Looking for some exhilarating hikes in the Aubrac region? Look no further! Here are the best hiking trails in this beautiful natural park.

Spanning three departments, the Aubrac Regional Natural Park is a true gem of the French countryside. With its rich heritage and cultural significance, it has stood the test of time. But what we are interested in today is its natural beauty!

How can you discover its 220,000 hectares of unspoiled nature, sandwiched between the Regional Natural Parks of the volcanoes and the Grandes Causses? We suggest you explore on foot! Take a look at our selection of the best hikes in the Aubrac region and embark on an adventure!

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Most Beautiful Hikes in the Aubrac

1. The Picade, the Lake of the Salhiens and the Deroc waterfall

• Duration: 1h
• Distance: 4.3 km
• Height difference: 109 m
• Difficulty: Easy

Not far from the village of Saint-Urcize, lies the charming village of Nasbinals, located on the iconic plateau of Aubrac. The hike towards the Picade, the Lake of Salhiens, and the Déroc waterfall is perfect for families, as it is relatively easy and accessible. You might also meet other hikers along the way.

Begin by following the path to the east towards the waterfall, and then retrace your steps. The view from the top of the Déroc waterfall is breathtaking, and you can approach the cave of Déroc if you follow the indications. After that, head towards the Lake of Salhiens and the Picade. The natural lake is fed by the same stream as the waterfall, and the dense vegetation of the Forest of the Picade surrounds it.

The trail through the forest has a small elevation change, but it is still enjoyable to explore the ecosystem of the entire area. Don’t miss out on this hike to discover the natural wonders of Aubrac!

2. Lassouts and the Castelnau-Lassouts dam

• Duration : 3h20
• Distance: 13 km
• Height difference: 458 m
• Difficulty: Medium

Nestled in the picturesque Aveyron region, the charming village of Lassouts is a sight to behold. With its quaint stone houses, narrow streets, and beautiful church, it’s a perfect representation of the idyllic beauty of Aubrac. The village is located on the banks of the Lot River, which widens here due to the Castelnau-Lassouts EDF dam.

To reach the dam, you’ll cross a lush forest bordered by fields before the impressive structure comes into view. The dam is responsible for generating renewable electricity for over 35,000 people and has a fascinating permanent exhibition for visitors to learn more about it. You can also stroll along the banks of the Lot and admire the scenic view of the opposite shores, including the charming village of Mandailles, which appears to be sinking into the lake.

3. The Pendulum of the Fabregue

• Duration: 3h
• Distance: 11.7 km
• Height difference: 324 m
• Difficulty: Medium

If you’re looking for a natural adventure in the Aubrac, this hike from the city of Aubrac is a great option! The trail starts by taking you through a path that leads to the valley of the Boralde of Saint-Chély, where you will follow the course of the stream for a few moments.

Next, you will bypass the Puech du Pommier, a high hill that reaches 1,302 meters. As you continue, the trail will guide you to the Aubrac Peatlands Biological Reserve, where you can take in the stunning flora and fauna.

Cross the beautiful plateau known as Pendouliou de la Fabregue, where you can enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the hilly horizon and ancient shepherd houses. Finally, the hike will take you back to the charming village of Aubrac. Get ready for a truly unforgettable journey!

4. From Aubrac to the Abri de la Vaysse

• Duration : 1h40
• Distance: 6.3 km
• Height difference: 226 m
• Difficulty: Medium

The Abri de la Vaysse trail is a must-see hike in the Aubrac region, taking you to an unguarded hut on the border of the Peatland Biological Reserve. The round-trip trail starts from the city of Aubrac and takes you through the valley, crossing two streams along the way.

As you trek through the undergrowth and the Aubrac forest, you’ll experience both dense cover and clear passages. Once you arrive at the Abri de la Vaysse, you can take a break and soak in the beautiful surroundings. It’s a great opportunity to rest and recharge in the heart of nature

5. Lake Castelnau-Lassouts

• Duration: 2 days
• Distance: 32.2 km
• Height difference: 801 m
• Difficulty: Medium

This hike takes you around the beautiful Castelnau-Lassouts lake, which was created due to the EDF dam that retains the flow of the Lot River. Starting from Cabanac, a small village by the lake, you can explore the architectural heritage of the Aubrac region and stay for a night before hitting the trails.

As you walk along the banks of the lake, you’ll discover many other charming villages, and the hike provides an opportunity to explore the region’s exceptional fauna and flora. The trail is a real observatory of nature, with picturesque landscapes that are perfect for a leisurely bike ride. However, keep in mind that the route is quite long, with more than 30 kilometers to cover.

6. The loop of the Déroc waterfall

• Duration : 2h10
• Distance: 8.7 km
• Height difference: 156 m
• Difficulty: Medium

This hike takes you on a large loop in the heart of the Aubrac plateau. Starting from Nasbinals, you will climb to the Cave of Deroc, passing through fields and fallows. You will first reach the waterfall through the place where the Salhiens stream flows. This offers you a unique perspective of the waterfall, usually visible from the ground.

You can also descend to the cave to observe the Deroc waterfall from a more classic angle. Then, continue to explore the plains towards the village of Montgros, where you can take a small break. Finally, follow the path that will take you back to Nasbinals.

Wrap Up

I hope you find the article “Most Beautiful Hikes in the Aubrac” helpful.