Saint-Geniez-d’Olt: a town of character on the banks of the Lot river
Are you looking for a tourist destination that combines history, nature and gourmet delights? What if your next vacation took you to
Saint-Geniez-d’Olt: a small town with character, rich in history
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the gentle charm of this village, which has been awarded the “Petite Cité de Caractère” label since 2021. Saint-Geniez-d’Olt lies between the Lot valley, the Aubrac and the Causses. The village is a veritable history book. Founded in the Middle Ages, its architecture bears witness to a rich past. Did you know? The inhabitants, nicknamed the “Marmots”, take their name from a touching legend: the story of children saved from a flood by a marmot that has been passed down from generation to generation. A stroll through the center of Saint-Geniez-d’Olt allows you to admire listed monuments:
The Cloître des Augustins opens its doors to you, where the Office de tourisme des Causses à l’Aubrac is now located. A perfect starting point for your visit.
Address: le Cloître, St-Geniez-d’Olt, 12130 Saint-Geniez-d’Olt-et-d’Aubrac, about 30 minutes by car from your campsite.
The Pénitents noirs chapel, a listed monument since 1979. Its painted wooden ceiling and 18th-century altar, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, are treasures to be discovered during guided tours in July and August for individuals, and all year round for groups (booking required).
Address: rue du Cours, St-Geniez-d’Olt, 12130 Saint-Geniez-d’Olt-et-d’Aubrac, 25 km from our mobile homes.
Strolling from right bank to left bank via the Pont Vieux (Old Bridge) across the Lot, the charm of the old stonework is a constant. Every street corner in Saint-Geniez-d’Olt tells a story from the Middle Ages and the centuries that followed.
Between land and river: activities for the whole family
Saint-Geniez-d’Olt is an ideal tourist destination for outdoor enthusiasts! Stretching along both banks of the Lot river, the town is also close to the Aubrac plateau. This location gives you access to a wide range of activities.
Hiking
For a leisurely stroll, why not venture out on one of our hiking trails?
- Au fil du Barribès: a 4.7 km loop along the banks of the stream, for an average 2h15 walk, ideal for cooling off in the undergrowth. Start at rue du Cours, 12130 St Geniez d’Olt et d’Aubrac, 25 km from our campsite.
- Le sentier des Vaysseries: this family-friendly loop of over 4 km, which can be completed in 1 hour 35 minutes, will take you to the heights for unobstructed views over the village of Saint-Geniez-d’Olt. Start at the crossroads of Avenue de Saint-Laurent and Avenue de la Gare.
- Head for Aubrac: if you’re a seasoned walker, the GR® de Pays du Tour des Monts d’Aubrac is accessible from the village for a more sporting adventure (18.68 km on average, 8h20).
Water activities
But water is another source of leisure! The Lot lends itself to all kinds of water activities. You can rent a canoe, kayak or paddle and admire the town from the water. If you want to enjoy the Lot valley, the Avenga multi-activity base is a good place to go for water sports. Access: route de la Cascade, St-Geniez-d’Olt, 12130, Saint-Geniez-d’Olt-et-d’Aubrac, 27 km from our campsite. Price guide: paddle, canoe and kayak rentals are €9/person. Supervised activities range from €10 to €30.
Saint-Geniez-d’Olt: the promise of a tasty getaway
A visit to Saint-Geniez-d’Olt would not be complete without a visit to its restaurants. The region’s cuisine features local products such as :
- Aligot, an unmissable speciality. This creamy purée with fresh Aubrac tome cheese is a dish that will give you energy for the rest of the day!
- Tripoux and farçous, often eaten at markets.
Looking for addresses?
- Le Lion d’Or (place du Cours, 12130 St Geniez d’Olt et d’Aubrac): this family-run restaurant in the heart of the village is ideal for traditional cuisine.
- La Crêperie Chez Antoinette (4 Pl. du Marché, 12130 St Geniez d’Olt et d’Aubrac): if you’ve got a sweet tooth, this is the perfect place, with a view of the Pont Vieux.
- Le Buron de la Truque (251 Av. de la Gare, 12130 St Geniez d’Olt et d’Aubrac): for an authentic experience, climb up to Aubrac to taste an aligot in a shepherd’s house.
Saint-Geniez-d’Olt, an ideal starting point
Saint-Geniez-d’Olt ‘s location in the Pays d’Olt et d’Aubrac makes it easy to explore the surrounding area. In less than an hour’s drive, you can discover other Aveyron wonders.
- Sainte-Eulalie-d’Olt, just 29 km from our campsite, is another “Plus Beaux Villages de France”. Its flower-filled facades, fortified Romanesque church and medieval streets make it a real favorite.
- Saint-Côme-d’Olt: this medieval village, 43 km from our campsite, is famous for its unique twisted bell tower!
So pack your backpack, put on your best shoes and come and visit Saint-Geniez-d’Olt! The charm of Aveyron awaits you, just a stone’s throw from your room! Don’t hesitate to book your vacation now. See you soon at our Les Calquières campsite!