Gorges of the Lot and Dourdou: the finest hikes in Aveyron

Northern Aveyron is a paradise for walkers. The Lot and Dourdou gorges, steep and wooded, offer trails that alternate between shaded valley floors and ridges with 360° views. From La Roquette eco-lodge, everything can be explored on foot or by bike.

The GR65 between Conques and the Lot valley

The GR65, the Camino de Santiago, is one of the most emblematic long-distance footpaths in France. It passes through Conques — 8 km from La Roquette — and then descends towards Figeac via the Célé and Lot valleys. The stretch between Conques and Grand-Vabre can be done in half a day in one direction, with a shuttle back. The path winds through chestnut trees and broom, with fine views of the Dourdou meanders below.

The arrival at Conques via the GR65, coming from Espeyrac, is one of the finest approaches to a village you can make on foot. The village appears suddenly in the hollow of the valley, dominated by the two octagonal towers of the abbey church. A moment that justifies lacing up your boots in the first place.

The Dourdou gorges: wild trails

The Dourdou de Conques, a tributary of the Lot, has carved narrow, wooded gorges of remarkable wildness. The trail along the right bank between Conques and Grand-Vabre (around 8 km) is lightly waymarked and little-used — ideal for those seeking solitude and quiet. The path sometimes descends to the banks to cross the river on small wooden footbridges, then climbs back up the slopes in the shade of oaks and chestnuts.

This route is graded intermediate: the elevation gain is modest, but the terrain is sometimes slippery and the vegetation dense. Good footwear is essential. Allow 3 hours for the outward journey, with a stop for a swim in the Dourdou if the season allows.

Hikes from La Roquette: our favourite routes

The ridge loop (4h, intermediate level): departure from La Roquette, ascent via forest paths to the ridges overlooking the Lot valley, then descent via the ruins of the abandoned hamlet of Coutarel. Panoramic views over the Lot meander and the chestnut forest.

The riverside walk (1h30, easy): flat path along the Lot bank from La Roquette to the confluence with a stream, with several pebble beaches for swimming. Perfect for families with children.

Conques and back (5h, intermediate): reach Conques via the forest paths, visit the village and the abbey, return via a different route across the heights. The ideal day from the eco-lodge near Conques in Aveyron.

La Roquette's bikes

We provide bikes for our guests, free of charge. The roads in the Lot valley are lightly trafficked and ideal for cycle touring. You can reach Conques along the D901 in about twenty minutes (a gentle climb), or head down to Entraygues-sur-Truyère in 45 minutes on an almost flat road following the river. The country lanes also let you explore the isolated hamlets and farms on the hillsides, with their schist barns and heritage vegetable gardens.

We have walking guidebooks and IGN maps at La Roquette. For full details on activities, see our The Place page or contact us for a personalised programme.