The 11 most beautiful villages in Aubrac to visit

Perched in the Massif Central, in the heart of France, the Aubrac region is a veritable spectacle for the senses. It offers an incredible range of landscapes, from vast green plateaux to deep valleys, from tranquil lakes to dense forests. Each village in the Aubrac has its own unique character and charm, with a rich history and deep-rooted traditions. We take you on a journey through the 11 most beautiful villages of the Aubrac, hidden gems that deserve to be discovered.

1. Saint-Germain du Teil

The first village on our list is Saint-Germain du Teil, a real architectural gem. It is perched on a hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Lot valley. The narrow streets and stone houses, with their distinctive lauze roofs, give this village an undeniable charm. Visitors can also discover the 12th-century Romanesque church of Saint-Germain, home to some magnificent frescoes.

The other major attraction of Saint-Germain du Teil is its natural surroundings. The village is surrounded by footpaths that wind through the countryside, offering spectacular views. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just a nature lover, there’s sure to be a trail to suit you.

2. Les Salces

Les Salces is a small village nestling in the heart of Aubrac. It’s famous for its traditional houses with architecture typical of the region. Stone walls, lauze roofs and colourful shutters give the village a warm, rustic charm. But the real jewel of Les Salces is its 11th-century Romanesque church, a historic monument that sits proudly in the centre of the village.

The natural setting of Les Salces is equally impressive. The village is surrounded by lush green meadows, dense forests and winding rivers. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the many hiking trails that criss-cross the area, offering spectacular views of the Aubrac landscape.

3. Saint-Pierre de Nogaret

Saint-Pierre de Nogaret is a picturesque village with a rich historical heritage. The Château de Nogaret, a medieval fortress, is the village’s most striking landmark. This historic monument impresses with its size and architecture. The church of Saint-Pierre, another important building, is a fine example of local Gothic architecture.

The natural surroundings of Saint-Pierre de Nogaret are also a major asset. The village is surrounded by green hills, dense forests and winding rivers. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the many hiking trails that criss-cross the area, offering spectacular views of the Aubrac landscape.

4. Les Hermaux

Les Hermaux is a charming village nestling in an exceptional natural setting. It is surrounded by the Aubrac mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The traditional stone houses, with their lauze roofs, give the village a rustic, welcoming atmosphere. The village church, a 12th-century Romanesque building, is a real architectural treasure.

Les Hermaux is also an ideal starting point for walks in the Aubrac region. The signposted footpaths allow you to discover the wild beauty of this region, with its vast plateaux, dense forests and tranquil lakes.

5. Trélans

Trélans is a picturesque village nestling in the heights of Aubrac. It offers spectacular views of the Lot valley and surrounding mountains. The village’s stone houses, with their lauze roofs, are a fine example of traditional Aubrac architecture. The 15th-century Gothic church of Saint-Martin is another village landmark.

Trélans is also renowned for its natural landscapes. The village is surrounded by lush green meadows, dense forests and winding rivers. The hiking trails that criss-cross the area offer breathtaking views of the Aubrac landscape.

6. Aubrac

Aubrac, which gives its name to the region, is a village not to be missed. It is renowned for its typical architecture, with stone houses and lauze roofs. The village is dominated by the Tour des Anglais, a medieval tower offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. The church of Sainte-Foy, a historic monument, is another point of interest in the village.

Aubrac is also an ideal starting point for walks in the region. The signposted footpaths allow you to discover the varied landscapes of Aubrac, from vast plateaux to deep valleys. The village is also a stopover on the Pilgrim’s Way to Santiago de Compostela, attracting many pilgrims each year.

7. Saint-Chély d’Aubrac

Saint-Chély d’Aubrac is a charming village nestling in a green valley. It is famous for its 14th-century stone bridge, a historic monument spanning the River Boralde. The village’s stone houses, with their lauze roofs, are a fine example of traditional Aubrac architecture.

The natural surroundings of Saint-Chély d’Aubrac are equally impressive. The village is surrounded by lush green meadows, dense forests and winding rivers. The hiking trails that criss-cross the region offer spectacular views of the Aubrac landscape.

8. Laguiole

Laguiole is undoubtedly one of the best-known villages in Aubrac. It is famous for its handmade knives, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century. The village is also famous for its cheese, Laguiole, an uncooked pressed cheese made from cow’s milk. The 15th-century Gothic church of Saint-Matthieu is another village landmark.

Laguiole is also an ideal starting point for hikes in the Aubrac region. The signposted footpaths allow you to discover the varied landscapes of this region, from vast plateaux to deep valleys.

9. Nasbinals

Nasbinals is a charming village nestling in the heart of the Aubrac. It is famous for its 12th-century Romanesque church, a historic monument that sits proudly in the centre of the village. The village’s stone houses, with their lauze roofs, are a fine example of traditional Aubrac architecture.

Nasbinals is also surrounded by impressive natural scenery. The village is surrounded by lush green meadows, dense forests and winding rivers. The hiking trails that criss-cross the region offer spectacular views of the Aubrac landscape.

10. Valon

Valon is a picturesque village nestling in the heights of Aubrac. It offers spectacular views of the Lot valley and surrounding mountains. The Château de Valon, a medieval fortress, is the village’s most striking landmark. This historic monument impresses with its size and architecture.

Valon is also renowned for its natural surroundings. The village is surrounded by green hills, dense forests and winding rivers. The hiking trails that criss-cross the area offer breathtaking views of the Aubrac landscape.

11. Chaudes-Aigues

Chaudes-Aigues is a unique village, renowned for its natural hot springs. These springs, which can reach a temperature of 82°C, are the hottest in Europe. The village is also known for its typical architecture, with stone houses and lauze roofs. The 15th-century Gothic church of Saint-Martin is another point of interest in the village.

Chaudes-Aigues is also surrounded by impressive natural scenery. The village is surrounded by lush green meadows, dense forests and winding rivers. The hiking trails that criss-cross the region offer spectacular views of the Aubrac landscape.

In conclusion, Aubrac is a region rich in natural beauty and historical heritage. Each village has its own charm and its own story to tell. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover or just looking for a place to relax, the Aubrac has something to offer everyone. So don’t hesitate to explore these 11 most beautiful villages in Aubrac and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of this unique region.