Cordes sur Ciel, by its name, evokes a village perched in the sky. At dawn, we imagine its stones full of history being dazzled by the sun. Sometimes, if the weather permits, the village appears in a sea of clouds. A timeless place of which the author Albert Camus counted wonders. Its remarkable architectural heritage is lined with fortifications and many doors welcome us to the heart of a magic of yesteryear.
One of the Most Beautiful Villages in France®
Cordes sur Ciel is 800 years of history that slip away with every step. The foundation of the city, considered one of the first "bastides" in the region, dates back to November 4, 1222 and was made official by the young Count of Toulouse Raymond VII.
On the trampled cobblestones, we discover a high place of European heritage. You only have to raise your head to see the sculpted facades, magnified by time and Gothic art. To gain height, you will have to climb. Fortunately, the galleries and craftsmen's workshops will make you forget this detail, until you reach the highest point without even noticing. The beauty of the place will be matched only by the time spent by its side, where art and culture mingle with the history of a rich past.
EnQuête(s), the app to discover the secrets of the medieval city
Freeze frame at the Halle and near the well
The Halle was built in 1350 to accommodate the weaving and leather trade. Thanks to this trade, Cordes sur Ciel experienced exceptional growth and it was the merchants and a few nobles who built the sumptuous Gothic palaces that can be admired today.
Under the hall, we discover the “well” of Cordes, one hundred meters deep, as well as to its left the wrought iron cross. Opposite the Hall, stands impunity the Maison du Grand Fauconnier, extended by the Maisons Prunet and Carrié-Boyer.
The traveler who, from the terrace of Cordes, looks out at the summer night, knows that he has no need to go further and that, if he wishes, the beauty here, day after day, will remove him from all solitude.
What to do in Cordes?
Discover the artists’ studios…
Along its main streets, a multitude of shapes and colours decorate the white stones of the City. Many artists have taken up residence in Cordes sur Ciel. If you are curious, do not hesitate to push open the doors of their studios. Browse the paintings, sculptures or ceramics and let yourself be carried away by the imagination they inspire, then meet passionate artists ready to share with you the secrets of their works.
…and the craftsmen
Delve into the heart of matter with these women and men who have mastered the art of transformation. In the hands of the goldsmith, a simple stone becomes a unique jewel, the cutler transforms steel into a sharp blade, the blank page is adorned with a thousand colors under the illuminator's pen and the ceramist shapes clay to make a vibrant piece. Explore this community of art artisans, where matter and creativity meet to offer original pieces.
In the open air
Cordes, a playground for explorers and hikers
Besides the obvious cultural side of Cordes sur Ciel, the destination also offers nature explorations. Climbing, tree climbing, hiking, canoeing , there are many possibilities available to visitors.
From Cordes sur Ciel or all around, in Occitan Tuscany, beautiful paths crisscross the landscapes. There is something for all tastes and all levels! Discover the hikes starting from Cordes.
Good plan for children : on the Garissou estate, in the heart of a wood of century-old oaks, the park Accro-Tyro offers 10 treetop adventure courses for beginners and experts. On the program: rope bridges, zip lines, Tarzan jumps and many others.
The museums of Cordes
After the effort, the comfort...
Walking the cobbled streets of Cordes sur Ciel tends to work up an appetite. Fortunately, local specialties are there to satisfy small and large hungers. Delicatessens, restaurants, bakeries… Whether on the go or for a longer break, Cordes sur Ciel will not fail to spice up each visit.
Restaurants around Cordes
Accommodation near Cordes sur Ciel
Partner accommodations in Cordes-sur-Ciel and the surrounding area. This content is featured as part of a paid partnership.
