Discover Varen: Monastery History and Hiking Trails

If you are looking for a hotel in Varen, you can choose how to explore the destination based on two interests: historic buildings and activities on the water or along hiking trails. The town’s history spans a Benedictine monastery and a former fortification; activities and hiking trails can be distinguished by their specific uses, lengths, and walking times. This gives you both a cultural and historical point of reference for planning your trip and ways to spend time outdoors.

Monastery History and Medieval Buildings

Varen developed in the 10th century around a Benedictine monastery founded by the Abbey of Aurillac. The Église Saint-Pierre was built in the 11th century and preserves exceptional carved capitals. The Ancien prieuré bénédictin building dates from the 14th century, connects the church and the château, and is the only surviving above-ground remnant of the former monastery. The chronology thus runs from the monastery’s origins to the church and then to a later building that connects the church and the château.

The Porte du Four is the last significant surviving remnant of Varen’s fortifications. This fits the town’s historical description as a former medieval village surrounded by walls. The monastery and church therefore sit alongside another aspect of the town’s history: its former fortifications. Considering the buildings’ history helps distinguish these different themes—the monastic development, the church’s design, and the village’s fortifications.

Activities on the Aveyron

The 3-kilometer stretch of water on the Aveyron near Varen is used for canoeing, fishing, and walking. These activities offer different ways to spend time along this stretch: on the water, fishing, or on foot. Conditions for water activities may vary depending on the season. If your travel plans depend on them, take this seasonal variation into account. The stretch of water and the hiking trails thus offer different ways to spend time outdoors without having to choose the same kind of activity.

Comparing Two Hiking Trails

The PR2 Varen: Chemin de Cadiès is 6.6 kilometers long and rated as an easy hiking trail; the walking time is about two hours. The PR1 Varen: De Sol Viel à Succaillac is longer at 13.9 kilometers and rated as moderate. The walking time for this trail is about four hours. The PR1 also offers two viewpoints overlooking Arnac and Varen. The trails therefore differ not only in length and time required, but also in this specific feature of their viewpoints.

In direct comparison, the PR2 is the shorter and easier option; for the PR1, expect a longer walking time and a moderately difficult route. Both time estimates are approximate. The PR2 starts at 66 Route de Cadiez. Check this starting point locally before setting out. As route details may change, it is a good idea to check the route information before your hike. This will help you choose a trail based on the time you have available and the level of difficulty you prefer; the PR1’s two viewpoints are an additional distinguishing feature.

Discover more destinations: Beaumont-De-Lomagne, Campsas, Durfort-Lacapelette, Vaïssac, Auvillar, Réalville, Orgueil, Laguépie.

For the regional travel overview: Tarn-Et-Garonne.