Having appreciated the delights of the pink-brick town of Montauban, then climb gently to join a greenway taking you towards orchards. The route meanders for a time through countryside, avoiding major roads. It passes close to some little gems built on the edge of the valley, which is very open here. You’ll soon spot the châteaux of Bioule, Nègrepelisse and Montricoux.

After Montricoux, the enchanting Aveyron Valley cuts through a limestone plateau, or causse. As well as relishing spectacular viewing points down onto impressive gorges, enjoy a feast of perched villages and castles! The settings resemble backdrops to a film. The route along this portion more than lives up to expectations, but it requires quite some effort from cyclists!

Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val is a gem along the Aveyron Valley. A stopover here will prove memorable. The route continues to be as spectacular as ever, but the way proves easier, more of this portion running along the valley bottom. It takes you through charming villages before coming to a delightful, provisional end, at the foot of the old Château de Saint-Martin-Laguépie.