Clos des Garrigues

While there are plenty of swimming spots along the river, Lamothe-Capdeville (five minutes’ drive) has a splendid sandy stretch for a paddle in the water (or a chance to lay down a towel and have a peaceful snooze). Once thoroughly rested, you can see more of the countryside on horseback from Les Sabots de l’Honor (25 minutes’ walk), a trekking centre that runs rides for all levels of ability. Perhaps you’d rather jump in a canoe. If so, this is the vehicle of choice over at Gorges de l’Aveyron (an hour and five minutes’ drive). And if you’re feeling particularly daring, the Roc d’Anglars (45 minutes) is a good spot to test your climbing skills… or paraglide from up high. The Aveyron runs through Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val (40 minutes), a medieval settlement with Romanesque architecture and a lively Sunday produce market, and Najac (an hour and five minutes), a scenic bastide town. North of the river, Caylus (40 minutes) is a photogenic medieval village and gateway for hikes to the waterfalls at Cascade Pétrifiante (45 minutes).