Discover a selection of the must-see during your visit to this perched village! Visit Cardaillac has many surprises.
Recognized as one of the more beautiful villages of the Hexagon , Cardaillac is a spectacular medieval site overlooking the Drauzou valley from the top of its rocky sparrow. Paradise of history enthusiasts, he owes his name to a powerful family who reigned on Quercy for several years. From its area of the fort dating from the 12th century to its typical red roofs, through its picturesque alleys, fall on the charm of this small town with Mediterranean accents. Through your explorations, you will fall on several medieval remnants with a myriad of stories to be heard. Visit Cardaillac has many surprises for you, which is why we have prepared this small practical guide.
1. The towers
Dominating the fort district majesticly, towers are the testimony of a powerful military past. Originally designed to defend a highly coveted strategic location, they are now part of Cardaillac’s magnificent historical painting for visitors. On a guided or free tour, explore the towers of Sagnes and Horloge.
The tower of Sagnes
Visit Cardaillac without seeing the beautiful fortified towers of the village would be a mistake. Classified Historic Monument, this ancient tower of defense — built in the 13th century — houses two superimposed halls connected by a very beautiful screwed staircase. On the top floor, discover a terrace that, from the top of its 21 meters, allows you to enjoy a unique view of the village.
The Tower of the Horloge
It was also listed as historical monuments, the Tower of Horloge was the property of the Cardaillac family until the Revolution. Formerly named the "Tour des Barons", she holds her current name of the municipal clock bell installed in her bosom in the 20th century. The latter is still active.
2. The Medieval Garden
Opt for a bucolic break in the middle of a hundred varieties of medicinal and tinctorial plants. Each of them is presented by a small description, it will be easy for you to know their origin and use in the Middle Ages.
After having enjoyed the setting a rustic groom of the garden, plunging instantly into the universe of the time, you can relax with family in the park around it. Lunch on its pleasant picnic area and let the children have fun in the game space for their greatest pleasure.
3. The Museum
To learn more about the old life of this small village, the Museum Ecolaté is a must in Cardaillac. Atypical enough, it is not in a single building, but in different buildings spread throughout the village.
With a guide you will pass from the Maison du sémalier to the bread oven, without forgetting the mills and chestnut dryer. In each of these places, you will discover hundreds of objects of the past daily life gathered by volunteers.
4. Cardaillac Savonnerie
Visit Cardaillac by passing by the soap factory is unthinkable! Do you feel these sweet effluves touching your nose? It’s Cardaillac’s soap factory that everything is happening. Keep in touch with the production of soap based on vegetable and essential oils according to a so-called “cold” process. Raise yourself to a panel of perfumes of antiquity today.
At the end, you may be able to make your home soaps. Is that tempting you?
5. The Saint-Julien Church of Cardaillac
Uncontournable for history lovers, Saint-Julien Church of Cardaillac He's been through the ages! Built initially by secular monks, it was rebuilt in the 17th century after it was misplaced by the Protestants during the wars of religion.
How to get to Cardaillac?
By train
Served by railway lines from Paris , Toulouse or Clermont-Ferrand , the Figeac train station is one of the best ways to get closer to Cardaillac if you don’t want to come by car.
Once you arrive in Figeac, the easiest way to get to Cardaillac seems to be the taxi. Count 12 minutes and approximately 30€ For the race.
By car
Coming by car to Cardaillac can also be an option, whether you have your own vehicle or have preferred to opt for rental.
- From Figeac: count less 20min driving along the D840.
- From Toulouse: Take the A20 motorway (extra charge) towards Paris-Limoges-Montauban.
Where to stay in Cardaillac?
In this splendid medieval painting, the accommodations do not go down, but some nuggets hide here and there. Do not hesitate to facilitate your research using a Compare hotels .
In the very heart of the village or in the surrounding communes, Airbnb to the villa by going through the cottage, choose the place that best fits you in enchanting frames.
So, what are you waiting to visit Cardaillac?
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