Raspes du Tarn & Dourdou Valley
Xavier Waerzeggers
Saint-Affrique

Raspes du Tarn & Dourdou Valley

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The Raspes escarpments are a balcony of rocks overlooking the Tarn. They provide you with a series of uphill and downhill sections interspersed with majestic sceneries – an atypical route dedicated to experienced riders. 

From the outset, the ascent to the Causse of Saint-Affrique sets the tone for this long-enduring and exhilarating loop. Gradually, you enter deep inside the Raspes, this wild canyon surrounding the meanders of the river Tarn. Finally, after a substantial effort, the Dourdou valley, villages, and red sandstone colours hold a gentle and well-deserved finish for you!

Description

  1. From the bike service station, follow the signs for “Town Centre / Albi.”
  2. At the intersection with the RD993, carry straight on, then take the first road to the right in the direction of Ayssennes / Le Truel to begin the ascent toward the plateau (6km with a 5% gradient).
  3. At the top of the slope, take a left towards Saint-Victor-et-Melvieu.
  4. After the Dolmen de Foncouverte area, head towards Saint-Rome de Tarn. Then ride across the village in the direction of Rodez.
  5. Once you’ve crossed the bridge, turn to the left to Le Viala du Tarn.
  6. After that, follow the direction of Ayssennes – Broquiès. Then, cycle along the Tarn up to the village of Le Truel.
  7. After the bridge, turn to the left to Broquiès, then to Saint-Izaire.
  8. Go through the village of Saint-Izaire to join the greenway cycle route along the Dourdou to Le Cambon.
    Turn left, cross the Savignac footbridge, then continue to Saint-Affrique via the RD54. Follow the signs for "Millau" to return to your starting point.
  • Departure : Mountain Bike Station, Rue du 12 Étoiles, Saint-Affrique
  • Arrival : Mountain Bike Station, Rue du 12 Étoiles, Saint-Affrique
  • Towns crossed : Saint-Affrique, Saint-Rome-de-Tarn, Viala-du-Tarn, Saint-Victor-et-Melvieu, Le Truel, Villefranche-de-Panat, Broquiès, Saint-Izaire, Calmels-et-le-Viala, and Vabres-l'Abbaye

Forecast

Altimetric profile

Transport

All the information is available on the Tourist Office website.

Access and parking

Saint-Affrique is situated 31 km southwest of Millau via the D992 and D999 roads.

Parking :

Mountain bike station car park, rue du 12 Étoiles, Saint-Affrique

Source

Espace CYCLOSPORT FFC

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