« Trekking experience »

This track, which is over 180 m long, comprises a series of challenging humps and turns.

The name of this track featuring raised turns and humps refers to the “bending-pushing” movements carried out on the bike through the combined action of legs and arms. This pumping action performed on hollows and humps allows the cyclist to gain speed without pedaling.

This facility is available with free access and is adapted to all levels of proficiency, from young children with their balance bikes to the most experienced riders.

This track is part of a plan aimed at the development of urban sporting activities in relation to the green lane.

A 4 km ride along the green lane towards Vabres l‘Abbaye will allow biking enthusiasts to test their skills and challenge their balance on another site: the Vabres l'Abbaye skatepark situated in the park of the bishop's palace.

Safety rule: To avoid collisions between riders, compliance with the direction of the traffic is compulsory, as is the wearing of a helmet for all users. Children under 10 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Pumptrack is not under supervision and regulations must be read prior to use.

Where to sleep ?

Cap hotel complex

Traditional restaurant or cafeteria. Bar with terrace. Outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, free Wifi access at the hotel bar

Where to eat ?

Home-made cooking based on local produce (meat, fruits and vegetables). Meat and vegan options available.
Booking is advised. The table du Lieu-Dit also organises evening meals on booking, we can also bake you cakes and wedding cakes.

« Trekking experience »

THE MUNICIPAL EQUESTRIAN CENTRE ST-AFFRIQUE

You will find high quality infrastructure comprising two 40m x 20m indoor riding rings, two 80m x 40m outdoor jumping arenas. Horses suitable for every level of rider are available, and all lessons are supervised by 2 instructors and 5 monitors. During school vacation period the equestrian centre provides training courses from beginners to experienced riders. Short rides and long treks are also organized during July and August by the Rial leisure center.
All the supervisory staff are qualified instructors.

Wath to do

La Gravière outdoor leisure base

During the summer season, discover Saint-Affrique Plage and enjoy the paddling area and the sandy beach which are set on the river Sorgues banks.
Leisure area: open all year round
Beach patrolled in July and August
Dogs even on a leash are prohibited

Where to sleep ?

Small 4 storey house located at the end of a blind alley and set in a quiet environment with fine views onto the surrounding hills.

Street level: a bicycle shed

- 1st floor: entrance, kitchen and eating area

- 2nd floor: lounge, shower room and toilets

- 3rd floor: hall and bedroom with a 140 double bed

- 4th floor: bedroom on a mezzanine with a 160 double bed and a study area

The house has been recently refurbished in a contemporary style:

Due to its architecture this accommodation is not appropriate for mobility-impaired persons and/or young children.

The gite is non-smoking and pets are not allowed, bathroom linen can be hired.

Where to eat ?

We offer homemade cooking based mainly on fresh, local produce and a different menu every week. Booking advisable.

- Treat yourself to our delicious specialties either cooked on a pancake or on a slice of bread.

- Pancakes, homemade ice creams and coffee served with a selection of delicious delights

As for drinks we provide a range of Aveyron traditional lemonades, organic cider, wine by the glass and Aubrac beer.

Monthly cheese tasting evenings

Restaurant mentioned in le Petit Futé guide in 2017 and 2018.

Wath to do

INTERMUNICIPAL INDOOR SWIMMING POOL

A wooden terrace and a lawned area with relaxing chairs welcome you to enjoy sunbathing.

Activities: water aerobics, aqua cycling, aqua fitness, swimming baby, aquatic playground for toddlers, water school for children, and aquaphobia sessions.

Lesson timetables are available by clicking on the link below:

What to see

Maison de la Mémoire (House of Memory) in the Saint-Affrique area

The Maison de la Mémoire du Pays Saint-Affricain collects, conserves and promotes the heritage of Saint Affrique in all its forms. Inside youll find:
-A floor dedicated to temporary exhibitions, continually updated throughout the year, where you will discover the culture and heritage of Southern Aveyron.
-A museum of Aveyronnaise society which allows visitors to stroll through time and discover the old local trades and daily life: the displays are set out in five visiting rooms. The Maison de la Mémoire also holds the municipal archives department, a working and regional studies library, and an activity area for children and adults (more info on www.saintaffrique.com).

Where to eat ?

The fresh produce and the homemade food cooked in the sunny Mediterranean style
Inviting summer terrace and air conditioned dining area.
Quick and tasty set menus for lunch. Other menus available.

Wath to do

To celebrate our 4 star award, the 1837 SPA is now accessible to non-resident persons who can enjoy our high-level facilities within easy reach of the Southern Aveyron area. Several options are available among which are:

The relaxing moment: 30€ per person for 2 hour, or 135 € for a 10 x 1 hour non-transferable package (from Monday to Saturday).

Day SPA session: 45€ per person for an afternoon from 14.00 to 19.00 (from Monday to Friday).

Each option comprises access to the heated indoor overflow swimming pool, to the SPA facility with sauna, hammam and 2 jacuzzis and to the cardio training room.

The 1837 SPA provides you with a bathrobe and a bath towel and is pleased to serve you a free cup of tea!

If you wish to book a time slot, please feel free to contact us at 05 65 97 63 30 (excluding the mid July – mid August period).

The 1837 SPA offers also a wide range of à la carte beauty treatments: extra face and body care that can be performed in one of the individual or double cabins by appointment only. So, if you want to get the most out of the 1837 SPA facility or give a gift to your friends, don't delay!

Where to sleep ?

The 1837” has reopened its doors from May 15th 2020…with new sanitary practises to ensure your safety, as well as that of our employees !

The success of our unique hotel is the result of an Aveyronnaise family in love with their region, and a beautiful building that is nearly two hundred years old. Come and spend green holidays and enjoy overnight, or week-long stays in spacious and comfortable suites (fully equipped apartments with, among other features “fitted kitchen, dining area, living room with an office space, free wifi internet access” which can accommodate from 1 to 6 persons), private terraces opening onto a large green terrain, with free and private access to all of the 1837 facilities (with time slot-booking) and providing a unique atmosphere. Situated a few steps away from the small town centre of Saint-Affrique and close to numerous hiking and cycling circuits, the 1837 combines wonderful open spaces, refinement and services in the heart of southern Aveyron.

On the subject of services, please note that from now on, the 1837 offers you packed breakfasts using only local produce, which we leave for you outside the door of your apartment. And if you do not feel like preparing a meal, going to the drive-through or shopping at the local grocery store, we can also deliver midday and evening meal trays to you!

Revitalise yourself and enjoy the simple things in life: spend the siesta hours in the shade of the park, picnic with your family on the river's edge, take a walk and live simply, while enjoying the 1837 facilities (heated indoor overflow swimming pool, SPA facility with sauna, hammam and 2 jacuzzis, cardio training room and a billiards room.

Book now with complete peace of mind and pay later by calling us at 05 65 97 63 30 or sending us an e-mail to contact@le1837.fr

We invite you to share all our wonderful facilities so that you have a relaxing and enjoyable stay !

« Trekking experience »

Equestrian and multi sports weekly stays taking place in a rural environment within an eco-hamlet and a diversified agricultural exploitation that combines multiple cropping, meat and cattle breeding and an equestrian farm.

A maximum of 6 participants will be accommodated to ensure a family, eco-friendly

and a participative stay.

Accommodation in tents (mattress supplied), permanent kitchen, shower and dry toilet.

Equi-Ploof stays: Every morning: equestrian learning sessions during which you will make acquaintance with the horse (lungeing, ethological equitation, horse riding, horse-acrobatics and more). Every afternoon: water activities (swimming pool, pedalo, water games and more).

Multi-Sport stays: Each day will be dedicated to a different sport (horse-riding, treetop adventure, canoeing, paddle, swimming pool, circus arts and more).

« Trekking experience »

We offer you several horse trekking trips in the heart of Aveyron, within the Grands Causses Natural Park.

Enjoy a great horseback ride across the wide-open spaces of the Larzac plateau, land of the Templars, towards the Raspes du Tarn, or the Rougiers contrasting lands…

These magnificent and varied landscapes will make these horse trekking trips unforgettable experiences. Two to five day trekkings with the night spent bivouacking or in a gite according to your desires.

We offer:

-Trekking “Between Causse and Rougier” (2 days)

-Trekking “Towards the Raspes du Tarn" (3 days)

- Trekking “Summer Trekking” (2 days)

-Trekking “Larzac, land of the Templars” (5 days)

Where to eat ?

Traditionnal French cooking and regional specialities with lamb, Roquefort and foie gras based courses, beef.

Where to sleep ?