Top 5 must-see sites
Calling budding explorers and collectors of happy memories, we will take you on a voyage of discovery of the Gaillac region and its treasure trove of surprises. From the majestic church of Notre-Dame du Bourg to the magnificent square in Castelnau-de-Montmiral, via the mysterious fortified village of Puycelsi, explore the Tarn's iconic sites, which give the region all its charm.
The church of Notre-Dame du Bourg in Rabastens
Welcome to the charming village of Rabastens where, for more than 700 years, the majestic church of Notre-Dame du Bourg has stood. Open your eyes wide, you can't miss it! Right in the centre of the village, just a stone's throw from the Tarn, this former chapel, now a parish church, stands on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route. The exterior is impressive, but you won't believe the interior with its gilded frescoes. And if you're not convinced, you should know that the church of Notre-Dame du Bourg has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.
The Abbey of Saint-Michel in Gaillac
This beautiful, ochre-coloured building overlooking the Tarn, keeps a solemn watch over Gaillac. A witness to the town's history, the Abbey of Saint-Michel contributed to the development of the Gaillac vines, which were established in particular by the monks from the 10th century onwards.
Do you prefer a museum, or a concert with an aperitif? There's something for everyone! Wander through the museum corridors in the cellars where the barrels used to age, or enjoy a glass of wine to the sound of guitars in the abbey gardens in the summer, you'll find your own way to discover this colourful (and tasty) heritage.
The medieval square in Castelnau de Montmiral
Return to a time when people enjoyed the good life and festivities on the arcaded square in Castelnau de Montmiral, a little gem of medieval architecture.
You can stroll through the market on Tuesday mornings and enjoy a drink on a terrace or sit on a bench to admire the details of the façades: stones, wood and bricks that intermingle like a patchwork of past eras.
In the summer, the square comes to life during the Musicales at sunset. You'll experience south-western France's version of la dolce vita!
The hilltop village of Puycelsi
Between valleys and forests, the road that leads to the fortified village of Puycelsi, classified as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, is in itself a journey that will guide you towards the place known as "the fortress of the woods". The picture postcard landscapes at sunset will make your social media likes blow up. The most enthusiastic visitors can climb to the village on foot; once you're at the top the view is stunning! Wander as you please in the charming little streets or on the wall walk. Take a break in front of the fortress ruins and imagine yourself as a knight resisting the siege of the English in 1386.
It is said that, in order to discourage the English, the Puycelsi inhabitants would make their only pig scream each day, using a spear, to make them believe that there was an abundance of food. The subterfuge worked!
The square in Lisle sur Tarn
Your phone camera will immortalise the interplay of light and shadow between the arcades, while aerial photos capture the perfect geometry of the arcaded square in Lisle-sur-Tarn: the largest in the south-west. We like to stroll around on Sundays at market time, for a little gourmet break, or during festivities. You won't be able to stop looking at the red brick façades, which are enhanced by the designs of the corbels. Another curiosity is the Fontaine du Griffoul, with Historic Monument status, which stands proudly in the centre of the square: it was donated by Alphonse de Poitiers and Jeanne de Toulouse when the town was established.
Go further
Sunset over Puycelsi
The Abbey Saint-Michel
Lisle sur Tarn’s square
Cordes sur Ciel
Notre Dame du Bourg
