To see nearby
As well as Castelnau, other picturesque ‘perched’ villages, fortified bastides and medieval cities await exploration nearby, each with their own atmosphere and history to tell; often beset by sieges and attacks, but other times flourishing due to a specialist trade or being a stop-off for pilgrims. Two not to miss are Puycelsi and Cordes-sur-Ciel…
Planted on its rocky outcrop, the fortified village of Puycelsi seems to rise mystically from the forest, offering one of the most beautiful views of the region. There are also nice restaurants to discover along the narrow streets. Cordes-sur-Ciel is another lovely hilltop village, an important Cathar town and a stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. A classical music festival takes place here at the end of July every year.
There are also some remarkable gardens to discover in the area, such as the Jardin des Paradis near Cordes, Les Jardins des Martels near Giroussens or Les Jardins du Quercy near Verfeil sur Seye.
To do nearby
Gaillac, only a 15 minute drive, is renowned for its wines, which can be tasted at the Maison du Vin in town or one of the many vineyards in the surrounding countryside. And only half an hour away, the city of Albi has some superb art and architecture and museums to discover, and trips on the River Tarn in traditional boats called ‘gabarres’.
The Tarn has plenty of natural spaces to enjoy, including the Grésigne Forest on the doorstep, crossed with footpaths and trails for walking, horse riding and cycling.
Canoeing and kayaking are readily offered on both the Tarn and Aveyron rivers, which are roughly equidistant; the Tarn offers gentle scenery and a sedate pace whilst the Aveyron gorge offers more dramatic scenery and adventure – the stretch between Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val and Penne is spectacular.
Family fun
Family groups will love the aquatic fun park at Monclar-de-Quercy, about 25 mins away. As well as the main attraction, a lake with inflatable obstacles and slides on it, and a sandy beach, there is also a series of swimming pools, water chutes, a splash area. Paddle-boarding and fishing also available.
Older children and young adults might enjoy outdoor paintball and laser games at Cahuzac-sur-Vère (less than 15 minutes by car) or go-karting or indoor climbing at Albi.
A little further afield at Le Garric (45 minutes), ‘Cap Découverte’ a disused mine has been turned into a huge activity park, with a giant zip wire, cable waterskiing, skatepark, bike trails & rollerblade paths (equipment can be hired), summer sledging, bungee trampoline…
