Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / France / Midi-Pyrenees / Aveyron / Rodez
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| | | Picturesque perfection |  | Why go on holiday to Rodez?
This pretty, hilltop town in the heart of southwest France is properly French, with none of the sleek pretensions of the Cote d'Azur and far fewer Brits than its Provencal and Dordogne neighbours.
Like the medieval town, the surrounding countryside could fool you into thinking it's stuck in a time warp. Rodez is the perfect starting off point to explore this picturesque region.
How much will it cost?
Ryanair flies to Rodez from London Stansted, with best fares starting from £32pp or you could fly to Toulouse with Air France, which is about 100 miles south east.
There are over 20 hotels and guesthouses (gites) in and around Rodez ranging from the three-star Best Western Causse Comtal in nearby Gages (doubles from £72) to the Hotel Broussy where doubles cost a maximum of £34pn. You'll need to hire a car to explore the region.
When should I go?
The weather is warmest in June to September, with average highs ranging from 24-27C/75F-81F. Winters are cold, with temperatures plummeting to 4C/40F.
Who is it for?
This region is best for bona fide Francophiles and gourmets – the famous cheese-making town of Roquefort is close by – who enjoy the quiet life. If you want wild nightlife, heaving bars and happy hours, go to Ibiza.
What are the must-sees?
Visit Rodez's towering sandstone gothic cathedral, which was built in the 13th century, located in the central square. Don't miss the Fenaille Museum, which houses an impressive and fascinating collection of ancient stone (menhir) statues dating back to 3,000BC. The most famous, La Dame-de-Saint-Sernin, has toured museums worldwide.
Out of town, experience the jagged, vertical cliffs of the Gorges du Tarn which have been carved out over the millennia by the river Tarn. On the way, visit the medieval town of Severac. Sainte Enemie is another medieval town in the heart of the Gorges du Tarn. During the summer, when the river Tarn is low, you can enjoy a lazy river kayak. There are lots of walking trails including the Sentier de la Vallee du Tarn. You can also hire mountain bikes or go horse riding. Art fans should head south east to Albi, the birthplace of French painter Toulouse-Lautrec.
Epicureans can visit the small town of Roquefort, and see the eponymous cheese cellars.
What will I spend?
Half pint of beer £2; roll of film (24) £2.50; moderate restaurant meal £15; litre of petrol 70p; four-mile taxi ride £4. Costs can vary.
Any special events?
In July, there is a medieval market with artisans, actors, jugglers and musicians in traditional costume. There is also the Estivada folklore festival of Occitania, featuring street parades and a host of free concerts and shows.
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| | Fact File : Rodez |
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| | | Rodez | | Did you know
The Notre-Dame Cathedral in Rodez took over 300 years to complete.
Language
French
Visas
You do not need a visa to go to France, but take your passport.
Getting there
There are daily flights from London Stansted to Rodez with Ryanair or you can go via Paris with Air France. There are daily trains from Paris and Toulouse.
Flying time from London
Less than two hours.
Getting around
You'll need to hire a car to see the best sights around Rodez.
Currency
Euro
Costs
Half pint of beer £2; roll of film (24) £2.50; moderate restaurant meal £15; litre of petrol 70p; four-mile taxi ride £4. Costs can vary.
Weather
The weather is warmest in June to September, with average highs ranging from 24-27C/75F-81F. Winters are cold, with temperatures plummeting to 4C/40F.
Time difference
One hour ahead of the UK.
International dialling code from UK
00 33
Voltage
220V, 50Hz. Plugs are two pin, so adaptors are needed.
Opening hours
Most museums close on either Monday or Tuesday. In July and August — France's annual holiday period — many shops and businesses will shut down completely. Shop opening hours vary but most take a long lunch and stay open till 7pm. Few shops open on Sunday.
Health – before you go
No jabs needed. We have reciprocal medical care agreements with France. Take an EHIC form with you (available from your post office).
Health – when you are there
French pharmacies are usually marked by a green cross and they're everywhere.
Warnings
Pregnant women shouldn't eat the local Roquefort cheese.
Emergency
Police, Tel 17; Ambulance, Tel 15; Fire, Tel 19; British Embassy: 16, Rue d'Anjou, Paris.
Customs
French shops invariably close for a good couple of hours at lunchtime. Do as the locals do and enjoy a lengthy lunch to pass the time.
Pets
Under the pilot Pet Travel Scheme you can now take your dog or cat to France, with all the required paperwork and vaccinations. This takes several months to set up — check with your vet for details.
Tipping
By law, cafe, restaurant and hotel bills include service. Most people leave loose change in a restaurant. In taxis a tip would range from 30-70 cents, but you could go mad and leave one euro (about 62p).
Tourist office
Rodez Tourist Office, Place Foch, 12000 Rodez.Tel 00 33 (0) 5 65 75 76 77
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| | Available rental properties in Rodez |
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