Natural open spaces, merging the first elevations of the Massif Central with the plains of the southwest, Tarn has a unique heritage in France.
The département can therefore pride itself on offering its visitors a hugely diverse countryside but also a rich heritage thanks to its long, tumultuous history.
Albi its capital, draws the most attention thanks to its unique architecture. The brickwork that displays all the shades of red from morning until evening is the town's undisputed star. Albi has been classed a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to such monuments at the famous Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, constructed entirely of red brick. Aside from the architectural masterpieces, the town is also resolutely engrained in the way of life of southwest France and encourages a leisurely walk through its narrow cobbled streets.
Around Albi, various villages are among the most beautiful and most spectacular in France, such as the aptly named Cordes-sur-Ciel, a medieval city perched on a natural promontory, where steep streets take you through craft shops and fine cuisine to discover a fabulous viewpoint across the surrounding valley.
To the far south, you will find Sorèze between the famous Canal du Midi and the fantastic Montagne Noire or Black Mountain. This Benedictine Abbey, founded in 754, is famous for having been the site of a prestigious school for 300years. Since its closure, the abbey has organised various cultural and tourist activities, such as its Musée de la Tapisserie.
Rich with this important cultural heritage, Tarn also has much to offer sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. The Parc Naturel Régional du Haut-Languedoc that takes up the entire southeast of the département is the ideal location to discover region's highlights, on foot, by bike or even on horseback. The rest of the département also has a myriad of discovery routes for all tastes and fitness levels.
Finally, drenched in culture and nature, you will not miss out on the gastronomic highlights of the southwest, in the vineyards of Gaillac, for example. To benefit most from the entire département and with the freedom to satisfy all your senses, hire a car to explore Tarn to your heart’s desire.