ALBI - 'LA VILLE DE ROSE' - A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE click this link

Gothic Albi - 'La Ville de Rose', so named because of the building brick colour (rare in France) introduced by the Romans. A thriving impeccably restored ancient city, founded by the Romans as ALBIGA in 100BC. Scene of the 13th c. Albigensian crusade against the Cathar heretics. Atmospheric, bustling, but never too crowded to enjoy traffic free strolls around the old quarter, the river Tarn, Toulouse-Lautrec museum, 13th c. cloister gardens and extraordinary Gothic cathedral Sainte Cecile

This link will take you to a short but beautifully produced video featuring the many places to visit from 'The Barn' in our Midi Pyrenees region

Some ideas then..... Daily local markets, open air concerts, festivals, theatre, tours of 'bastides' and vineyards (you are welcomed for tasting and buying), cycling, running, rugby, golf, tennis, canoeing, no car needed for a stroll to a local chateau for winetasting. Cafes, bars, brasseries and restaurants available when you need that refreshment. The spectacular MILLAU VIADUCT (above) is 2 hours from The Barn, THE PYRENNEES, 2 hours drive. Also...........

Walking is very popular. The Barn is located a few paces from a national walking route. Books/maps are available featuring many local tranquil rural and forest walks

Golf year round (5 courses) is easily accessible, Albi is highly recommended, select english version http://www.golf-midi-pyrenees.com/

We will always help with tried and tested ideas, places to visit, things to do, directions, advice and recommendations such as...

CORDES-SUR-CIEL - the first and most beautiful 'Bastide' in France (originated c.1250 AD), 'Bastide' from the Latin for 'building' or 'building site'. Set high above the countryside (hence Ciel = heaven), traffic free and a must to visit for stunning panoramic views, outstanding period architecture, unique history, shops and refreshments.The 'Bastide' system, (unique to South West France) was initiated with the building of Cordes in the 13th c., to recover from the devastation of the Simon de Montfort crusade against the Cathars; resulting in a desperate need to create new economic communities. (Le Jouvenal is situated on the signposted BASTIDE ALBIGEOUS route). 'Les Jardins du Paradis', gardens a short visit at the base of CORDES, display a fascinating mix of unusual and familiar plants in quirky settings and structures.

GAILLAC - the hub market town. Friday market day, recommended for a browse, coffee or lunch. Friday evening open air concerts in the Abbey grounds, New Orleans jazz, classical, folk etc., a change each week. Including wine and light food, great value and lovely setting

CASTELNAU-de-MONTMIRAL - (see left) like CORDES a 'bastide' set high above the surrounding countryside, perhaps a little quieter and intimate. A gorgeous square overlooked by stunning examples of period architecture. In the square are the Tuesday market a brasserie, boulangerie and Hotel/restaurant.

St ANTONIN-NOBLE-VAL - beside the River Aveyron. Fascinating setting of the huge Sunday market and film 'Charlotte Grey' (DVD in The Barn). Start of tranquil canoo/kayak trips through the stunning gorge d'Aveyron