Cordes-sur-Ciel, a bastide perched high above the Albi region
About 20 kilometres from Albi, set off to explore Cordes-sur-Ciel, one of the oldest fortified towns in Occitanie !
Perched on its rocky outcrop, this medieval town, which is over 800 years old, overlooks the Cérou valley. Stroll through its cobbled streets, admire the Gothic façades of the houses or pop into one of the many artisan workshops. Here, every turn holds a surprise.
Gothic beauty in the Albigese region
With its breathtaking views, architectural treasures and artistic gems, Cordes invites you to experience a spellbinding journey into the medieval Tarn
Word of Mouth
Did you know that it was a poet who inspired the name Cordes-sur-Ciel? Upon seeing the village floating above the mist, Jeanne Ramel Cals gave it this nickname… a name that became official in 1993.
Your experiences to live in Cordes-sur-Ciel
©My Wild Travel – OTTO
Admire Cordes-sur-Ciel at dawn from the Pied Haut
Get up early and climb up to the Pied Haut viewpoint. At sunrise, Cordes seems to float in a cloud of mist. A magical and unforgettable sight...
Going for a walk on a donkey’s back
How about going for a walk with a donkey? With family or friends, stroll along the paths around the village in the company of these adorable, big-eared guides and enjoy a unique view of the medieval town!
©AGIT-OTTO
Join a guided tour like no other
Dragon legends, a medieval fair or the wild imaginings of a ‘crazy’ guide… Here, the guided tours come thick and fast, and no two are the same! Choose your era and your mood, and follow a colourful character to explore the bastide in a whole new way.
©My Destination – OTTO
Marvel at the talent of artists and craftspeople
Painters, potters, sculptors, jewellery designers, illuminators… Come and discover the local talent. Take the time to have a look, have a chat… and perhaps leave with a unique piece!
Ideas for everyone, all the time
From Jan. 1, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2026 from 7:30 a.m.
Marché de Cordes sur Ciel
Local producers, food shops, textile trades and florists...
Next dates:
- From 01/01/2026 to 12/31/2026
Open every day
An immersive and fun tour
What if the walls of Cordes could talk? With the EnQuête(s) mobile app, young and old alike can explore the medieval town like never before: 360° views, hidden secrets, historical re-enactments… An interactive experience to enjoy as a family, combining a digital treasure hunt with a journey back in time.
Outdoor escape game
Embark on a thrilling quest with the “Adventurers of the Grail”! This game, which is a cross between an escape game and a treasure hunt, takes you through the narrow streets of the bastide. Solve puzzles, decipher messages and let yourselves be swept away by this captivating story as a team!
Hot-air balloon ride
Enjoy a moment suspended in the air, just the two of you, above Cordes-sur-Ciel. The hot-air balloon rises gently, revealing breathtaking panoramic views over the village rooftops, the Cérou valley and the hills of the Pays Cordais.
Hike along the Chemin du Grain de Sel
When the leaves turn golden, set off along the Chemin du Grain de Sel for an 11 km walk around Cordes. This trail offers superb views of the town and the Cérou valley. An ideal walk to make the most of nature and the local heritage amidst the colours of autumn.
Museum of Sugar and Chocolate Arts
Bad weather is the perfect excuse to indulge in a little sweet treat! Head to the Museum of Sugar and Chocolate, housed in a medieval building, to admire some delicious sculptures, sample the house specialities and learn the art of biscuit-making. A delightful and utterly delicious break!
Map of Cordes-sur-Ciel
Prepare your stay at Cordes-sur-Ciel
Office de Tourisme de la Toscane Occitane
Accessibility
Cordes-sur-Ciel
# Accessible aux personnes à mobilité réduite : Accessibilité aux personnes à mobilité réduite et aux poussettes (places PMR en haut du village)
# Parking : Stationnement payant ou partiellement payant en fonction de la situation et de la période
# Parking : Emplacements de stationnement pour vélo
# Aire de stationnement pour camping-car : Aire de stationnement pour camping-cars à moins de 15 mn à pieds
# Navette vers activités annexes : Navette (petit train) de Pâques à Toussaint pour rejoindre le haut du village