Rozier & Peyreleau, Occitanie, France
Rozier & Peyreleau — a riverside walk where the Tarn meets the Jonte
At the meeting point of two legendary rivers, the Tarn and the Jonte, stand the twin villages of Le Rozier and Peyreleau, perched on opposite banks and joined by a short bridge. The scenery here marks the transition between two famous canyons of southern France — limestone cliffs, calm waters and winding roads between the Causses. Le Rozier belongs to Lozère, Peyreleau to Aveyron, yet together they form one of the most charming gateways into the Tarn Gorge. Distances are small and the atmosphere relaxed: stone lanes, flowered balconies and several spots with wide panoramic views. It’s an ideal stop for a short walk, combining nature, architecture and a touch of local life.
Parking
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1. Peyreleau upper parking and trailhead
GPS: 44.188100, 3.208960
Description: Small gravel area above the village, giving quick access to the upper streets and to paths leading toward the Tour Carrée and the Capluc belvedere.
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2. Bridge viewpoint area (roadside stop)
GPS: 44.194230, 3.207180
Description: Short lay-by north of Le Rozier, suitable for quick photo breaks overlooking the river junction and surrounding cliffs. Space limited; avoid busy hours.
Exploring Rozier and Peyreleau
Start your walk on the Le Rozier side, close to the old stone bridge where the Jonte joins the Tarn. The first sight is the quiet Church of Saint-Sauveur (A; GPS: 44.191700, 3.206660), a simple Romanesque building that has watched over the valley for centuries. Around it, the village lanes weave between pale houses and vine-covered walls, always with a glimpse of water at the end of the street. The main square and its terrace cafés make a pleasant stop before heading uphill toward the belvedere.
A short marked path leads from the edge of Le Rozier to the Belvédère du Rocher de Capluc (B; GPS: 44.193300, 3.214410). The climb is brief but steep, offering spectacular views of the two rivers meeting far below. From the top you can see how the Jonte carves through its narrower canyon before opening into the Tarn valley. Griffon vultures often glide overhead, using the warm air rising from the cliffs. On clear days, the panorama stretches across the limestone plateaus of Causse Méjean and Causse Noir.
Return to the bridge and cross to the Aveyron side into Peyreleau (C; GPS: 44.188258, 3.208578). The change in angle gives a completely different perspective — here the houses climb in terraces, their narrow lanes winding up to the medieval Tour Carrée (D; GPS: 44.188858252, 3.2078328922). This square tower once guarded the valley entrance and today serves as a natural viewpoint over the confluence. Take your time through the alleys: there’s always a new arch, a sudden balcony or a tiny stone staircase leading to a view framed by cliffs and sky.
From Peyreleau, follow the easy lower path along the river for a few hundred metres toward the Tarn side. The walk ends near the remains of an old flood-damaged bridge (E; GPS: 44.19526866, 3.21064303), half hidden under vegetation. It’s a small but evocative reminder of the power of these rivers. The gentle flow, the scent of pine and juniper, and the calm of the twin villages make this short route a memorable pause between the larger gorges.
Where to eat and rest
After your walk, relax on the Le Rozier riverfront at L’Alicanta (Hôtel Doussière; GPS: 44.190383, 3.209108) — a verified restaurant known for trout, duck confit and regional cheeses served on a shaded terrace above the Jonte. For a lighter option, try Capluc Kfé (GPS: 44.190247, 3.209611), a casual café right by the water offering coffee, ice-cream and simple snacks.
What to eat
Local specialities from this part of Occitanie are simple but full of character. Try aligot — creamy mashed potatoes blended with melted tome cheese — or locally cured meats from the Grands Causses. Many menus also include lamb stewed with herbs, trout from nearby streams, and sweet pastries made with chestnut or mountain honey. Pair your meal with a glass of light regional wine and finish with local cheese such as Laguiole or Roquefort.
FAQ
Is it easy to visit both villages on foot?
Yes — Le Rozier and Peyreleau are connected by a short bridge, and the whole loop can be done comfortably in under an hour including photo stops.
Where is the best viewpoint?
The Belvédère du Rocher de Capluc above Le Rozier offers the most panoramic view over both rivers and the limestone cliffs, only a 15-minute climb.
Are there restaurants open all year?
L’Alicanta usually operates from spring to autumn, while smaller cafés such as Capluc Kfé open mainly from April to September — check locally in winter.
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