Located in the Occitanie region of the southwest of France, the Tarn prefecture was named after the river Tarn. Tarn has a vast selection of vineyards and tranquil medieval sites within the steep forested valleys. Amidst the quiet and peaceful medieval towns and villages, you’d learn to appreciate the rich history and immerse yourself within the southwestern culture.

Central Tarn: Castelnau-de-Lévis

I was lucky to stay in the quaint town of Castelnau-de-Lévis in central Tarn for five days while exploring Tarn. This charming little town is the perfect location to getaway from a hectic lifestyle. From the friendly elderly, walking around town, to the casual strolls in the woods along the river, it’s serene to relax your mind and appreciate mother nature.

Château de Castelnau-de-Lévis

Le Château de Castelnau-de-Lévis is possibly the most cultural-rich site you can find in Castelnau-de-Lévis. Initially called Castelnau de Bonnafonds, it was built in the thirteenth century. Now, only the remnants of the castle and surrounding buildings are what’s left of the site. La tour de guet, a 40m tall and narrow watchtower, is the only strong standing monument preserved till date. Kids in the village used to climb up to the watchtower to have a good view of the town and the Tarn valleys.

Central Tarn: Albi

As a UNESCO World Heritage, Albi is a city with mediaval roots and home to the majestic gothic Sainte-Cécile cathedral. The famous Languedoc-style red-bricked half-timbered houses and the winding cobbled streets lined with local boutiques make for an impressive view.

Pont Vieux

We first started exploring Albi on foot by crossing its oldest bridge, le Pont Vieux, which dates back to 1035. Despite being almost a thousand years old, the brick-and-stone bridge is still very much in use today. From across the bridge, you’ll soon succumb to the picturesque view of Albi, crowned by the cathedral.

Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile d’Albi

The cathedral took more than 200 years to build, and was originally intended as a fortress. It is commonly referred to as the largest brick building in the world. Though the exterior seemed stern, the inside of the cathedral was a sight to behold.

The most mesmerising feature to me was the cathedral’s internal walls. Every inch of the walls was painted in colourful Italian Renaissance frescoes, and all the sculptures were sculpted with an impressive attention to details. They were truly incredible and breathtaking.

In the centre where the nave and organ are, it is hard to miss the outstanding mural in the background. Titled ‘The Last Judgement’, the mural covers both sides of the rounded west wall of the nave. It depicts vivid scenes of the Blessed and Damned, and Heaven and Hell. It is easy to imagine how they used to instil the fear of sin and the trust in god.

There is much to see and understand that I highly recommend you get an audioguide during your visit (~€5/€7). Then, walk through the entire indoor to understand the stories behind each section, painting, and sculpture within the cathedral.

Le Palais de la Berbie

Le Palais de la Berbie, which used to be the Archbishop’s palace, is located right next to the cathedral. With an amazing garden, it is one of the oldest yet best-preserved castles in France. Standing from the breathtaking garden, les Jardins de la Berbie, you’ll be overlooking a picturesque scene of Albi and the river Tarn.

Musée Toulouse-Lautrec

The palace also houses the famous Musée Toulouse-Lautrec, an art museum dedicated mainly to the work of the painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. The artist was born in Albi with the defects of broken legs in his teens. He was short at 4-ft tall, yet with huge artistic talents. The museum is probably one of the biggest attraction to the city, especially for art lovers. Furthermore, the museum holds the single largest collection of his post-impressionist works with more than 1,000 pieces, including his iconic Moulin Rouge posters.

North Tarn: Cordes Sur Ciel

My absolute favourite part of Tarn was the hilltop village of Cordes-sur-Ciel, which literally translates to ‘Ropes over Sky’. This name came about from its height above clouds and over the low-lying valleys. Although, my personal mystical interpretation made this small medieval village even more attractive than it already is (I’ll let you find your own).

It was absolutely memorable to appreciate the medieval atmosphere and architectures as you stroll along the streets high above the clouds Cérou river.

Grand Fauconnier

Historically, Cordes-sur-Ciel was the very first bastide (fortified new village) ever built in Southwest France. Every July, the village holds a two-day festival called Grand Fauconnier. During the festival, villagers dress in medieval costumes to re-enact the Middle Age. Jugglers, street performers, knights, dancers, and medieval music are everywhere throughout the village. People from all over France come to experience the Middle Age atmosphere, and participate in plays, banquets and costumed street parade!

This festival brings everyone back in time to learn the history in practice. Coupled with joyful and amusing activities, it creates an unforgettable experience. Be sure not to miss it if you’re around in July!

North Tarn: Labastide-de-Lévis

If you’re staying within Tarn, then la Cave de Labastide makes a good 2-hour excursion to witness the wine-making processes. It was rather enjoyable to visit the factory, and understand how meticulous these processes are. Remember to have yourself a little wine-tasting and buy a bottle or two!

Bleu de Pastel

A particular feature I saw across Tarn, was the pretty blue colour painted on shutters and doors. Turns out, the economy in the Southwest once flourished from the businesses in Pastel’s blue dyes. Pastel (Isatis tinctoria) is a plant with unique yellow flowers that produces the intense blue dyes. During that time, Pastel was the only source of blue dyes in Europe until the end of sixteenth century.

Therefore, stop and admire the pretty blue once in a while. Even if you do not like the blue nor the flowers, bear in mind that Pastel repels insects. That’s enough reason to appreciate its existence!

My Thoughts

From Toulouse, Tarn is approximately an hour’s drive away and therefore a worthwhile day trip. These are highlights of the places that I’ve been to. They are not hidden, yet stay relatively unexplored by tourists. They were unique and spectacular, making them precious gems of Tarn.

I hope you’ve enjoyed Tarn as I did, and remember to check out my other trips in France here!