Aubrac Plateau

Stretching across the rugged borderlands of Aveyron, Cantal, and Lozère, the Aubrac Plateau is a windswept volcanic tableland that feels like a world apart. This high-altitude wilderness—averaging 1,000 metres above sea level—is famed for its sweeping grasslands, ancient stone burons (cheese dairies), and the hardy Aubrac cattle that roam freely. For travellers, it offers a deeply authentic slice of rural France, where tradition runs deep and the landscape feels both raw and serene.

Highlights & What to See

• Laguiole – The gateway town to Aubrac, renowned for its handcrafted knives (couteaux de Laguiole) and the robust, nutty Laguiole cheese. Visit a forge to see knife-making in action and sample the local aligot—a cheesy mashed potato dish that’s pure comfort.
• Burons & the Transhumance – The plateau is dotted with stone burons, traditional summer dairies where cheese was once made. In late May or early June, the transhumance festival sees herds of Aubrac cattle driven up to summer pastures—a spectacular, living tradition.
• Sentier de l’Imaginaire – This art-and-nature trail near Nasbinals weaves through volcanic landscapes with sculptures and installations that blend into the scenery. It’s a gentle, thought-provoking walk suitable for all.
• Viaduc de Garabit – Just west of the plateau, this stunning railway viaduct designed by Gustave Eiffel arches across the Truyère River gorge. Stop at the viewpoint for a classic photo op.
• Puy de Gudette & Puy de la Tuile – Two extinct volcanoes that offer panoramic hikes over the plateau. On a clear day, you can see the Monts du Cantal and the Pyrenees in the distance.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give the Aubrac Plateau at least two to three days to truly absorb its rhythm. One day is enough for a whistle-stop drive from Laguiole to Nasbinals, but you’ll miss the hiking and the quiet magic of the burons. With three days, you can base yourself in a gîte, tackle a couple of volcano hikes, and explore the art trail and local villages. The plateau is best visited from June to September when the weather is mild and the cattle are on the high pastures.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Conques – A medieval pilgrimage village on the Santiago de Compostela route, with a stunning abbey-church and a beautifully preserved old town. About 1 hour south-west.
• Gorges du Tarn – Dramatic limestone gorges with kayaking, hiking, and charming villages like Sainte-Énimie. About 1.5 hours south-east.
• Monts du Cantal – France’s largest volcanic range, with higher peaks and excellent skiing in winter. About 1 hour north-west.
• Saint-Flour – A fortified hilltop town with a magnificent Gothic cathedral and sweeping views over the plains. About 45 minutes north.
• Le Puy-en-Velay – The start of the famous Camino route, known for its volcanic rock formations and the striking Notre-Dame du Puy cathedral. About 1.5 hours east.

Please check official sources for current details.