What to see and do in Compeyre, a medieval village between Aveyron and Lozère
In southern Aveyron, just 10 km from Millau, Compeyre is a village with a rich medieval past. It’s also a Mecca for wine, having built its reputation on its cellars and fleurines. Discover Compeyre!
A village perched between Millau and the Gorges du Tarn
Downstream from the Tarn gorges, on the southern slopes of the Causse de Sauveterre, the perched village of Compeyre, which means “fields of stones” in Occitan, is an inviting place to stroll. Its ancient ramparts, steep cobbled streets, old houses and underground cellars make it a unique place, full of charm.
Attached to Millau until the 12th century, Compeyre became independent in 1339 when King Philippe VI granted it the status of “royal town”. An ancient fortified town, Compeyre once controlled the strategic road linking the Tarn valley to Millau, as well as the Lumensonesque valley to Séverac and the upper Gévaudan.
Free guided tours during the summer
Free tours take place throughout the summer, from June to September. Strolling through the streets of the medieval town, visitors discover the nooks and crannies of the old village and its most secret spots. Alleys, local stone calades and golden houses with lauze roofs will reveal their secrets.
The town of Aveyron boasts a rich medieval heritage, including the Porte du Valat, known as the “Royal Gate”, the English well and the Sesteyral, one of the best-preserved grain markets in the south of France, as well asthe Church of Saint-Vincent and the Lagarde dovecote, both listed as historic monuments.
The medieval part of the village, set against the southern flank of the Causse de Sauveterre, offers a breathtaking view of the Tarn and Lumençon valleys. The Château de Compeyre, built on a rocky spur, has watched over the entrance to the Tarn Gorge since the 11th century. You can’t visit the interior of the castle, but you can admire it from the outside.
The “caves à fleurines” at Compeyre, a winegrowing heritage of the South Aveyron region
Compeyre wine, particularly prized by the popes of Avignon, forged the village’s reputation in the Middle Ages. Winegrowers from the upper Tarn valley used to store their wine here.
The Compeyre cellars were renowned for their fleurines, as were the Roquefort cellars. These natural faults in the rock maintain a temperature of between 8 and 12 degrees all year round. More than a hundred wine cellars can be found in the village’s basements. An association of 15 winegrowers, called “Les Sampettes”, is responsible for managing and running the restored cellars.
Thanks to the introduction of noble grape varieties, Côtes de Millau wines were awarded AOC (appellation d’origine contrôlée) status in 2011. Red wines represent the largest volume, along with rosé wines, while white wine production is more limited.
Time to eat!
Where to eat in Compeyre? The Terminus. This family-run restaurant, run by Franck and Laure, farmers and free-range pig breeders, offers generous cuisine featuring local Aveyron produce. Home-made charcuterie, grilled pork, grilled sausage, fried potatoes, sheep’s cheese… Everything is prepared with love, in a friendly atmosphere, at very reasonable prices.
Where to stay camping near Compeyre
Just 20 km from Compeyre, the 5-star Les Calquières campsite welcomes you to the heart of Aveyron. In addition to mobile homes and traditional pitches at the gateway to the Gorges du Tarn, Cocoon hotel pods and tent lodges have been added. The indoor swimming pool, bar-restaurant and pampering spa will make your stay even more comfortable.