On the banks of the Tarn and close to Toulouse, Rabastens has always maintained a close link with the pink city. This is largely linked to the wine trade and then to the pastel trade. The gabarres went down the Tarn, a real commercial highway, and served the ports of the Garonne. Their cargoes were then distributed throughout Europe.
Rabastens, the artistocrat!
Rabastens, a magnificent red brick city that glows in the setting sun, has preserved a tradition of holiday and residence in the Toulouse hinterland.
Having remained loyal to the Counts of Toulouse, Rabastens had to abandon her military role in 1229 in accordance with the Treaty of Paris which put an end to the Albigensian Crusade. On the 17the and 18e centuries, wine and pastel merchants, enriched by the growth of trade, will occupy positions as lawyers and advisors to the king in the parliament of Toulouse.
They will build magnificent private mansions which, by integrating with the more popular houses, will shape the timeless charm of the heart of the city.
Notre-Dame du bourg and the parish centre overlook the Tarn. The view from the ramparts over the Tarn and the banks is sublime. In summer, swimming is permitted, and “Rabastens-plage” then opens its doors!
Visit Rabastens differently
By downloading the EnQuête(s) app, push open forbidden doors and discover the secrets of Rabastens.
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Notre-Dame du Bourg, 700 years old and still well-dressed!
Rabastens is an old stop on the roads to Compostela. As early as 1240, a hospital was set up in the castle district. The old road that linked Lyon to Toulouse is still used today by pilgrims. The Notre-Dame du Bourg church was built between 1230 and 1260 on the initiative of the Benedictine monks of Moissac. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the remarkable sites on the roads to Santiago de Compostela.
Rabastens Market
On the Promenade des Lices which surrounds the old town on the site of the old ditches (filled in in the 19the century), every saturday morning the market is held. This is the day you have to come to Rabastens! All the colors, scents, and flavors of the region come together for this very popular weekly meeting between producers and residents.
The Vinovalie cooperative
History Rabastens is closely linked to the Gaillac vineyards that surround the city. Push open the door of the winegrowers, they will be delighted to welcome you to their estate or stop at the Vinovalie cellar, a winegrowers’ cooperative located in Rabastens, to choose the best rosés, the liveliest whites and the most supple reds.
Any questions? Go to the tourist office
Go to the tourist information office located in the lobby of the Rabastin Country Museum (you will be able to enjoy temporary and permanent exhibitions, such as the magnificent Giroussens pottery collections). Whether you are looking for a campsite, a hotel or a bed and breakfast, we will provide you with the best possible welcome to help you have the most wonderful stay.
For festivities, celebrate spring and August 15! Three days of popular festivals in the city, with rides, balls and flower cavalcades. The Moments Musicaux du Tarn celebrate classical music and take over the streets in July, the courtyards or even the castles, to share evenings to the sound of Rachmaninov, Brahms, Debussy or Satie. The Unis Sens festival gathers around world music in June, as for Rabastock, it offers 2 days in July that are always more "electric"!
| Opening hours from June 01, 2025 to September 21, 2026 | |
|---|---|
| Wednesday | Open from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 30 p.m. |
| Thursday | Open from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 30 p.m. |
| Friday | Open from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 30 p.m. |
| Sunday | Open from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 14 p.m. to 30 p.m. |
On Saturday morning, find us at the market, Promenade des Lices, with the green 2CV
