Lisle-sur-Tarn

Lisle-sur-Tarn was founded by Raymond VII, count of Toulouse: under his rule, the bastides were invented as a system of fortified places to defend the region and to re-populate it. Lisle-sur-Tarn was one of the first bastides, and became a model for many of them: rectangular streets around a central square, and ramparts around the city. Lisle-sur-Tarn was a special place, because of its harbour: the river Tarn was one of the most important means of transport in the region, up to the 19th century when the railroad replaced it. For the export of Gaillac wine, the Tarn was essential: via Tarn and Garonne it reached Bordeaux, where it was transshipped to reach regions in the north; for example it became the famous “claret” in England.

Today, nothing remains of the former port. The ramparts and towers were demolished in 19th century. The monumental church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Jonquière remains a landmark, as in ancient times, when Lisle-sur-Tarn was an important halting-place on the pilgrimage to Compostella. The town is still a nice place, the narrow streets impeding modern transport. The central square is the largest in the region, with nice terraces, where you can taste the Gaillac wine. You don't need much fantasy to imagine the square 100 years ago, especially on Sunday, whith the market stalls are around the monumental fountain, the “griffoul”. In summertime, kids are playing on the square, and adults use it for their “jeu de boules”...

Nearby is the local museum, perhaps more important for admiring the ancient house than for the local collections. On the Place des Arcades is the Chocolate Arts Museum, a joint initiative of a retired chocolatier-pâtissier and a sculptor, great for kids and adults. No, it is not allowed to lick the chocolate statues; before leaving the place you'll taste some chocolate samples.

Lisle-sur-Tarn is on two touristic routes: the route des bastides albigeoises, connecting the bastides around Albi, and the Gaillac Wine route, for discovering the region by car or motorbike. Nature is marvelous, the landscapes are beautiful: walking or cycling are guaranteed the way to benefit most of your holiday.

Bed and Breakfast Artichaud is located in Castelnau-de-Montmiral, in the center of this region, and on walking distance of Lisle-sur-Tarn. Our B & B is an ecological place, very comfortable; our delicious meals are made of organic food products.