CORDES SUR CIEL & MEDIEVAL VILLAGES

5 villages for an extraordinary journey

CORDES SUR CIEL CASTELNAU-DE-MONTMIRAL

PENNE 1 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.

CORDES SUR CIEL ABOVE THE CLOUDS

2 CASTELNAU-DE-MONTMIRAL THE VIEWPOINT ON THE MOUNT

PUYCELSI THE FORTRESS IN THE WOODS

BRUNIQUEL PENNE THE VILLAGE WITH TWO CASTLES THE FORTIFIED OUTCROP

3 DECOUVERTESIMMERSE YOURSELF &IN CONTEMPLATIONS AN EXCEPTIONAL HERITAGE

CASTELNAU-DE-MONTMIRAL PATRIMOINE, VIEW OF THE VILLAGE PLEINECordes sur Ciel NATURE is the first of these & fortified villages. It was built ARTduring DE the VIVRE 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. THE TWO CASTLES BRUNIQUEL IMPENETRABLE CITADELS, HIGH BASTIDES AND FORTIFIED VILLAGES.

You’ll succumb to the charm of Castelnau-de-Montmiral, the Authentic film sets “viewpoint on the mount”, with its alleyways and medieval

square beyond compare, not forgetting the unrivalled view Film-makers know where to come! over Grésigne forest and the Vère valley. The fortified village of Robert Enrico’s memorable film from 1975, “The Old Puycelsi, nicknamed “the fortress in the forest”, stands high on Gun”, starring Philippe Noiret and Romy Schneider, was a rocky outcrop from where the views are unique and the sunset shot in Bruniquel. In 2018, the most beautiful in the region. Antoine Blossier showcased the charms of the region The castles of Bruniquel are truly a history book waiting to be with the filming of “Remi, Nobody’s Boy” in which Daniel read. On top of a cliff at a height of 90 metres, they invite you to Auteuil stars. The film features some ravishing views of contemplate the exceptional gorges, as does the village Cordes sur Ciel, the maze of little streets in Penne, the Place aux Arcades in Castelnau-de-Montmiral, and the of Penne with its fortress clinging like an eagle’s nest to the top beautiful landscapes of the surrounding of the most unlikely cliff. fields and valleys.

4 The most beautiful villages in

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 EAGLE’S NEST PENNE

CLOSER TO THE STARS CORDES SUR CIEL 5 Art & craft towns

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.

HISTORY OF THE ARTS ARTS & CRAFTS

HUMAN HISTORY BRUNIQUEL

6 MEDIEVAL MEANDERS HISTORY AND LANDSCAPE CORDES SUR CIEL WALL WALK - PUYCELSI DELVE INTO 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”! RAMBLING AND EXPLORING PENNE 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. At the beginnings of humanity MEDIEVAL MEANDERS AND A TREASURE HUNT The discovery of the Bruniquel cave revealed man- made structures dating back These squares are havens of peace. Take refuge in the shade of 176,500 years or so, placing them among the very first. the magnificent arches of Place des Arcades in Castelnau-de- These findings revolutionised the world of science, Montmiral, and admire the medieval market hall, the ancient taking Man’s first known occupation of caves much well and the square outside Sainte Catherine de Penne church in further back in history. Previously the official period Cordes sur Ciel. And when it’s time for a break, you’ll appreciate the dated from 38,000 years ago (Chauvet Cave). coolness of the parks. The enchanting decor of Bruniquel Castle

Learn the full story at an exhibition organised at gardens, or the Jardin des Paradis park in Cordes sur Ciel are ideal Bruniquel Castle, which retraces the adventure of the places to relax. pot-holers who made this discovery, as well as the first study carried out in In Cordes sur Ciel, a museum devoted to “Les Arts du Sucre et du 1992-93 and the new one that began in 2014. Chocolat” (Sugar & Chocolate Art” will appeal to a sweet tooth, while modern art lovers will head for the Musée des Arts Modernes et Contemporains. 7 ESCAPE TO THE GREAT OUTDOORS

NATURE SPORTS You absolutely must visit each of the villages, but getting from one AVEYRON GORGES village to the next is an experience in itself. The area around 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.

CHOOSE YOUR CARRIAGE

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.

GAILLAC VINEYARD VIEW FROM TOULZE FOOTPATH

8 VEW OF THE SARMAZES WALKING AND HIKING CORDES SUR CIEL GRÉSIGNE FOREST

9 SAVOURING FRUITS OF THE VINE AND LOCAL PRODUCTS

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, “CROQUANT” ALMOND BISCUITS you can even buy truffles! CORDES SUR CIEL

INDULGE IN A “CROQUANT” ALMOND BISCUIT

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 a glass 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. DOVECOTE 10 GAILLAC VINEYARD FATTENED DUCK FOIES GRAS, DUCK BREAST FILLET AND TERRINE

GROWERS’ MARKETS FRESH, HEALTHY PRODUCTS

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.

THE WINES 11 GAILLAC AND COTEAUX DU QUERCY SHARING THE PARTY SPIRIT

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 LE GRAND FAUCONNIER performances. Then it’s time for the famous table d’hôte with the CORDES SUR CIEL 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.

12 LES MUSICALES CASTELNAU-DE-MONTMIRAL 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.

THE BRUNIQUEL CASTLES FESTIVAL OFFENBACH COMICAL OPERA

THE APEROS CONCERTS 13 GAILLAC VINEYARD TRAVELOGUE

Cordes sur Ciel Bruniquel Puycelsi

Morning - Go up to Cordes sur Ciel and wander Morning - Explore the ancient little streets of Morning - Visit the honey farm for a gourmet through the little streets to explore a unique one of France’s most beautiful villages and walk treat or the Oppidum traditional soap factory heritage and discover artists and craftspeople! up to the Castles to see the setting of the film for natural care! Then visit the Charles Portal Museum to find “The Old Gun”. A visit to the exhibition on the A programme of authentic encounters. out more about the history of historic discovery of the Cave will unveil the Cordes sur Ciel. Have lunch at one of the mystery of Neanderthal Man. Midday - Have lunch in Puycelsi at one of the restaurants in the town. little restaurants around Place du Grand Roc Enjoy a lunch based on the excellent products and enjoy the breathtaking view over the Afternoon - Visit Yves Thuriès’ “Arts du Sucre of the South West, at one of the village Vère valley and the forest of Grésigne. et du Chocolat” and Modern & Contemporary restaurants. Art Museums and the Jardin des Paradis, then Afternoon - Walk around Puycelsi village and walk up to the Pied-Haut for Afternoon - Randoland: put on your detective continue with a hike along the Sentier du the ultimate view over Cordes. shoes and solve the enigmas on a family walk Patrimoine (heritage path) in the heart around the streets of Bruniquel(1). of Grésigne forest, For families, download the Have fun at the 3 Lacs water park at Monclar- in the cool shade of the oak trees. “Legends of ” app on your smartphone de-Quercy, in the heart of Quercy Vert, where From the path, there’s an amazing view over for a fun way to learn! you’ll find a lake, a slide, a multi-lane racer the village of Puycelsi. Now you slide, three swimming pools understand why they call it and other water features! “The Fortress in the woods”!

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

Penne (1) Guides are available for free at the Bruniquel Tourist Morning - Discover the village and it’s eagle- Office or online at www.gorges-aveyron-tourisme.com Castelnau-de-Montmiral nest fortress overhanging the Aveyron gorges. (2) The “Vigneron PASS“ for a special meeting with the winegrower (pass available at our Tourist Information Have lunch at one of the restaurants Morning - Visit Place des Arcades in Castelnau- Offices) in the village. de-Montmiral, one of the most beautiful villages For a list of outlets phone +33(0)805 400 828 (no in France, and enjoy getting lost in its little surcharge) or visit www.tourisme-vignoble-bastides.com Afternoon - Take a canoe down the Aveyron streets full of flowers. gorges. It’s a thrilling ride! And don’t forget to taste the local “Pic” cheese. Take the family to Late morning - Meet a Gaillac(2) winegrower see angora goats at a nearby farm. 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.

14 15 TOURIST OFFICE / Pays Cordais au Pays de Maison Gaugiran - 38-42 Grand Rue Raimond VII 81170 Cordes sur Ciel www.cordessurciel.fr Tél. +33(0)5 63 56 00 52

TOURIST OFFICE / Bastides & Vignoble du Gaillac Complete list of our tourist offices on www.tourisme-vignoble-bastides.com Tél. +33(0) 805 400 828 (free from landlines and mobile phones)

TOURIST OFFICE / Bruniquel 2 rue de la fraternité 82800 Bruniquel www.gorges-aveyron-tourisme.com Tél. +33(0)5 63 67 29 84 Crédits photos : Luc Béziat / Dominique Viet / Sylvain Pradal / Pascale Walter / Pierre Grand / / Pierre Grand Walter / Pascale Pradal / Sylvain Viet : Luc Béziat / Dominique Crédits photos Vijorovic / Michel / Daniel / Grégory Cassiau Laurent Frézouls Jacques Sierpinski / Pierre Grand / Mary Quincy Maison Bruyère / Joëlle Faure Fabre / R. Négrier Soulier / Benoist Piquart / Gérard Tarn. / CDT Vert-Aveyron Quercy / OTI

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