There is a corner of the south of France they call "little Tuscany." A landscape whose profile is marked by rolling hills embroidered with long rows of vineyards. From time to time a bell tower appears here, a red tile roof there... it really feels like you're in Tuscany.
It is the Tarn region, in Occitania, in the southwest of the country, a corner of France where traditions are still deeply rooted and where it seems to take a step back in time. Especially walking through the countryside between one town and another, from Cordes-sur-Ciel to Puycelsi, from Gaillac (which gives its name to the wine) to Penne and Castelnau de Montmiral.
The old defensive fortifications are still clearly visible in some places, such as those in Puycelsi, the impregnable village surrounded by the Gresigne forest and therefore nicknamed "the fortress in the forest". Built on a rocky spur, it offers a beautiful view of the region and is included among the most beautiful villages in France (the equivalent of our most beautiful villages in Italy). Walking through the narrow streets of the town you can still feel the medieval atmosphere. The citadel has been completely restored to its former splendor and is one of the must-see stops in the Tarn area.
Also among the most beautiful towns in France, Castelnau-de-Montmiral It is a town that has remained intact over time because it is also impregnable. It withstood the Hundred Years' War and the religious wars, remaining as it was. When you find yourself in the central Place des Arcades, where the city market is held, you expect to see a horse-drawn carriage arriving at any moment. From the top of the town, the view disappears into the hills planted with grapes, where you can venture out and stop at the local wineries for a good glass of wine.
From the town of Gaillac is named after the entire wine region. The city developed around its abbey, Saint Michel, a monastery that was donated to the Benedictine monks by the bishop of Albi in the 10th century. From here the city was born and the activity linked to the production of wine and the famous "pastel" blue, a color that characterizes many buildings in the Occitanie region, starting from Toulouse, its capital. The historic center is beautiful, with its half-timbered houses, many of them classified as historical monuments, the squares and the open-air markets.
The town is completely Gothic in style. Cordes-sur-Ciel, which has preserved all its authenticity and charm. A walk through the medieval city is an unmissable experience, all the alleys are full of numerous workshops and craft shops. In 2014 it was chosen the most beautiful town in France.
But the most impressive place in this region is undoubtedly there. penne fortress, suspended in an almost unnatural position above the Aveyron gorges. A defensive fortress from the 13th century that today is almost in ruins. The picturesque alley of the old town, lined with splendid houses, leads to the fortress and you can also follow a themed trail, perfect for children. From the top of the castle you can admire one of the most beautiful views of the Tarn region, from the hills to the Gaillac vineyards, from the Grésigne forest to the Aveyron gorges.
