Cycling holidays in the Tarn

With vineyards and sunflower fields as far as the eye can see, the Tarn is an ideal destination for a cycling holiday in harmony with nature. What better way to see both landscapes and heritage of the department than while doing a bit of exercise?

Cycling in the Tarn is a good start if you’re a novice to the petite reine: lots of routes are totally flat. Nothing could be easier than going in one of the Tourist Offices of the department and asking for a map of the local area, which will contain cycle itineraries approved by the Fédération Française de Cyclotourisme.

Following countryside routes between the Episcopal city of Albi and lovely towns such as Gaillac or Saint-Sulpice is a perfect first-time route, requiring some effort without being too strenuous! All around you are only sunflower fields, cows in the meadows and, if you listen carefully, the song of crickets. If you’re lucky you could even see dragonflies or butterflies, on very sunny days.

It’s not just these little companions that make a journey on two wheels so pleasant in this area – the majority of the route is lined by trees, providing plenty of places to take a break in the shade… perhaps while eating some wild berries that you found on the side of the road!

After stopping in the local small towns, such as Castelnau-de-Montmiral with its beautiful arcades, or cycling on Rabastens’ ramparts, you’ll probably be starving. Take your own picnic in your bicycle bags to eat next to one of the Tarn’s numerous lakes, such as the tranquil Lac des Auzerals near Grazac. The banks of the Tarn River in Albi also offer an idyllic spot to eat and enjoy the fantastic view over the Cathedral Sainte-Cécile.

If you’re feeling active you might be tempted by the challenge of cylcing to Cordes-sur-Ciel in the north of the Tarn. Both hilly routes and leisurely paths can be taken from the foot of this majestic city that seems to soar into the sky. Reserve a bit of energy for the final climb at the top of the town before going back!

To the west of Castres, the Route du Pastel can be enjoyed on two wheels to discover the history of the blue pigment created from a plant called Isatis Tinctoria. Its significant colour is part of the Tarn’s identity and makes the perfect pretext for jumping on your bike and following its route.

Finally, you can cycle from the Sidobre, a mysterious mountainous area made of granite, to the Montagne Noire (Dark Mountain). Taking this more athletic route is the perfect opportunity to discover the Tarn’s hinterland and industrial culture.