Tarn Explorer

Tarn & Aveyron: Rivers, gorges & historic hilltop towns

• April - October

• Please contact us for a quote

• Beautifully restored historic Le Claouzet farmhouse with 4 bedrooms sleeping upto 8 and swimming pool. Ideal for groups or families

• grade explained

• A week long independent Self catering Walking Holiday in the Tarn and Aveyron region of South West France. A choice of walks through historic hilltops towns, vineyards and along dramatic gorges. A number of other activities are also possible including cycling, canoeing and sailing
• Possibility of rental periods shorter than a week outside of the main holiday season (not June, July, August or early September) Please contact us for more information

• Wonderful historic farmhouse in quiet rural location in South West France with its favourable climate
• Selection of spectacular and varied walks through beautifully varied countryside in the Tarn and Aveyron, including hidden gorges, sweeping plateaux and vine covered valleys
• Stunning medieval hilltop towns such as Cordes sur Ciel, plus a host of historic and cultural delights
• A great destination for families with plenty of sports and activities in close proximity
• The Tarn and Aveyron is a haven for a variety of wildlife
• Visit local wine producers to try the great local wine
• Welcoming hosts who will be delighted to provide expert advice about the walks and the sights.

1. Self catering farmhouse for a week with swimming pool, loan of walking maps and walking descriptions, plenty of advice from welcoming hosts
2. More general information about our self-catering holidays

1. Travel to Le Claouzet, insurance, food (except possible welcome meal), any extra costs - entrance fees

The Walking and activities

The Tarn and Aveyron region of South West France has a large number of good trails allowing both keen walkers and those looking for some gentle strolls to enjoy the varied landscapes. The possible walks on this self catering walking holiday vary in length. Anyone of average fitness should be able to enjoy this picturesque region to the full. Some walks include moderate ascents up and down gorges and hills, whilst others can be varied in length. In addition, there are a number of easier walks to choose from. Paths are generally good, although they can be rough in places.

Cycling

There are a number of good cycle routes in the area. For the cycling enthusiasts, the Tour de France has passed this area in recent years. The Farmhouse has an area where bikes can be stored and tinkered on. 

Other Activities

There is canoeing on the Aveyron and Tarn rivers, sailing on a nearby lake, horse riding just 5kms away and an adventure park at Cap decouverte (about 10kms away) with water skiing, dry slope skiing, go karts, swimming lake, luge etc - making it a great holiday destination for families. For the adventurous there is also climbing and caving in the Aveyron gorges.

Possible Walks

On arrival at Le Claouzet you will be provided with walking maps and notes describing a selection of possible independent walking tours in the region. Below is a selection of some of the best walks:

St Antonin Noble Val

Visit St Antonin Noble Val nestled at the opening of the Aveyron Gorge, a beautiful medieval town which was the backdrop to the film ‘Charlotte Gray.` Take the time to visit the Sunday market before walking up the escarpment and following a path across the Causse or limestone plateau. 

The old drovers path

This Walk goes from your rental accommodation at Le Claouzet to Cordes sur Ciel, widely considered the finest fortified town in France. The walk follows an old Drovers path above the Cerou Valley, and then climbs into the old town to explore the narrow winding streets and the beautiful gothic and renaissance buildings, which are incredibly well preserved. 

The forest of Gresigne

This walk starts from Puycelsi, a hilltop town which has maintained a strategic highpoint from prehistoric times, there are both bronze age and Roman remains in the area. This day's walking drops into the forest of Gresigne which is the largest forest in the Tarn and the greatest oak forest in the South of France. The walk passes through  a conservation  orchard, a Roman road and the hunting forests of King François I.

Albi

Visit the beautiful city of Albi on the banks of the river Tarn. The city is home to Saint Cecile Cathedral, the largest brick built building in the world. There is also the chance to visit the Toulouse Lautrec museum which houses over 1000 of his works or just stroll by the river and relax in one of the numerous cafés and bars.

Valley de la Jouyre

Head north into the Aveyron for this longer walk through the Vallée de la Jouyre. The walk starts from Najac another historic hilltop town over looking the river and passes classic architecture of the Aveyron region including old mills and pigeonniers. 

The monks route

This walk follows the ancient Route of the Monks, and continues across the chalky plateau, home to much of the Gaillac wine region, where you can visit one of the local domaines to sample the local produce!