Located at the southern
end of the Cahors wine region and so the local wine is of a wonderful
quality, of course very reasonable and is available directly
from the local producers. To the south is Gaillac and to the
west, the Bergerac and Bordeaux regions - all within easy reach
for a day trip.
The administrive centre of the Tarn et Garonne
is the city of Montauban dating back to the 12th century - standing
high over the Tarn, built of the famous red Toulouse stone. The
pretty double cloistered Place Nationale with it's cafes and restaurants
is perfect for a glass of wine over lunch after taking in the cobbled
shopping lanes around the square.
Toulouse has a very impressive centre, focused
around the Place Capitole and has all the amenities expected of
the fourth largest city in France. Slightly north of Toulouse, is
Albi - a charming small city housing the Toulouse-Lautrec museum
and garden - a wonderful experience. To the south is Carcassonne's
ancient city within fortified walls - an architectural marvel.
Kayaking from St Antonin Noble Val through the
Aveyron Gorge is the perfect way to while away a summer afternoon;
stop off at the beaches for a picnic and a swim. The town's Sunday
market is a delight.
Why not take in a market, Fete or "vide grenier"
(empty loft sale) which are held in local towns and villages. Nearby
Limogne is famed for it's truffle market, likewise Beaumont de
Lomagne for it's garlic. Caussade has a wonderful market each Monday
in the town's square and quaint lanes around the church, where you
can find the freshest local fruit, vegetables, meat and cheese.
The Lot valley to the north, and the Dordogne
just a little beyond both have spectacular scenery, full of chateaux
and pretty little villages or relive Rick Stein's 2005 mouth watering
exploration of our department around the Canal du Midi.
These are just a few of our favourite choices
and we are always on hand to offer advise and seek information to
ensure that you get the best from the area. The gite contains a welcome
pack containing local information and we are always happy to research
any activity with prior notice. Nearby Montpezat also has an excellent
Tourist information Centre on the main street. |
