On the way of Saint-James

En route on the "Cami Toulze"

The route starts at Saint-Martin Laguépie, in the very north of the Tarn, where the ruins of a medieval castle overlook the precise point where the Viaur joins the Aveyron. Alone or with your travelling companion, your're off, heading south on a wander across the causse. Long before you reach Saint-Jean Pied de Port, the Spanish border, and finaly Santiago de Compostela, your ultimate goal, one of the most beautiful villages in France is just a short distance along the way.

Here's the medieval town of Cordes sur Ciel, well worth a stop before setting off again, rucksack on back, on the trails and their changing landscapes as you walk for 3 days or more. We pass other walkers doing the opposite route or just a short section of it. Step by step, the richness of the heritage is revealed: castles, churches, not forgetting the wine estates, you walk serenely all the way to Gaillac, where the vineyards are at their most hilly. Once past Gaillac, the hills give way to the plains, and here and there you come across donkeys and horses. You follow the Tarn as it winds its way through the countryside a little further on. Between vineyards and fields of sunflowers in bloom in summer, the ochre of the bricks has replaced the white stone. With a little more effort, Saint-Sulpice is approaching and Toulouse is not so far away. One stage ends, another begins!

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Cordes sur Ciel

Founded nearly 800 years ago by the Count of Toulouse Raimond VII, Cordes sur Ciel still shines with its medieval allure, fortified gates and Gothic facades, as well as the artists and craftsmen who populate its narrow streets.

In the town, you'll find everything you need to start your long journey or to rest if you're on the road.

Gourmet break in Cordes sur Ciel

Cahuzac-sur-Vère

Right in the heart of the Gaillac vineyards, Cahuzac-sur-Vère is the starting point for a number of walks. The surrounding vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see and undulate over the hills. Don't be fooled by its small size! This village, grouped around the church of Saint Thomas, has everything you need to recharge your batteries. Shops, restaurants and accommodation welcome you for a yum yum break and a good night's sleep.

Gourmet break in Cahuzac-sur-Vère

Rabastens

Courage! You're nearing the end of the road! In Rabastens, your walking pilgrimage will take you to the foot of the imposing church of Notre-Dame du Bourg, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela! If you stray slightly from the signposts, you'll enter the old village where the Saint-Jacques hospital once stood, recognisable by the shell carved into the wall. At the end of the street, pay a visit to the Musée du Pays Rabastinois to admire the polychrome statue of Saint-Jacques le Majeur.
Come on, let's set off again for the last few kilometres before reaching Saint-Sulpice.

Gourmet break in Rabastens