The Diège Valley divides the municipality of Naussac. On the Naussac side are the Terrefort and the Causse; Bez de Naussac belongs to the Ségala. These different landscape connections are also reflected in the name of the hiking route, “Entre Causse et Ségala – Naussac” (Between Causse and Ségala – Naussac). This offers different perspectives for planning a trip: the landscape and hiking route on the one hand, and the history of buildings and mills on the other.
Hiking route with a view of Naussac
The “Entre Causse et Ségala – Naussac” route is a moderately challenging 10.8-kilometre hike. It takes about three hours, and along the way you can enjoy a view of the village of Naussac. The starting point is at Naussac’s recreation area. The route, duration and starting point provide practical details for planning a day of hiking; however, the time is only an estimate. As route information and the starting point may change, check the latest information before setting out.
Château de Marinesque and chapel
The Château de Marinesque is located in Naussac; its main construction phase dates to the 14th century. The building comprises a rectangular residential structure with a stair tower, as well as a wall walk with machicolations and battlements. The façades and roofs have been partially protected as a Monument historique since 18 July 1973. These architectural features and its protected status offer several concrete starting points for exploring the château’s architecture and history.
A smaller, distinct detail of local cultural history is the Pietà statue above the door of the chapel in Naussac. The restored statue is still visible there. Together with the château, it shows that heritage can be found in more than just a large building.
Mill history and demonstrations
The Moulin de Cavaillac is a working 18th-century watermill in Naussac. A full guided tour of the mill is available; as visiting arrangements may change, it is advisable to enquire in advance. Demonstrations include grinding flour with grain millstones, making walnut oil with a vertical millstone, and sawing. These demonstrations are not held from September to November because of water shortages. This seasonal restriction applies to the demonstrations, so plan them separately from the tour and check the latest arrangements before visiting.
The mills on the Diège also had regional importance: they ground grain for Naussac, Sonnac and Asprières. This historical context broadens the perspective beyond a single mill without limiting the history of milling to just one place.
Horse riding, walnuts and festivals
The Ranch des Centaurées teaches behaviour-based Western riding. It also offers riding lessons and horseback rides, as well as courses, guidance and training sessions. These activities are listed for 2026; details may change. Anyone interested in horses and riding will find a different kind of experience here from the hike or the visits.
At La Noyeraie de la Borie, the walnut harvest and the craft production of walnut oil are the focus of the visits. Demonstrations of walnut processing and tastings are also offered. Visits are by appointment; check the latest visiting and booking arrangements in advance.
Events organised by local associations in Naussac include votive festivals in early July and early August. Exact dates may vary from year to year. If a festival is important to your travel plans, check the dates for the relevant year.
Discover more destinations: Sainte-Radegonde, Buzeins, La Cresse, Sauveterre-De-Rouergue, Connac, Versols-Et-Lapeyre, Rignac, Villefranche-De-Rouergue
For the broader travel overview: Aveyron.
