THE TARN
TO DISCOVER DURING YOUR HOLIDAY IN OCCITANIA
Located in the heart of the new Occitanie region, the Tarn charms visitors with its diversity and authentic local character. Staying at our Tarn campsite, Le Soleil des Bastides, places you at the heart of department 81, an exceptional territory. You’ll enjoy a variety of discoveries, from visual and historical wonders to gourmet treats like pink garlic from Lautrec, Gaillac wines, and charcuterie from the Montagne Noire. Spending your holidays in the Tarn means embracing a slower pace of life, the warm welcome of the locals, exploring hilly roads dotted with Albigensian bastides, or cooling off by rivers and lakes – a delight for children!
Discover the Tarn from our campsite.
History of the Tarn region
The Tarn, located in the southwest of France in the Occitanie region, is a department rich in history and heritage. Its name comes from the Tarn river that runs through it.
Human presence dates back to prehistoric times, with remains from the Neolithic era. In Antiquity, the Tarn was part of the Roman province of Gallia Narbonensis. During the Middle Ages, the region was marked by religious wars, particularly the Cathar revolt.
The Tarn is also famous for its bastides, fortified towns built in the 13th and 14th centuries. Over time, the department grew through its textile industry, especially the production of pastel, a plant-based dye.
Geology and landscapes of the Tarn
The Tarn offers a uniquely diverse geological landscape, from the mountains of the Massif Central to fertile plains. The region features rolling hills, dense forests, and winding rivers. The limestone plateaus of the Causse de Quercy and the Montagne Noire mountains add to its natural charm. The Tarn’s landscapes are also defined by the rock formations of the Gorges du Tarn, carved by river erosion, offering breathtaking views.
Main towns in the Tarn
Tourism in the Tarn is centered around the cities of Albi, Castres, and Gaillac.
Albi, the prefecture of the Tarn, is a must-see with its Sainte-Cécile Cathedral and the episcopal city – both UNESCO World Heritage sites – and the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum. Castres is known for its houses over the Agout River and the Goya Museum, home to the largest collection of Spanish art in France outside the Louvre. Gaillac is renowned for its wines and also boasts many historic buildings and lively markets with authentic charm.
The Most Beautiful Natural Sites in the Tarn
The Tarn is full of natural wonders with unique beauty.
The Gorges de l’Aveyron, located in the Tarn with their steep cliffs and crystal-clear waters, are perfect for canoeing and hiking enthusiasts. The Black Mountain, with its dense forests and tranquil lakes, is ideal for outdoor getaways. The Sidobre, a granite massif unique in Europe, features astonishing landscapes with rocks in unusual shapes.
These three natural sites are must-sees when it comes to tourism in the Tarn.
Outdoor Activities in the Tarn
The Tarn is a true paradise for outdoor activity lovers.
Hiking is a major attraction here, with marked trails crossing a wide variety of landscapes. Canoeing and kayaking on the Tarn and Aveyron rivers offer moments of both relaxation and adventure.
Cycling enthusiasts will also enjoy the many bike paths across this part of Occitanie. The Tarn also offers golf courses, riding centres and climbing areas for sports lovers.
Culinary Specialties of the Tarn
The cuisine of the Tarn reflects its region: authentic and generous.
Among the local specialties, you’ll find cassoulet from Castelnaudary, tripous from Naucelle and aligot, a mashed potato dish blended with fresh tomme cheese.
The wines of Gaillac, from one of the oldest vineyards in France, are also worth discovering, with a variety of reds, whites, and rosés. Don’t miss foie gras, Lacaune ham and goat cheeses, which are sure to delight food lovers.
Festivals and Cultural Events in the Tarn
The Tarn department is lively all year round thanks to numerous festivals and cultural events.
The Pause Guitare Festival in Albi is a major music event that brings together international artists and thousands of spectators every summer. The Lavaur Carnival, with its colourful parades and decorated floats, is another highlight of tourism in the Tarn. Also not to be missed: the Lantern Festival in Gaillac, inspired by Chinese traditions, which lights up the winter nights with its magnificent illuminated sculptures.
What to Do During a Weekend in the Tarn?
Want to visit the Tarn for a weekend getaway? Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of this beautiful part of France.
Day 1
Albi is a must-see when it comes to tourism in the Tarn. Start your weekend with a visit to the Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, the largest brick cathedral in the world, with an exquisitely decorated interior. Then head to the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, housed in the former episcopal palace, to admire works by the Albi-born painter. Don’t forget to stroll through Albi’s historic centre, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In the afternoon, enjoy a canoe or kayak trip on the Tarn River, just a few kilometres from Albi, and take in the region’s natural beauty from the water.
Wrap up your day in Gaillac with a vineyard tour and a tasting of local wines.
Day 3
Staying for three days in the Tarn? Head to Cordes-sur-Ciel, one of the most beautiful villages in France, and explore its medieval streets and artisan workshops. Join a pottery or glassblowing workshop for a hands-on experience of local craftsmanship in this part of Occitanie.
In the afternoon, go for a walk or bike ride in the Grésigne Forest. Then, stop by a local farm to sample regional products like goat cheese and traditional pastries.
The Tarn, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, charming towns and culinary delights, is an unmissable destination for nature and discovery lovers. Whether you’re passionate about history, outdoor activities or gourmet food, the Tarn has something to enchant you!
Jour 3
Vous séjournez 3 jours dans le Tarn ? Partez pour Cordes-sur-Ciel, un des plus beaux villages de France et explorez ses ruelles médiévales et ses ateliers d’artisans. Participez à un atelier de poterie ou de verre soufflé pour une immersion dans l’artisanat local de ce coin d’Occitanie.
L’après-midi, prenez la direction de la forêt de la Grésigne pour une balade à pied ou à vélo. Ensuite, faites une pause dans une ferme locale pour déguster des produits du terroir, comme le fromage de chèvre et les pâtisseries régionales.
Le Tarn, avec sa richesse historique, ses paysages diversifiés, ses villes charmantes et ses délices culinaires, est une destination incontournable pour les amateurs de découverte et de nature. Que vous soyez passionné d’histoire, adepte d’activités de plein air ou gourmet, le Tarn a de quoi vous séduire !
