The diversity of Salles-Curan is especially evident at Lac de Pareloup: the Plages des Vernhes are known for their beaches bearing the Pavillon Bleu label and the various activities available on the water. There is also fishing on the lake, a scenic hike and several cultural attractions. When planning your stay, it is worth first deciding whether you want to focus on water sports, fishing, or culture and scenery.
At Lac de Pareloup: Beaches and Water Sports
The Plages des Vernhes are beaches on Lac de Pareloup that have been awarded the Pavillon Bleu label. A footpath accessible to people with reduced mobility connects the two neighboring beaches. At the Plages des Vernhes, you can rent pedal boats, stand-up paddleboards, canoes and boats.
The CYVP offers sailing courses consisting of one to five two-hour sessions: in Optimists, on windsurfing boards, in dinghies or on catamarans. The courses range from a single two-hour session to a total of ten hours over five sessions. Optimist courses are suitable for children aged seven and over. The CYVP also rents out water sports equipment, from paddleboards to catamarans, and offers introductory trips on the lake. CYVP activities are seasonal; check before your trip whether they are available during your travel dates.
Fishing follows a different schedule: Lac de Pareloup is open to fishing year-round and is classified as a second-category fishing water. Excursions with Pareloup Pilot go to ĂŽle aux Serpents and ĂŽle aux Oiseaux. Pareloup Pilot also offers motorboat trips on Lac de Pareloup from Les Vernhes. Alongside courses and equipment rentals, fishing and excursions therefore offer different ways to focus your stay.
Hiking and Cultural Attractions
A scenic hike is another option: the “Vierge des Lacs” hike offers a viewpoint overlooking Lac de Pareloup. It offers a different experience from the activities on the water and may appeal to travelers who want to include a scenic viewpoint in their activities.
The statue of Notre Dame des Lacs, also known as the “Vierge des Lacs,” was erected in 1956 by J. P. Duroux to protect the newly created lakes. Another site with historical significance is the Commanderie des Canabières of the Hospitallers of Saint John of Jerusalem. It is considered the oldest Hospitaller foundation in the Rouergue, but can only be viewed from the outside.
The Musée Eugène Viala presents part of Eugène Viala’s work. The Château de Larguiès offers a different kind of visit: the guided tour of the exterior and garden takes about 45 minutes. Check before your trip whether this visit is available seasonally.
If you are looking for a hotel in Salles-Curan, your preferred focus can be a good starting point: seasonal water sports, year-round fishing, or culture and scenic views cater to different interests. First consider what matters most to you, then choose your planned activities accordingly.
Discover more destinations: Brandonnet, Capdenac-Gare, Coupiac, Compolibat, Onet-Le-Château, Almont-Les-Junies, Rodez, Saint-Rome-De-Tarn.
For the broader travel guide: Aveyron.
