Between mountains, forests, rivers and vineyards, this territory with many faces has a character that does not leave you indifferent. From its vineyard to its Occitan architecture, let yourself be guided by its landscapes, sometimes revitalizing, sometimes surprising, as you stroll.
Approach the “Vineyard of 7 Wines” of Tarn
Le Gaillac vineyard extends on both banks of the eponymous river, eastwards to Albi and northwards to the medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel. Its three slopes of specific geological nature offer it both terraces of pebbles or sand gravel, hillsides of clay-limestone soils and a Cordais plateau of white soils. As you crisscross the roads of these Tarn vineyards, you will feel the best of the Occitan climate, between oceanic mildness and Mediterranean warmth. The oldest vineyard in the South-West, but still discreet, it is full of riches and produces very good wines that are not limited to Gaillac Primeur. Today, the appellation extends over approximately 3 ha and has 300 cooperative wineries and 3 independent producers. The region is called Gaillac the “Vineyard with 7 wines” because it has no less than 7 AOCs. Dry white, sweet white, fresh pearly white, sparkling white, red, primeur, rosé, every palate finds something to suit them and satisfies their tasting desires.
Hiking on the Causse, between valleys and plateaus, towards Cordes-sur-Ciel
The Causse trail loop begins in Souel, a small village whose name comes from Occitan and means “sun”. Before joining Cordes-sur-Ciel, the walk invites you to stroll through a hilly landscape where plots of vines, cultivated fields, meadows and small woods alternate. A pretty lake, some beautiful restored houses and a small chapel nestled in the hollow of a valley embellish this rural route. Not forgetting the superb views of the city of Cordes-sur-Ciel, classified as a Grand Site of Midi-Pyrénées, which are worth immortalizing in photos. Once you arrive at the foot of the splendid fortified town founded in 1222, we advise you to walk for a long time along the winding streets that will take you to the top of the hill, before leaving again at the time when the sun sets, diving behind the hills.
Average duration: 3h35
Distance: 10 km
Looking towards the horizon, camped on the cliff of a Tarn city
Getting to know the hilltop villages of the Tarn is an opportunity to get off the beaten track, between fields of wheat and sunflowers, cypresses and forests, where the most beautiful cities are revealed. Castelnau-de-Montmiral, Ropes on the sky, Lisle-sur-tarn or, Puycelsi, all of which unfold their alleys full of stories and thrilling tales. Also explore the preserved architecture of confidential places such as the Penne Castle and its incredible view of the Gorges de l'Aveyron and the Grésigne forest below. From the top of this eagle's nest with its dizzying cliffs, such varied and inspiring nature is revealed before your eyes.
Ideas for getaways
De Cordes sur Ciel in Penne, Virginie and Tao's dog-friendly outing
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