Discover Cassagnes-Bégonhès

Cassagnes-Bégonhès offers several specific ways to explore its history and landscape: a fortified bell tower, a circular walk following in the footsteps of historic glassmakers, a private botanical garden and opportunities to observe nature at Plan d’eau du Glandou. A village treasure hunt and activities offered by the Aéroclub du Ségala may also be of interest when planning your trip. You can weigh up whether to focus primarily on architecture, a hike lasting several hours, a garden visit or activities involving microlight aircraft.

Bell tower and traces of craftsmanship

In 1471, it was decided to build a fortified bell tower in Cassagnes-Bégonhès. The tower is 44 metres high and is integrated into the line of fortifications. Its lower section served as a prison for a long time; its layout provides access to the tower’s stairs. Local visiting arrangements may change. Check in advance if you would like to visit the tower.

Inside and around the windows are various architectural details: a remarkable ribbed star vault, a twelve-lobed rose window and Flamboyant-style windows. Below the château, Rue des Calquières is the last surviving trace of Cassagnes-Bégonhès’ historic tanning tradition. Together, the tower and street offer two specific ways to explore the area’s architectural and craft history.

Circular walk following in the footsteps of the glassmakers

“Le chemin des verriers” is a moderately difficult 8-kilometre circular route, with an estimated duration of around three hours. The route follows in the footsteps of historic glassmakers and passes the ruins of an old glass furnace on the left bank of the Viaur. The distance, difficulty level and approximate duration will help you estimate how much time to allow for this walk. Trail conditions may vary; check them before setting out.

Garden and nature watching

The private Jardin des plantes du Mourot covers 4,000 square metres and takes about an hour and a half to visit. The garden features roses, ponds, lilies, shrub peonies and hibiscus. This makes it possible to plan a visit separately from the longer circular walk. Opening arrangements may change; check in advance whether and when a visit is possible.

Plan d’eau du Glandou is a quiet, shady spot that is well suited to observing local wildlife and plant life. You can reach it by car via the departmental road, or on foot along the river. As local road conditions can change, take them into account when planning your journey.

Treasure hunt and Aéroclub activities

The village treasure hunt “Mystère à Cassagnes-Bégonhès” invites you to search for clues around the village. Participants follow a route marked on a map and solve nine puzzles. This combines finding your way around the village with a specific puzzle-solving challenge. If you plan to take part, check whether the booklet is available before your trip.

The Aéroclub du Ségala offers introductory flights in microlight aircraft and training to pilot multi-seat microlights; it also carries out parachute drops from microlight aircraft. These are distinct activities, ranging from first flights and training to parachute operations. So coordinate your plans with the Aéroclub in advance.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Salvadou, Sébrazac, Gaillac-d'Aveyron, Rignac, Camarès, Muret-Le-Château, Boussac, Les Angles.

For the regional travel overview: Aveyron.