A MAGICAL LAND WITH A MULTITUDE OF ATMOSPHERES AND EXPERIENCES
Aubrac is symbolized by stunning landscapes and ever-changing light. It is also where the Aubrac breed of cattle originates from and covers a vast area made up of woodland, pastures and farm shelters. The highest peak in Aubrac culminates at an altitude of 1,469 metres. If you are visiting the area during the summer, you will get the chance to observe the transhumance, when cattle make their way to the higher mountain pastureland. If you are here during wintertime, the landscape is transformed into a Nordic scene where cross-country skiing is extremely popular. If you are a food-lover, you will particularly enjoy local specialities such as aligot, thé d’Aubrac and gentian liquor.
Aubrac, an unforgettable stage on the St Jacques de Compostelle way
The St Jacques de Compostelle Way that leads pilgrims from Le Puy en Vélay to Galicia, crosses Aubrac along the GR 65 (Via Podiensis). It is a classic stage on this pilgrimage journey. Several architectural constructions and sections here have been classified by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. The itinerary is beautiful and the landscape is extremely varied. There is an exceptional wealth of sites of architectural interest along the way, and a combination of these factors contribute to making this stage of the St James’ Way so special.
Aubrac, the perfect place for outdoor sports all year round.
In the summer, Aubrac is the perfect place to enjoy walking, horse riding, mountain biking, or even exploring with an electric scooter. Wintertime provides the opportunity to practise snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing and even dog sled rides. The different activities are possible from the villages of Bonnecombe, Brameloup, Laguiole, Nasbinals and Saint-Urcize.
Creation of the Aubrac Regional Nature Park
Aubrac is a rural region with a range of low mountains that offers precious natural, cultural and architectural heritage. Its rural economy, scenery, traditions and skills, environment and cultural heritage, although recognized, remain vulnerable and under threat all the same. To safeguard and promote the resources of this exceptional region, local authorities, government bodies, local communities and professionals set about creating a regional nature park. Their work on this project over a period of 10 years ultimately led to the creation of the Aubrac Regional Nature Park in Spring 2018.
Not to be missed while visiting Aubrac
- The village of Saint-Urcizeand its Romanesque church, ranked amongst the “Petites Cités de Caractère”.
- The special area of conservation (Espace Naturel Sensible) of the Puy de la Tuile, a peak offering a wonderful 360° panorama.
- Deroc waterfall and the Routes des Lacs, a superb road taking in four beautiful wild lakes.
- The village of Aubrac and the Maison de l’Aubrac, a visitor centre with audio-visual displays, an exhibition area, an eating area serving local specialities, and a botanical garden.
- The spa town of Chaudes-Aigueswhere hot water rises to the surface at a temperature of 82°C.
- The Gorges of the River Bès
- The village of Laguiole with its famous statue of a bull, knife production and the Jeune Montagne cheese cooperative offering guided visits and tasting sessions.
Festivities and events
- The “Aubrac Transhumance Festival” during the last weekend in May, showcasing Aubrac cattle and celebrating their return to the mountain pasturelands for the summer.
- The “Rand’Aubrac – Le Grand Parcours” at the beginning of June offering participants a choice of four walks of different distances with refreshments and entertainment along the way.
- The “Phot’Aubrac” photography competition and exhibition throughout
- Organized trips to hear the roar of stags during the rutting season in September and October.
Other things to enjoy
- The “Aubrac Transhumance Festival” during the last weekend in May, showcasing Aubrac cattle and celebrating their return to the mountain pasturelands for the summer.
- The “Rand’Aubrac – Le Grand Parcours” at the beginning of June offering participants a choice of four walks of different distances with refreshments and entertainment along the way.
- The “Phot’Aubrac” photography competition and exhibition throughout
- Organized trips to hear the roar of stags during the rutting season in September and October.
