Nant
Visit Nant in Aveyron
Situated in the heart of the Grands Causses Regional Nature Park, on the border with the Cévennes, Nant is one of the most charming villages in southern Aveyron. The village captivates visitors with its medieval heritage, its irrigation canals, its crystal-clear rivers and its exceptional natural surroundings. Whether you’re a fan of hiking, outdoor sports, historic buildings or simply looking for a peaceful break, Nant is an ideal base from which to explore the Grands Causses, the Cévennes and the Gorges de la Dourbie.
Aveyron's garden
Known as the ‘Garden of the Aveyron’, Nant enjoys an exceptional setting, shaped by the waters of its three rivers: the Dourbie, the Durzon and the Barbaresque, which bring freshness and greenery to this unspoilt valley. The history of Nant dates back to the Middle Ages, when the former Benedictine abbey made the village an important religious and economic centre.
From this period survives the imposing Saint-Pierre Abbey Church, a remarkable building combining Romanesque and Gothic architecture, whose chancel and successive restorations bear witness to several centuries of history. Listed as a Historic Monument, it remains one of the finest heritage gems in the south of the Aveyron.
As you stroll through the narrow streets, you will discover a remarkably well-preserved heritage: the old market halls, the Pont de la Prade dating from the 14th century, the Chapel of the Penitents, beautiful mansions, vaulted passageways and stone façades that tell the story of a prosperous village over the centuries. Water is an integral part of Nant’s identity.
The village boasts an exceptional heritage of water management: the Vernèdes gardens. Created by Benedictine monks from the 10th century onwards, this remarkable network of canals diverts part of the water from the Durzon to irrigate the gardens and farmland surrounding the village. For centuries, these fertile gardens have been an essential resource for the inhabitants, making Nant a veritable food-producing garden.
Water flows from plot to plot via an ingenious system of canals, sluice gates and small stone structures. By following the Chemin de l’eau, you can follow this unique network, explore the Vernèdes gardens and gain a better understanding of the vital role that water has played in the village’s development. The gentle murmur of the canals accompanies your walk and adds to Nant’s very special charm.
What is there to do in Nant and the surrounding area?
Stroll through the narrow streets of the medieval village! The best way to explore Nant is quite simply to walk around. As you wander through the narrow streets, you’ll discover the imposing Saint-Pierre Abbey Church, the old market halls, the Prade Bridge, the stone houses and the famous canals dug by Benedictine monks nearly a thousand years ago. Take the time to sit out on a terrace, enjoy some artisan ice cream or a coffee, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
A trip to the market! Every Tuesday morning, the Place du Claux comes alive with the traditional market. Local producers, craftspeople and traders offer specialities from the Aveyron: sheep’s-milk cheeses, cured meats, honey, seasonal fruit and vegetables… It’s the perfect time to meet the producers, discover local flavours and put together a picnic before setting off to explore the surrounding area.
Climb the Roc Nantais! You simply can’t stay in Nant without setting out to conquer the Roc Nantais. This iconic hike takes you to a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the village. The climb is challenging but manageable for experienced walkers. In under three hours there and back, you’ll enjoy a varied route through woodland, pine trees, broom and limestone cliffs. Once at the summit, the reward is well worth the effort: an exceptional panoramic view across the whole of the Larzac & Vallées region. Don’t forget your camera: the view is particularly spectacular at sunrise or sunset.
Discover the Durzon spring! Just a few minutes from the centre of Nant lies one of the region’s most remarkable natural sites: the Durzon spring. This impressive karst resurgence produces water of exceptional clarity, the temperature of which remains constant throughout the year. A pleasant, shaded footpath provides easy access on foot, making it an ideal walk for families. To protect this vital source of drinking water, swimming is prohibited here.
Swimming in the Dourbie! When temperatures rise, the Dourbie becomes a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Its clear waters offer plenty of places to swim. Whether you simply want to cool off, read by the water’s edge or enjoy a family picnic, the river is a true haven of peace in the heart of an unspoilt natural environment.
A paradise for outdoor activities.
Explore the most beautiful villages around Nant! Your stay is also an opportunity to discover several iconic sites located just a few kilometres away: Cantobre, a spectacular hilltop village clinging to the cliff face, and La Couvertoirade, a Templar town. The Dourbie Gorges, amongst the most beautiful in France. The Larzac Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cellars of Roquefort. The famous Millau Viaduct. The Cirque de Navacelles, designated a Grand Site de France.
All these excursions are easily accessible from Nant.
Lovers of outdoor activities will find a vast playground here. Hiking, trail running, mountain biking, climbing, canoeing, fishing, paragliding and even horse riding: every season offers new experiences to enjoy.
The area boasts, in particular, permanent trail running routes, several signposted mountain bike trails and numerous hiking trails, allowing you to explore the spectacular landscapes of the Grands Causses.
Nantes also hosts several major sporting events which attract thousands of participants and spectators every year, such as the Festival des Templiers, the Festival des Hospitaliers or even the famous Millau 100 km, making the village an ideal base for outdoor sports enthusiasts..
Stay right at the heart of all these discoveries
By choosing La Barbaresque, you’ll be staying right in the heart of Nant. You can set off on foot to explore the village, visit the restaurants, the Tuesday market, the shops and several hiking trails without needing to use your car. Whether you’re coming for a weekend in the countryside, a family holiday, an active break or simply to recharge your batteries, Nant is an authentic destination that appeals to lovers of the great outdoors and heritage enthusiasts alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to stay in Nant?
During your stay in southern Aveyron, enjoy a fully equipped holiday cottage for 8 people in Nant, just 40 minutes from Millau, in a completely refurbished flat.
When is market day in Nant?
The Nant market takes place every Tuesday morning, in the heart of the village. It’s the perfect place to discover local produce and meet local producers. You’ll find seasonal fruit and vegetables, cheeses, cured meats, honey, artisan bread and other specialities from the Aveyron. Make the most of your visit to stroll through the narrow streets of the medieval town and stock up on local flavours before setting off to explore the surrounding area.
Where can I park for free in Nant?
It’s very easy to park in Nant thanks to the many free car parks scattered around the historic centre. It’s just a few minutes’ walk to the shops, restaurants and main tourist attractions. The car parks at La Prade, La Condamine, Jeanne d’Arc and the Cemetery offer plenty of parking spaces, even during the tourist season. During major events, such as the Festival des Hospitaliers or the Saint-Jacques festival, temporary car parks are also set up to accommodate visitors
How long does it take to visit Nant?
Allow 2 to 3 hours to explore Nant’s main attractions: stroll through the village’s narrow streets, admire Saint-Pierre Abbey, the old market halls and the Vernèdes gardens. If you’d like to enjoy lunch on a terrace, browse the shops or go for a hike to the Roc Nantais or the source of the Durzon, you’d be better off allowing a full day to fully appreciate the charm of the village and its surroundings!
Plan your stay in Aveyron
Before you arrive, take a look at the practical information, suggestions for things to see and do, and events taking place in the area so that you can plan your stay as effectively as possible.