Saint-Affrique : Where is it ? This way to the location !
The municipality of Saint-Affrique is in the south of the Massif Central, a few kilometers from Millau (about 30 km) and 1.5 hours from Albi.
Emblematic city of the Saint-Affricain, it is part of the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park, offering impregnable views of exceptional landscapes.
Nearby, several geologically diverse areas offer unique natural sites :
- At East, the expanses of the causses and limestone valleys.
- At South, the unmissable Rougier de Camares, with his flamboyant red earth.
- At North, the high plateau du Lévézou.
All that’s left to do is lace up your shoes and set off to explore the Causse du Larzac and the Avant-Causses, or venture into the Rougier and the lush green Vallons.
Saint-Affrique : Map & touristic circuits to explore everything !
In just 35 minutes, discover the 12 must-see places of Saint-Affrique !
- Notre-Dame de Saint-Affrique church : a Gothic masterpiece with an impressive neo-Gothic spire rising to over 70 meters.
- Pont Vieux: listed as a Historic Monument in 1886, one of the most beautiful medieval bridges in France.
- Rue du Lion d'Or: The main entrance to the town, its name is said to allude to the village of Saint-Rome-de-Tarn, whose coat of arms bore the inscription "de gueules de lion d'or".
Near Saint-Affrique, don’t miss the Dolmen of Tiergues, the Caylus Rock and the castle of Mélac — ideal places to immerse yourself in local history !
Saint-Affrique : A fortified town with a strong soul !
Although few traces of its fortified past remain, Saint-Affrique was once a veritable stronghold.
The Théron Tower and the Bastié Tower still stand guard, remnants of this military past.
The Sorgues, the river running through the city, once served as a natural line of defense.
The historic streets, like the Rue Gambetta or the Rue de la République, followed the line of the ramparts and the fortified gates which protected the town from outside attack.
Saint-Affrique, a vibrant and living heritage!
The city has his name from Affricanus, bishop of Comminges in the 6th century. The residents of Saint-Affrique carry their local heritage with pride, in a town where every corner whispers its past. In Occitan, the municipality is named Sant Africa. And if you like symbols, don’t miss its coat of arms and its motto ! From the Caylus family : "D'or, au lion passant de gueules accompagné de 16 étoiles de même posées en orle". In Saint-Affrique, even the stars seem to shine to tell the story of the past …
What to do in Saint-Affrique ? Let yourself be guided !
Every Saturday morning, immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Saint-Affrique market, a real feast for the senses, where local producers offer a variety of regional products. It's the perfect opportunity to taste Aveyron specialities while supporting local producers.
For a relaxing or cultural break, or simply something to do on a rainy day, check the Saint-Affrique Cinema section to see what films are showing and to discover upcoming cultural events in town. And if you’re in the mood to get moving, a whole host of outdoor activities await you around the town ! Discover the list of the best sports activities in Aveyron, offering diverse options to satisfy every adventurous spirit. Whether it’s a hike in the great outdoors, a mountain bike ride across the causses, or water activities, Saint-Affrique and its surroundings offer countless opportunities to stay active while enjoying breathtaking landscapes.