The Canyon de Bozouls is a horseshoe-shaped natural cirque. At the bottom, the Dourdou flows, sometimes swiftly and sometimes calmly, forming a wide bend here. High above the river, Sainte-Fauste Church stands at the tip of a rocky promontory. Most of the church dates from the 12th century. Choosing Bozouls means focusing on scenery and history: the cirque, the changing river and the church each reveal a different side of the same place.

Hiking trails and routes in the canyon

Three PR hiking trails, open to everyone, are available in the canyon. They are 2, 4 and 6 km long. These graduated distances help you choose the length of hike you want. Wooden walkways along the trails let you cross the Dourdou at any time of year. There are also views of the gorges. After storms, check local conditions before setting out.

For orienteering, there is a full route of around 6 to 7 km, a north route of 4 to 5 km and a south route of 3 km. This lets you compare shorter routes with the longer full route and choose according to your preferred distance. The hiking trails and orienteering course therefore offer different distances for planning an active stay in Bozouls.

Nature, history and experiences

The eco-pastoralism programme in Bozouls provides information about flora, fauna and geological influences. On the banks of the Dourdou, donkeys and goats maintain the canyon and its rock faces in a natural, ecological and sustainable way. Walkers, especially children, can approach the animals freely. The presence of animals and access may vary seasonally; follow local notices.

Terra Memoria is an interactive discovery centre in Bozouls. It presents the history of the Aveyron landscape, from the formation of the Earth to the present day. Check access arrangements before your visit. The Tyrolienne de Bozouls allows visitors to cross the canyon on a zip line. As this activity is seasonal, check operating dates and booking requirements in advance.

Enclume & Barbotine invites visitors to explore workshops for cutlery making and ceramics. There is also a shop featuring its own creations and works by other craftspeople that the workshop particularly appreciates. Opening hours may depend on current commissions.

Explore the former railway line

In 2026, the former Bertholène–Gabriac–Bozouls–Espalion railway line can be explored on foot, on horseback, by mountain bike or by VTC. Check the surface and weather before setting out. Between Bozouls and Espalion, the route passes through several tunnels and over viaducts. As not all the tunnels are lit, bring a light.

Discover more destinations: Villecomtal, Montrozier, Sainte-Eulalie-De-Cernon, Moyrazès, Nant, Salvagnac-Cajarc, Rignac, Causse-et-Diège

For the main travel overview: Aveyron.