Millau Travel Guide

Millau, a picturesque town in southern France, is nestled in the Aveyron department and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Renowned for its engineering marvel, the Millau Viaduct, and rich history, town offers an unforgettable mix of cultural charm and outdoor adventure. Here’s your comprehensive travel guide to Millau.

Essential Information About Millau

  • Location: Aveyron department, Occitanie region, Southern France.
  • Population: Approximately 22,000.
  • Language: French.
  • Currency: Euro (€).
  • Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May–September) for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.

Interesting Facts About Millau

  1. Millau Viaduct: Opened in 2004, this record-breaking cable-stayed bridge spans the Tarn River valley, standing 343 meters tall at its highest point.
  2. Leathercraft Legacy: This town is famous for its high-quality glove-making tradition, supplying luxury brands like Hermès and Chanel.
  3. Outdoor Paradise: Town is located at the gateway to Grands Causses Regional Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  4. Paragliding Hub: Known as a paragliding hotspot, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
  5. Historical Significance: Millau’s history stretches back to Roman times when it was an important pottery production center.

How to Get There

By Air

  • Closest airports:
    • Rodez–Aveyron Airport (RDZ) (1 hour’s drive).
    • Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport (MPL) (2 hours’ drive).

By Train

  • Millau has a local train station connected to nearby cities like Rodez and Toulouse. High-speed TGV lines are accessible from Montpellier or Béziers.

With Car

  • From Paris: Around 7 hours via the A75 motorway (free section includes the Millau Viaduct).
  • From Toulouse or Montpellier: 2–3 hours’ drive.

By Bus

  • Regional bus services connect Millau to towns like Rodez, Montpellier, and Clermont-Ferrand.

Best Things to Do

  1. Visit the Millau Viaduct
    • Drive across or admire this engineering marvel from dedicated viewpoints like the Belvédère de Viaduc or the Aire du Viaduc service area.
  3. Explore Grands Causses Regional Natural Park
    • Ideal for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting amidst limestone plateaus and gorges.
  4. Tarn Gorges
    • Embark on a canoeing or kayaking adventure through these breathtaking river gorges.
  5. Leather Workshops
    • Tour traditional glove-making ateliers and learn about Millau’s leathercraft heritage.
  6. Old Town
    • Stroll through cobblestone streets, visiting landmarks like the 12th-century Bell Tower and the historic Beffroi de Millau.
  7. Roquefort Caves
    • Discover the origins of the famous blue cheese in nearby Roquefort-sur-Soulzon.

Best Accommodation Options 

Luxury

  • Château de Creissels
    • A 12th-century castle converted into a boutique hotel with views of the Millau Viaduct.
  • Hôtel Mercure Millau
    • Modern comforts with excellent service and a central location.

Mid-Range

  • Hotel La Capelle Millau
    • A charming hotel with spacious rooms and a terrace overlooking the countryside.
  • Domaine de Saint-Estève
    • Offers contemporary chalets with stunning views of the viaduct.

Budget

  • Hôtel Ibis Millau
    • Affordable, clean, and located near the town center.
  • Camping Les Erables
    • Perfect for nature lovers seeking budget-friendly accommodation.

Cultural and Modern Attractions

  1. Musee de Millau et des Grands Causses
    • Explore exhibits on local archaeology, leatherworking, and Roman pottery.
  2. Ganterie de Millau
    • Visit a traditional glove factory to witness the intricate craftsmanship.
  3. Templar and Hospitaller Villages
    • Discover medieval sites like La Couvertoirade, which offers a glimpse into the region’s knightly history.

Dining and Nightlife in Millau

  • Local Specialties:
    • Aligot: Mashed potatoes blended with cheese and garlic.
    • Roquefort Cheese: A staple of the region.
    • Farcous: Savory pancakes with herbs and meat.
  • Top Restaurants:
    • L’Ardoise: Known for its creative French cuisine.
    • Auberge du Roc Banut: A rustic dining spot offering local flavors.
  • Nightlife:
    • Millau’s nightlife is low-key, centered around cozy wine bars and local pubs. Le Garaluna and La Loco are popular options.

Day Trips from Millau

  1. Roquefort-sur-Soulzon
    • Tour the famous cheese caves and sample Roquefort varieties.
  2. La Couvertoirade
    • A well-preserved Templar village offering medieval charm.
  3. Sévérac-le-Château
    • Visit the hilltop castle and enjoy panoramic views.
  4. Larzac Plateau
    • Known for its rugged beauty and historical sites tied to the Knights Templar.
  5. Montpellier-le-Vieux
    • A fascinating labyrinth of limestone rock formations.

Getting Around 

  • On Foot: The compact town center is easily walkable.
  • Public Transport: Limited bus services connect nearby towns.
  • Car Rental: Recommended for exploring the surrounding countryside and natural attractions.
  • Biking: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous cycling routes.

Practical Tips for Visiting Millau

  1. Weather: Pack layers, as temperatures can vary between day and night.
  2. Driving: Familiarize yourself with French road rules, and enjoy free tolls on the A75 motorway.
  3. Respect Nature: Follow guidelines in protected areas like the Tarn Gorges.
  4. Plan Ahead: Book tickets for popular attractions, especially during peak travel seasons.
  5. Local Markets: Visit the weekly market in Millau’s town square for fresh produce and regional goods.

Conclusion

Millau offers an extraordinary mix of natural wonders, historical landmarks, and innovative engineering. Whether marveling at the Millau Viaduct, exploring medieval villages, or venturing into the rugged Tarn Gorges, this charming town will captivate travelers of all interests. With its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking surroundings, town is a destination that promises unforgettable memories. Plan your trip today!

Millau, France
Millau, France
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