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Motorhoming in the Tarn
Motorhoming in the Tarn
Tarn is in the east of the region of the Midi-Pyrénées. The river of the same name crosses the department on a large plane but otherwise the department has many valleys and is mountainous in the south.
Albi is on of the most beautiful towns in the midi-Pyrénées and is built mostly using the pinky red bricks common to the region. Founded on the banks of the river Tarn, the town has a history marked by religious conflict and its cathedral, built between the 12th and the 14th century served also as a fortress. Today it can simply be admired as a wonderful work of Gothic art. The old quarter of the town is worth a visit and several routes are proposed by the tourist office which will allow you to see all the sights while wandering around. Albi is also the birthplace of Toulouse Lautrec and hundreds of his works of art are exposed in the museum dedicated to this artist.
If you’re hiring a motorhome in England or hiring a motorhome in France and you want to visit the local vineyards of Tarn, you could start off by visiting Lisle Sur Tarn which is a medieval town at the heart of the department’s vineyards. In the tradition of the region and medieval stronghold towns, it is built around a central square with arcades and four gateways marking out the different quarters of the town. The forty meter high, octagonal church tower, built in brick is an example of pure Toulousaine tradition. Motorhome travel in France often involves investigating the wine culture of the area and the Gaillac vineyards of Tarn are a wonderful example of the wine making history of France. The first traces of wine making in the area date back to 6th century BC, but as often is the case it was the 5th century monks who developed the vineyards. The Gaillac vineyards produce Syrah and Muscadelle wines, amongst others.
Using the free Aires de Service in the Tarn is a good way to see the most of the area. Visit the hill top village of Cordes sur Ciel. Perched on top of its rocky summit, it is appreciated by artists and tourists alike. This medieval stronghold has preserved all of its charms and you can wonder through the little streets and enjoy the boutiques and all that the local craftsmen have to offer.
One of the specialities of the Tarn is the ‘salaisons de Lacaune’, basically pork products preserved with salt. Lacaune became known in the 19th century for its traditional slaughtering of the family pig at the beginning of the winter. Every part of the pig is used and preserved to produce jambon sec and other delicious charcutery.
Take the opportunity to sample other local delicacies in the neighbouring departments by going motorhoming in Tarn et Garonne, motorhoming in Haute Garonne or motorhoming in Aveyron.
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