The easy Labastide walking trail leads to the statue of the Virgin Mary, where you can enjoy views over the confluence of the Rance and Tarn and into the Tarn Valley. Together with a second circular route and the riverbank as a natural area, these trails give your trip planning in La Bastide-Solages a clear focus on walking. If you are looking for accommodation, the route lengths and estimated times can help you gauge how much walking to plan: the two loops differ in length and duration.
River Landscape and Natural Area
La Bastide-Solages is located in the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park. The Type 1 ZNIEFF “Rivière du Rance” also includes the commune and extends to the confluence with the Tarn. Its area includes riverbanks, riparian woodland and meadows. The description, dated June 12, 2024, identifies the cliffs as hunting and nesting habitat for eagle owls and peregrine falcons. The natural features described thus range from the river environment to the cliffs.
Two Circular Routes with Different Timeframes
The Labastide walking trail is an easy 6.4 km loop; the stated duration is about 2 hours and 30 minutes. The route involves 252 metres of ascent and 252 metres of descent. It starts and ends in the village square. Along the way, the route follows the banks of the Rance for about one kilometre and leads to the statue of the Virgin Mary. From there, you can enjoy sweeping views of the confluence and the Tarn Valley. The loop therefore combines a riverside section and a viewpoint with a specific timeframe for planning your day. Local trail conditions may change; check them before setting out.
The Sentier des Rives also passes through La Bastide-Solages and is certified by FFRandonnée® Tarn. The loop is 9.9 km long; the stated duration is three hours. The listed elevation gain and loss are 261 and 260 metres, respectively. Compared with the Labastide walking trail, the Sentier des Rives is longer and, according to the stated times, takes about half an hour more, while the elevation figures are close. This allows you to weigh up the distance and time required without judging the two loops by length alone.
Getting There and Accommodation
La Bastide-Solages can be reached via the D999, D33 and D555. The Labastide walking trail starts and ends in the village square; parking is available there in front of the cross. If you plan to do this loop, you can use the starting point to help orient yourself in the village.
In La Bastide-Solages, Les Ă‚nes du Bosc guesthouse offers donkey-supported walks and hikes. The animals can carry luggage and young children who are getting tired; parents remain responsible for the children. If you would like to include this activity in your stay, arrange it in advance directly with Les Ă‚nes du Bosc.
Discover more destinations: Gaillac-d'Aveyron, Montagnol, Colombiès, Le Truel, Gabriac, Almont-Les-Junies, Foissac, Comps-La-Grand-Ville.
For the regional travel overview: Aveyron.
