In Aujols, the history of washhouses, historic châteaux and striking landforms come together. The “Papillon” washhouse tells of the work once done at the washing place; the Igues d’Aujols and the Conquettes Valley show different sides of the landscape. Two walking routes are also described with practical details to help you plan: a moderate walk of about three hours and a 12-kilometre circular route. This lets you balance cultural history and nature according to your interests.

Washhouses and their history

The “Papillon” washhouse is a distinctive feature of the Causse de Limogne. Its name comes from the V-shape of the limestone slabs against which washerwomen beat their laundry. In Aujols, 20 washhouses stand in a row, forming an exceptionally large complex. The former “Papillon” washhouse has lost its original function and now serves as a place for relaxation and remembrance. Its form and present-day use thus tell two different chapters: washing at the washhouse and its role as a place to pause and reflect.

Two historic châteaux

The Château des Cardaillac-Bioule occupied the upper part of Aujols’ village centre and was built in the second half of the 13th century. The Château d’Aujols, now known as “Les Créneaux”, has a different history. It was probably gradually abandoned from the beginning of the 16th century; by the 18th century, it was a ruin.

The different dates help distinguish these historic landmarks: one reflects a building phase in the 13th century, while the other marks the decline of a château, which probably began in the 16th century. Anyone interested in architectural history can thus explore two distinctly different periods in the village’s history.

Igues and habitats

A secure viewpoint offers a view of the Igue de la Ramade, the largest of the three Igues d’Aujols. The steep walls of the igues provide a natural habitat for many remarkable and protected bird species. The igues are protected and enhanced as part of the Lot Department’s “Espaces naturels sensibles” policy.

The Conquettes Valley has a different landscape: the Grotte des Conquettes lies below rocky escarpments in a narrow, shaded valley. The hillsides are covered with wooded heathland and stony, dry grassland. This landscape is a remarkable biodiversity reservoir that should be protected. Along with the steep walls of the igues, the Conquettes offer another perspective on local habitats.

Walking: comparing distance and duration

The “Balade de Puits en Lavoirs” starts at Aujols town hall. This moderate walking route is 10.5 kilometres long and takes about three hours. Another option is a 12-kilometre circular walk from the village to the Igues d’Aujols.

Different details are useful when comparing the routes: for the “Balade de Puits en Lavoirs”, you can weigh up the distance, difficulty and approximate duration together; the other route is described as a circular walk with the igues as its destination. The second route is longer, while an approximate duration is given for the first. Check the route conditions before setting out on either walk.

Discover more destinations: Crégols, Puy-L'evéque, Lalbenque, Bagnac, Belmont-Bretenoux, Concorès, Catus, Terrou

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