Situated in the Midi Pyrenees, South West France, the Tarn region combines all the ingredients necessary for an authentic French holiday. Surrounded by lakes, mountains and forests, and within reach of historic cities such as Albi, birthplace of Toulouse Lautrec, Cordes, a fortified hilltop town, Castres, home to a wonderful collection of Goya's paintings, and Toulouse, the Tarn offers everything.

ALBI
Albi, the capital of the department of the Tarn, is a city of history and culture. It stands on the banks of the magnificent Tarn river and St Cecile, the impressive 12th century cathedral, dominates the skyline. Reputedly built to impose the catholic faith on the Cathars the cathedral certainly does impose itself on your memory and the interior is absolutely stunning. Very close to the cathedral is the Toulouse Lautrec museum which contains over 1000 pieces of the great man's work. Incidentally the nearby Toulouse Lautrec restaurant is very, very good - if a little expensive. Elegant shops, cafes and restaurants ensure a very good day out.

CORDES
Cordes is a wonderful Bastide town. It has become a centre for artists and has many chic shops and studios. It does however become crowded at the height of the season but it must be seen so you'll just have to put up with the crowds. There are lots of cafes and restaurants so at least you will not go hungry!

CASTRES
Castres is the commercial centre of the department. It has many good shops and restaurants (including our favourite fish restaurant, The Pescado) and has the Goya Museum - which is a must for all of you with even the smallest trace of culture.

TOULOUSE
Toulouse is a wonderful city. One day might not be enough so it is just as well that we are only 45 minutes from Toulouse city centre. There are Museums, two cathedrals, art galleries, a daily market (you won't believe some of the food you can buy), restaurants, cafes and chic shops to relieve you of any spare cash you might have left.