Today, after telling you all about Kaysersberg, Cassel and Ploumanac’h we present a new favorite village of the French with Cordes-sur-Ciel. It’s a timeless place, a marvel that Camus admired. Its exceptional heritage, marked by imposing fortifications and numerous gates, plunges us into the heart of a truly magical panorama!
Cordes-sur-Ciel: one of France’s favourite villages within easy train reach of Paris
With 800 years of history, every step we take in the city reveals a unique heritage. Founded in November 1222, it is considered one of the first “bastides” in the region. The cobblestones lead us to an emblematic site of European heritage, where the sculpted facades, magnified by time and Gothic art, invite us to look up. The beauty of is matched by its rich history, where art, culture and history weave harmoniously.
La Halle, built in 1350 for the weaving and leather trades, symbolizes the prosperity of Cordes sur Ciel. The hundred-meter-deep Cordes “well” and the wrought-iron cross add to the mystical atmosphere. Opposite, the Maison du Grand Fauconnier, extended by the Maisons Prunet and Carrié-Boyer, stands with timeless elegance.
The main streets are brimming with shapes and colors, providing a backdrop for the creativity of the artists who call this area home. Art galleries invite you to explore paintings, sculptures and ceramics, revealing imaginary worlds. Meet passionate artists, ready to share the secrets behind their work.
Cordes sur Ciel doesn’t just offer a cultural journey; it also invites you to explore the surrounding countryside. Climbing, accrobranche, hiking, canoeing… there are plenty of options for adventure lovers. At the heart of the Garissou estate, for example, a wood of hundred-year-old oaks offers ten accrobranches courses for all levels, guaranteeing a memorable adventure.
Local specialities are also available to satisfy gourmets. Delicatessens, restaurants, bakeries… every corner of the city offers a unique gastronomic experience, enriching every visit. Cordes sur Ciel, with its blend of history, art, nature and gastronomy, is an invitation to marvel.
In short, Cordes sur Ciel is a jewel suspended in time, offering visitors a unique blend of history, art, nature and gastronomic delights. Its cobbled streets resonate with the echoes of 800 years of history, while Gothic facades and artists’ studios testify to the cultural richness of this medieval city. Whether you take the little train to reach the summits or explore the nature trails, every corner of Cordes sur Ciel reveals a new adventure. Come and discover it!
Read also: These 5 charming villages are among the French people’s favourites