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CORDES SUR CIEL & MEDIEVAL VILLAGES

CORDES SUR CIELCASTELNAU-DE-MONTMIRALPUYCELSIBRUNIQUELPENNE

5 villages foran extraordinary journey

EXPLORATION& CONTEMPLATION

HERITAGE,THE GREAT OUTDOORS & THE ART OF LIVING

Cordes sur Ciel & Medieval Villages, an incredible road trip into history on a breathtaking panoramic backdrop.

Centuries of battle and the conquest of strategic look-out posts have shaped this enchanting landscape dotted with castles, fortified villages and bastides, much to the delight of visitors who now come to gaze.

To experience this amazing journey, take to the footpaths, drive up and down the steep little roads, or pedal along the signposted cycle paths.Or why not travel on horseback, in a canoe, or with a donkey! All will be revealed as you marvel at the legacy of ten centuries of history. Artists and craftspeople, ancient traditions, breathtaking scenery, spellbinding shows and the authentic hospitality of winegrowers, accommodation providers and local producers. A way of life that’s second nature here, perpetuated through the generations.

ABOVE THE CLOUDSCORDES SUR CIEL

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THE VIEWPOINT ON THE MOUNTCASTELNAU-DE-MONTMIRAL

THE FORTRESS IN THE WOODSPUYCELSI

THE VILLAGE WITH TWO CASTLESBRUNIQUEL

THE FORTIFIED OUTCROPPENNE

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DECOUVERTES& CONTEMPLATIONS

PATRIMOINE,PLEINE NATURE & ART DE VIVRE

IMMERSE YOURSELFIN AN EXCEPTIONAL HERITAGE

IMPENETRABLE CITADELS,HIGH BASTIDES AND FORTIFIED VILLAGES.

Cordes sur Ciel is the first of these fortified villages. It was built during the Albi crusade, when the Cathar heretics, in their quest for utopian perfection, defied the Establishment at the beginning of the 12th century. This sublime village, now known the world over, will be your base.

Perched high on their rock formations, like lighthouses on a magnificent seascape, each of the fortified villages represents a stage of your journey. You’ll take your bearings from them on your hedonistic adventure of discovery and contemplation.

You’ll succumb to the charm of Castelnau-de-Montmiral, the “viewpoint on the mount”, with its alleyways and medieval square beyond compare, not forgetting the unrivalled view over Grésigne forest and the Vère valley. The fortified village of Puycelsi, nicknamed “the fortress in the forest”, stands high on a rocky outcrop from where the views are unique and the sunset the most beautiful in the region.The castles of Bruniquel are truly a history book waiting to be read. On top of a cliff at a height of 90 metres, they invite you to contemplate the exceptional Aveyron gorges, as does the village

of Penne with its fortress clinging like an eagle’s nest to the top of the most unlikely cliff.

BRUNIQUELTHE TWO CASTLES

VIEW OF THE VILLAGECASTELNAU-DE-MONTMIRAL

Film-makers know where to come!

Robert Enrico’s memorable film from 1975, “The Old

Gun”, starring Philippe Noiret and Romy Schneider, was

shot in Bruniquel. In 2018,

Antoine Blossier showcased the charms of the region

with the filming of “Remi, Nobody’s Boy” in which Daniel

Auteuil stars. The film features some ravishing views of

Cordes sur Ciel, the maze of little streets in Penne, the

Place aux Arcades in Castelnau-de-Montmiral, and the

beautiful landscapes of the surrounding

fields and valleys.

Authentic film sets

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PENNETHE EAGLE’S NEST

CORDES SUR CIELCLOSER TO THE STARS

Cordes sur Ciel & Medieval Villages offers the

unconditional charm of the preserved heritage

of ancient villages. This charm now blends with

generous hospitality and an authentic way of

life.

The friendly inhabitants, the local art of living,

the abundance of charming hotels and gites,

the boutiques and art & craft shops, make this

destination a winner. Puycelsi, Bruniquel and

Castelnau-de-Montmiral have each in turn been

rated among the Most Beautiful Villages in

France, and Cordes sur Ciel was elected

“France’s Favourite Village” in 2014.

The most beautiful villages in France

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CORDES SUR CIELMEDIEVAL MEANDERS

ARTS & CRAFTSHISTORY OF THE ARTS

BRUNIQUELHUMAN HISTORY

WALL WALK - PUYCELSIHISTORY AND LANDSCAPE

Discover this cradle of arts and crafts, and the

workshops and boutiques where the magicians of

matter perform their magic.

In Bruniquel and the old town of Cordes, glassblowers,

ceramicists, jewellers and artisans working with leather,

wood or enamel, perpetuate an ancestral savoir-faire

with a creativity that knows no bounds. At the end of

the year, all of these arts and crafts are showcased

during the Rencontres des Métiers d’Art festival at the

Castles of Bruniquel.

Art & craft towns

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DELVEINTO A THOUSAND YEARS OF HISTORY

Each village offers its share of surprises, discoveries and delights. Between alleys and gardens, you’ll admire private mansions, medieval gateways and some fantastic village squares.

Some of the streets still bear the stigma of their former role; one can only smile walking down Bruniquel’s “rue Trotte-garces”!And one can only marvel at the Reliquary Cross - a gem of craftwork kept at Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church in Castelnau-de-Montmiral - or at the restored medieval altarpiece and the azure blue interior of Sainte-Corneille church in Puycelsi.

These squares are havens of peace. Take refuge in the shade of the magnificent arches of Place des Arcades in Castelnau-de-Montmiral, and admire the medieval market hall, the ancient well and the square outside Sainte Catherine de Penne church in Cordes sur Ciel. And when it’s time for a break, you’ll appreciate the coolness of the parks. The enchanting decor of Bruniquel Castle gardens, or the Jardin des Paradis park in Cordes sur Ciel are ideal places to relax.

In Cordes sur Ciel, a museum devoted to “Les Arts du Sucre et du Chocolat” (Sugar & Chocolate Art” will appeal to a sweet tooth, while modern art lovers will head for the Musée des Arts Modernes et Contemporains.

MEDIEVAL MEANDERS AND A TREASURE HUNT

PENNERAMBLING AND EXPLORING

The discovery of the Bruniquel cave revealed man-

made structures dating back

176,500 years or so, placing them among the very first.

These findings revolutionised the world of science,

taking Man’s first known occupation of caves much

further back in history. Previously the official period

dated from 38,000 years ago (Chauvet Cave).

Learn the full story at an exhibition organised at

Bruniquel Castle, which retraces the adventure of the

Caussade pot-holers who made this discovery, as well

as the first study carried out in

1992-93 and the new one that began in 2014.

At the beginnings of humanity

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AVEYRON GORGESNATURE SPORTS

VIEW FROM TOULZE FOOTPATHGAILLAC VINEYARD

You absolutely must visit each of the villages, but getting from one village to the next is an experience in itself. The area around Gaillac is nicknamed “little Tuscany”, and for good reason!The succession of hills, vineyards and valleys will have romantics dreaming of Italy. Not forgetting the view from the “Pied-Haut” over Cordes sur Ciel, set ablaze twice a day by the rays of the rising and setting sun.

The Aveyron Gorges, Grésigne forest, the Vère valley and the vineyards of Gaillac all add to the splendour of your journey.

The rolling countryside is an invitation to take your time exploring these roads. You can even book a road trip in a Citroën 2CV, stopping off along the way to meet winegrowers and local producers. But for the ultimate experience in leisurely travel, you can explore around Bruniquel and in Grésigne forest on donkey back!The countryside is also criss-crossed with signposted mountain-bike trails. And hikers are really spoilt for choice with, among others paths, the GR46 great hiking route which follows the old Santiago de Compostela path.

ESCAPETO THE GREAT OUTDOORS

CHOOSE YOUR CARRIAGE

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GRÉSIGNE FORESTWALKING AND HIKING

CORDES SUR CIELVEW OF THE SARMAZES

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CORDES SUR CIEL“CROQUANT” ALMOND BISCUITS

GAILLAC VINEYARDDOVECOTE

Here, the emphasis is on responsible farming and authenticity. Everything is adapted to the local terroir and a sense of respect for produce and tradition is passed down from one generation to the next. You’ll find the goat and sheep cheeses delicious. The vegetable farmers have a good reputation, and the culture of South West France is worthily represented by a whole range of fattened duck products. The growers’ markets provide a unique opportunity to familiarise yourself with the local produce while sharing their sincerity and sense of togetherness. To satisfy the gourmet in you, you can even buy truffles!

The croquant de Cordes is an almond biscuit that has achieved international fame. As legend has it, the biscuits were invented in the 17th century by an innkeeper who had a surplus of almonds. He is said to have served them with aglass of Gaillac wine. It’s only a legend, but that needn’t stop you indulging in this delicacy and accompanying it with a glass of wine. With a little jam, or plain as a dessert, they make a delicious treat full of finesse.

The wines known as “Vins du Coq” result from the most ancient of quality approaches! As far back as the 14th century, the winegrowers of Gaillac established a charter for their wines, which were very popular across Europe long before the Bordeaux vintages were.

Worthy of a modern brand, the charter prohibited blending and imposed the use of pigeon manure, which explains why there are so many dovecotes in the region.

SAVOURINGFRUITS OF THE VINE AND LOCAL PRODUCTS

INDULGE IN A “CROQUANT” ALMOND BISCUIT

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Land of vines and vineyards

The Gaillac vineyard is one of the oldest in France and still produces ancient

grape varieties, such as Braucol, said to have been widely distributed by pilgrims

on the path to Santiago de Compostela, Prunelard, an ancestor of the Malbec

variety, and “Loin de l’Oeil”. The Gaillac vineyard boasts the

“Vignobles & Découvertes” label which is awarded to wine regions offering

quality services to tourists on the theme of wine: accommodation, wine tours,

tasting sessions, cellar visits, etc.

The Quercy vineyard, which also carries the “Vignobles & Découvertes” label,

produces AOC wines of the same name, notably a generously fleshy red with a

wonderful complexity of aromas. The people who create them are attentive to

their soils, day after day, having tamed the valleys and arid slopes of the Quercy

Blanc region dotted with vineyards, orchards and market gardens.

FRESH, HEALTHY PRODUCTSGROWERS’ MARKETS

FOIES GRAS, DUCK BREAST FILLET AND TERRINEFATTENED DUCK

GAILLAC AND COTEAUX DU QUERCYTHE WINES

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Just like in medieval times when the victories of battle were celebrated with enormous banquets, the art of celebrating and a sense of hospitality and togetherness are all part of the local culture. The medieval festivities immerse adults and children in a world of castles and knights. Various festivals offer wonderful cultural experiences and great entertainment. And you’ll feel as if you belong here after participating in one of our local events!

Don’t miss the Bruniquel Castles festival, every weekend in July and August. For over 20 years, the Compagnie de la Tour de Brunehaut brings to life the repertoire of Offenbach with its comical opera performances. Then it’s time for the famous table d’hôte with the artists in the castle courtyard.

Les Musicales de Montmiral is a festival proposing rock & pop music in July and classical in August! To make the setting even more magical, the stage is none other than the Place des Arcades, with its half-timbered houses from the 13th and 17th centuries.

Not forgetting the aperos concerts. Throughout the summer, the Gaillac winegrowers welcome you to their vineyard to enjoy an intimate concert at nightfall with a glass of wine, a plate of tapas, and the pleasant atmosphere of a summer evening.

SHARINGTHE PARTY SPIRIT

CORDES SUR CIELLE GRAND FAUCONNIER

CASTELNAU-DE-MONTMIRALLES MUSICALES12

Festivities in costume in a medieval setting

The region’s medieval heritage is an integral

part of local culture. It is the basis of many

of the local celebrations, including of course

the famous Grand Fauconnier (great falconer)

festival which occupies the entire medieval

centre of Cordes sur Ciel during the month

of July. In Penne, medieval festivals are held

in the fortress all summer long, offering the

chance to witness a medieval-style attack

on the perched village. The Médiévales de

Puycelsi festival will throw you straight back

into the middle of the Hundred Years War, just

for a few hours.

GAILLAC VINEYARDTHE APEROS CONCERTS

OFFENBACH COMICAL OPERATHE BRUNIQUEL CASTLES FESTIVAL

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TRAVELOGUE

Cordes sur Ciel

Morning - Go up to Cordes sur Ciel and wander through the little streets to explore a unique

heritage and discover artists and craftspeople! Then visit the Charles Portal Museum to find

out more about the history ofCordes sur Ciel. Have lunch at one of the

restaurants in the town.

Afternoon - Visit Yves Thuriès’ “Arts du Sucre et du Chocolat” and Modern & Contemporary Art Museums and the Jardin des Paradis, then

walk up to the Pied-Haut forthe ultimate view over Cordes.

For families, download the“Legends of Tarn” app on your smartphone

for a fun way to learn!

Castelnau-de-Montmiral

Morning - Visit Place des Arcades in Castelnau-de-Montmiral, one of the most beautiful villages

in France, and enjoy getting lost in its little streets full of flowers.

Late morning - Meet a Gaillac(2) winegrower and visit the estate, from the vineyard to the

tasting cellar.

Take the children to Vère-Grésigne leisure park to cool off in the water or rent a pedalo or canoe.

Puycelsi

Morning - Visit the honey farm for a gourmet treat or the Oppidum traditional soap factory

for natural care!A programme of authentic encounters.

Midday - Have lunch in Puycelsi at one of the little restaurants around Place du Grand Roc

and enjoy the breathtaking view over the Vère valley and the forest of Grésigne.

Afternoon - Walk around Puycelsi village and continue with a hike along the Sentier du Patrimoine (heritage path) in the heart

of Grésigne forest,in the cool shade of the oak trees.

From the path, there’s an amazing view over the village of Puycelsi. Now you

understand why they call it“The Fortress in the woods”!

Evening - Observe the region’s most beautiful sunset from the top of Puycelsi. It’s magical!

Bruniquel

Morning - Explore the ancient little streets of one of France’s most beautiful villages and walk up to the Castles to see the setting of the film “The Old Gun”. A visit to the exhibition on the historic discovery of the Cave will unveil the

mystery of Neanderthal Man.

Enjoy a lunch based on the excellent products of the South West, at one of the village

restaurants.

Afternoon - Randoland: put on your detective shoes and solve the enigmas on a family walk

around the streets of Bruniquel(1).Have fun at the 3 Lacs water park at Monclar-de-Quercy, in the heart of Quercy Vert, where

you’ll find a lake, a slide, a multi-lane racer slide, three swimming pools

and other water features!

Penne

Morning - Discover the village and it’s eagle-nest fortress overhanging the Aveyron gorges.

Have lunch at one of the restaurants in the village.

Afternoon - Take a canoe down the Aveyron gorges. It’s a thrilling ride! And don’t forget to taste the local “Pic” cheese. Take the family to

see angora goats at a nearby farm.

(1) Guides are available for free at the Bruniquel Tourist Office or online at www.gorges-aveyron-tourisme.com(2) The “Vigneron PASS“ for a special meeting with the winegrower (pass available at our Tourist Information Offices) For a list of outlets phone +33(0)805 400 828 (no surcharge) or visit www.tourisme-vignoble-bastides.com

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TOURIST OFFICE / Bastides & Vignoble du GaillacComplete list of our tourist offices onwww.tourisme-vignoble-bastides.comTél. +33(0) 805 400 828 (free from landlines and mobile phones)

TOURIST OFFICE / Pays Cordais au Pays de VaourMaison Gaugiran - 38-42 Grand Rue Raimond VII81170 Cordes sur Cielwww.cordessurciel.frTél. +33(0)5 63 56 00 52

TOURIST OFFICE / Bruniquel2 rue de la fraternité 82800 Bruniquelwww.gorges-aveyron-tourisme.comTél. +33(0)5 63 67 29 84

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