OFF THE BIKE

MILLAU VIADUCT

The highest bridge in the world is an epic feat of engineering, but riding across it on the A75 motorway isn’t the best way to appreciate it: the best views are from the valleys. There is a visitors’ centre if you want to learn more about how it was built. (leviaducdemillau.com)

ABIME DE BRAMABIAU

Walk along this underground river, following it until it emerges from a giant underground cave as a magical waterfall. (abime-de-bramabiau.com)

CONQUES

This fantastically-preserved Medieval village is one of the most beautiful in France, complete with pocket-sized cathedral – a fine destination for a daytrip or short visit. (tourisme-conques.fr)

CHATEAU DE BELCASTEL

A magnificently-restored castle, towering protectively over a beautiful historic village. Just be aware that it’s a bit of a walk from the village up to the château. (chateaudebelcastel.com)

MONTPELLIER-LE-VIEUX

This is a UNESCO World Heritage site near Millau, famed for its bizarre rock formations. There are walks to follow and if you’re energetic, try climbing the hair-raising via ferrata… or you could just sit on the sight-seeing train. (montpellierlevieux.com)

RODEZ

With a magnificent cathedral, well-preserved centre, three museums, markets and plenty of fine restaurants, Rodez has lots to offer on a day off the bike. (tourisme.grand-rodez.com)

MONT AIGOUAL OBSERVATORY

The observatory and weather station at the top of Mont Aigoual offers spectacular views and a free exhibition. (www.aigoual.asso.fr)

GROTTE DE TRABUC

Underground attractions offer a cooling break from the midday sun. The caves at Trabuc come with an English audio guide. (grotte-de-trabuc.com)

TOULOUSE-LAUTREC

The compact city of Albi is a jewel, with its fine cathedral and old-world charm –plus a fantastic museum dedicated to the artist Toulouse-lautrec. (museetoulouselautrec.net)