Salvagnac
Serving as the gateway to the Tarn from Montauban, Salvagnac was constructed in the 13th century in the grounds of a Benedictine priory. Despite being fortified by a chateau, the town was almost completely destroyed in the 16th century during the French Religious Wars. Rebuilt in the 18th century, Salvagnac now looks out across a fine array of cereal fields surrounded by farmed hillsides.
Salvagnac, guardian of the River Tescou plains
Once an ancient stronghold, nowadays Salvagnac seems to stand guard over the plains of the River Tescou, which flows quietly towards Montauban.
The towers of the chateau are the only vestiges of a history that dates back to the Middle Ages, reminding us of an ancient time of war and conflict. Fields of cereal crops have since replaced battlefields, at the same time offering up abundant wheat harvests. A flour mill sprung up too, leading to an ever-changing countryside according to the seasons, be it the gold of the wheat, the green of the forests, or the ochre colours of autumn. The ‘Lo Cantel’ association keeps this tradition going by developing a brand linking farmers, millers and bakers. ‘Lo Cantel’ bread is available in all the best bakeries in the Tarn.
To get the best out of the changing colours of the countryside, take the road that heads down to Rabastens, following a magnificent ridge line. While you’re walking and rambling in the area you might well come across the old Saint-Angel mill by the side of the road or the chapel at Bouisse, founded by the order of Knight’s Hospitallers of Jerusalem, on the pilgrim path of Santiago de Compostela. The views are magnificent and throughout your trip you’ll find countryside information points to help you along your way. And why not take in the small traditional covered market at the town hall that takes place every Wednesday?
Notre-dame Church
This church houses an important religious art treasure, a processional cross dating from the 16th century that’s classified as a historical monument, as well as frescos by Nicolaï Greschny, a well-known early 20th century painter.
The Lac des Sourigous
At the edge of the village you can find the Sourigous lake and its leisure park. You can start a good number of walks, rambles and mountain bike, trails here, find an area for motorhomes, a mini farm with a shop selling local produce, and a boardwalk café over the lake. You can also fish or get to know the flora of the region better thanks to a refurbished arboretum.
Around the Salvagnac area
Whenever the mood takes you, head out and discover all the charming villages that have their own gourmet markets and village fêtes. Tauriac, Montdurausse, Montgaillard, Montvalen and la Sauzière-Saint-Jean will all provide a convivial stop along the way as you wend your way around countryside roads and trails.
The Salvagnac Tourist Office
To discover more about visits and activities, find a hotel or a chambre d’hote, or organise a walk or a ramble, the Salvagnac Tourist Office is open during the summer season to help you get the most out of your holidays.
À découvrir
Local Market in Salvagnac
Salvagnac
Café au Bord du Monde
Salvagnac
The Sourigous leasure area
Salvagnac
