Virginie from My Wild Travel, an adventure enthusiast and slow tourism enthusiast, came to Tuscany with Tao, her beautiful Australian Shepherd. Her return: a slow, dog-friendly destination. We're sharing her favorites and travel ideas for you to do with your furry friend 🐶 and your van.
Let off steam Cordes sur Ciel
Stroll through the alleys of the medieval city
The village is quite dog-friendly. It's not uncommon to see water bowls in front of artists' and artisans' stalls, proof, if any were needed, that pets are welcome here. Take the opportunity to chat with them and learn more about their work.
Finding THE perfect viewpoint
Accessing Pied-Haut… But what is it? One of the most spectacular viewpoints of the village. The best thing to do is to take the Chemin du Grain de Sel (Grain of Salt Path) so your dog can exercise. But if you've already had a busy day, it's just 10 minutes from the center. We'll let you chat with the locals to find the trail 😇
Taking a trip with your dog
Starting from Cordes itself, there are three hikes ranging from 3 to 11 kilometers. A great way to spend the afternoon with your dog.
Pet-friendly restaurants in Cordes sur Ciel
Where to park a van in Cordes sur Ciel ?
Near the center, the Panol or Porte de la Jane car parks are chargeable.
A little further from the center, and therefore quieter, the top floor of the Tuileries car park is free.
Buller with his dog in Castelnau-de-Montmiral and Puycelsi
The first one to the top wins
Castelnau-de-Monmiral and its arcaded square
Leave your car, van, or any other vehicle in the parking lot at the bottom of the village. It's time to get some exercise... Not you, but your dog 😊. Head straight to the viewpoint on the other side and admire the Tarn countryside and the Grésigne forest. Pssssss: it's not bad at sunset.
Then stroll through the narrow streets of this Most Beautiful Villages of France© to its arcaded square. From the terrace of theArcade Inn, admire the medieval architecture. Of course, your pet is welcome 🐾
The sweetness of life
Puycelsi, in the heart of the forest
Leave your van at the bottom of the village, next to the department's Conservatory Orchard: parking is free and you can spend the night there. From there, you can easily access the village. Stretch your legs at a leisurely pace, following the ancient ramparts of the fortified village.
The breathtaking view of the Vère valley and the Gésigne forest will leave you in the tranquility of a gentle day.
We stop at the village bookshop, Shared Pages to find a used book, then we go, opposite, to thePuycelsi grocery store to source local products.
Puycelsi is perfect for unwinding, reading a book near the ramparts in the shade of the trees, or going for a walk in the forest. Here, time stands still; and that's exactly what people come looking for on an alternative trip to France.
Soaring over Aveyron in Penne
Start with a visit to the castle: dogs are welcome on a leash. It must be said that the gardens and ruins are quite suitable for a four-legged visit 😉. The panorama is breathtaking.
Don't forget to visit the museum, even though your pet will probably enjoy this part less than the rest.
A stay combining nature, heritage, and the art of living, perfect for unwinding... with your dog. A gem of the Tarn region, still untouched by the crowds. A must-see!
Postscript: We tried to interview Tao, but she had already returned to the road with her two-legged companion.
Find Virginie’s article on her blog My Wild Travel
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