Lavaur: the perfect destination to escape to the Pays de Cocagne

A true little corner of paradise for lovers of nature and wide open spaces, the Pays de Cocagne offers magnificent panoramas that change with the seasons. On the edge of the Tarn border, it has a few surprises in store for vacationers and travelers looking to get away as a couple, with friends or family. A great discovery in the Tarn!

Lavaur, the capital of the Pays de Cocagne to visit in the Tarn

Welcome to Lavaur a town of character with a rich heritage that bears witness to its medieval past at 1h from the Montagne Noire. A tourist itinerary takes you to discover this charming town where many houses have timber-framed facades and half-timbering, giving it a special character. Wander the streets and alleys to reach the many tourist sites of Lavaur:

• The Gothic Cathedral of Saint-Alain, one of the most beautiful masterpieces of medieval Gothic architecture.
• The path of the Tours des Rondes which reveals the dramatic history of the Cathars.
• The English-style Bishop's Palace gardens.
• Bressolles Square, pretty French gardens.

Continue your stroll along the banks of the Agout before planning your activities for the day. Lavaur and its surroundings have no shortage of ideas to keep young and old busy all year round.

Lavaur, a lively town in the heart of the Tarn countryside

Whether sporty, aquatic or fun, the activities offered in Lavaur and the surrounding area delight lovers of escape who can:

• Ride horses in the many equestrian centers and stud farms in the region,
• Go hiking or cycling on marked trails along the Agout River or in the countryside,
• Take a first flight in a microlight, hot air balloon or paraglider to admire the sumptuous panoramas of the Pays de Cocagne,
• Discover farm animals alongside passionate producers,
• Go fishing at Lac de Geignes, a 15-hectare hillside lake surrounded by a natural wooded landscape.

Here's something to keep you busy during your stay in Lavaur or the surrounding area!

Lavaur, a pleasant town to stay in Tarn

The history of the capital of the Pays de Cocagne is fascinating and colorful, as the town is linked to the trade in the famous blue woad, derived from a beautiful plant. Pastel stores still exist in the area, as do the old pastel granaries above the houses. For a memorable getaway in Lavaur, here are the addresses you won't want to miss:

• The 3* Ibis Style Hotel, with its 58 air-conditioned rooms and modern comforts.
• L'œuf de Coq, a gourmet restaurant with personalized recipes
• The traditional Ô2M restaurant, simple and refined
• Sushi d'Aqui restaurant, featuring local produce
• Les Pasteliers, a 2* hotel and restaurant featuring local cuisine
• The Dgrandiose boutique, specializing in home comforts and delicatessen products.

You're sure to love spending a few days in Lavaur in the Tarn!

Lavaur, some villages to visit in the surrounding area

Take a well-deserved break after days of activity! The Pays de Cocagne is made up of charming villages to discover during your stay, including:

• The pretty village of Ambres, 10 minutes from Lavaur, perched on heights, offers a breathtaking view of the confluence of the Agout and Dadou rivers.
• Saint-Paul-Cap-de-Joux 20 minutes from Lavaur, a village whose first traces date back to the Gallo-Roman era. Its Saint-Paul church is a must-see.
• Belcastel, a former stronghold 15 minutes from Lavaur, with its magnificent Saint-Etienne church and 22-meter-high stone dungeon tower.

The list is not exhaustive, but gives you some ideas for exploring the surroundings of Lavaur.

Enjoy your stay in the Land of Plenty!

Did you like our article? Find more on our Blog "Experiences to live". Follow us on the Facebook page of the Guide du Tarn Aveyron and on Instagram @guidedutarnaveyron