Car Rental Rodez - Exploring Rodez
Driving around Rodez and the Midi (as it is nicknamed) is a delight, as the roads are free of traffic jams. Discover uncluttered landscapes, crystal clear rivers and fortified towns and villages. To the east in the Massif Central is Cevennes National Park.
To the southeast of Rodez on the heights of the Massif Central and enclosed on all sides by impressive white cliffs, lies the charming southern town of Missau. The old town is built back from the river to avoid the floods, and is contained within an almost circular ring of shady boulevards.
Of the three town squares, Foch is the prettiest, with its many cafés shaded by two big trees and bordered by houses supported on stone pillars. The Romanesque church of Notre-Dame stands in one corner and the very interesting Musée de Millau (Museum of Archaeology) stands in another.
To the southwest of Rodez, you’ll find the ‘red town’ of Albi. Built along the Tarn River, it is dominated by the intimidating red-brick Gothic Cathédrale of Ste Cécile. The cathedral was built in the 13th century, and its tall towers and narrow window slits look more defensive than spiritual. Of particular interest are the fine Gothic vaultings and the 15th century frescoes inside the single nave.
Next to the cathedral is the Palais de la Berbie, which has lovely terraced gardens overlooking the river. Inside, you’ll find the Musée Toulouse-Lautrec, which houses the most complete collection of the work of this Albi-born artist.
West of Rodez and encircled by the meandering River Lot, Cahors is a sleepy little town famous for its rich, dark wine and its busy market. The principal attraction is the 14th century bridge, Pont Valentré, with seven arches spanning the river.
The tree-lined ‘Boulevard Gambetta’ is the town’s main street, and is named after a famous radical who was born here. Nearby, hidden within the old streets of the town, is the Cathédrale St Etienne with its fine 12th century bell tower and delightful Renaissance cloisters. The Mont Saint Cyr, across the river, affords spectacular views of the whole town.
