At the entrance to the Gorges de la Pierre-Lys, the Aude separates Belvianes on the left bank from Cavirac on the right. River scenery, striking cliffs, hiking trails and water activities give the area a variety of facets. When planning your stay, you can decide whether views and hiking, climbing or water sports should take centre stage. The places and activities below offer some concrete ideas to help you decide.
River, gorge and striking rock formations
The Belvédère du Diable viewpoint offers a unique view of the Gorges de la Pierre-Lys and the “Murailles du Diable” (Devil’s Walls), the steep cliffs above the Aude. The Echine du Diable is another striking rock barrier, known among climbers. The viewpoint, gorge and rock formations each provide a distinctive landmark in the landscape.
The Forêt des Fanges also shapes the area’s natural character: this protected state forest consists of beech and fir woodland and has rocky, steep slopes. The ZNIEFF entry for the Forêt des Fanges has the national identifier 910030124 and lists Belvianes-et-Cavirac as one of the municipalities covered; the entry is dated 12 June 2024. A hiking trail and numerous other paths run through the forest. There is also a shelter there.
Hiking and wildlife
One specific route is “Les seigneurs des murailles du diable”: it is 3 km long, takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and starts at the church car park in Belvianes. The estimated duration can help you plan your day; check trail conditions locally. Bearded vultures, golden eagles, Egyptian vultures, lammergeiers and peregrine falcons are considered characteristic species along the route. However, sightings of these birds are not guaranteed.
Vultures nest in the cliffs of the Gorges de la Pierre Lys. Their presence is seasonal, and the birds are sensitive to disturbance. If you plan to include wildlife in your outings, take these conditions into account and keep a sufficient distance from the animals.
Climbing the cliffs
The Gorges de la Pierre Lys are a climbing area with at least a hundred recorded routes. Most are multi-pitch routes more than 100 metres long. Before climbing, check route status and any restrictions.
The approach to Rocher école à Cavirac follows the former railway line, then continues along a path before the tunnel. Parking is available beyond the bridge over the Aude. As access details may change, confirm them before setting off. This lets you plan the approach and parking separately from your choice of a longer climbing route.
Water sports and heritage
From its base in Belvianes-et-Cavirac, Aude Aventure offers rafting, canyoning and hydrospeed. Activities may be seasonal; if one of them is a key part of your stay, check what is available when planning. From spring onwards, rafting boats also often land near the Trou du Curé at the entrance to the Gorges de la Pierre-Lys.
A cultural highlight is the Church of Saint-Jacques de Cavirac. It houses a reredos tabernacle dating from the 17th century, which was classified as a historic monument on 6 May 1975. This offers a specific piece of local heritage alongside the area’s landscapes and activities.
Discover more destinations: Malves-En-Minervois, Homps, Plavilla, Routier, Gaja-Et-Villedieu, Roquefère, Conilhac-Corbières, Chalabre.
For the broader travel overview: Aude.
