The rivers of Aveyron by train N°2
by Tim Leedham

The line of iron through the Aveyron Gorge is especially charming, criss-crossing that torrent by multiple elegant spans and threading rocky spurs by an equivalent number of driven tunnels. Then we are joined by the Viaur and soon we take the Cérou tributary southwards before tunnelling the watershed into the downstream Tarn. After the vineyards of Gaillac we cross another rocky ridge to attain the valley of the Garonne. Approaching Toulouse main station the steam enthusiast glimpses the beguiling outline of a 141R locomotive restored for working special excursions.

(Capdenac-arrival of TER Train from Clermont-Ferrand bound for Toulouse)

The TGV section of our voyage is rapid, prompt and comfortable, although slightly devious as already mentioned. Changing at Beziers we are treated to fast freights being whistled past our noses, and also to the Catalan Talgo (see on the left), a unique form of dual gauge international passenger train.

Then upon a lesser track called Voie C appears that joy of joys the eccentric branch line train. The station locotracteur has delivered just two compartment coaches and an electric locomotive vintage 1960 backs on, connects to the air conditioning power supply and at 18.29 we depart all stations to Millau via the Orb Valley.

Our mini-express takes the single track at 75mph (120kph) on the coastal plain and 50mph (80kph) on the twisting mountain grades. Punctuality is again excellent and at all stops including the remote mountain fastness of Ceilhes-Roqueredonde we wait time. The reason for the incredibly smooth ride on the endless reverse curvature is apparent when we cross the maintenance gang still working at seven in the evening.
Finally we halt at Tournemire-Roquefort in the valley of the Soulzon thirteen hours after departure. Our circuit is complete and we are topographically triumphant with 57 tunnels and 45 viaducts for the day's work. But who was counting the rivers ?

Tim Leedham

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