I'm a firm believer of the saying - "Don't listen to what they say, go see it instead!" And I'm glad because if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, I would've not believed the existence of the quaint little town of Cordes-sur-ciel!
There are places that make you want to write paragraphs on them, and then there are those that leave you speechless. Cordes-sur-ciel is the latter, I've been to this Fairytale town twice now and I would probably go there again in a heartbeat. It's so beautiful, it was voted as the favourite village of France in 2014!
When people talk about France, they usually start and stop at Paris. To me, France is so much more than its capital (which is absolutely magnificent in itself)! The real essence of France is in its mesmerizing little villages and towns.
A Little About Cordes-Sur-Ciel
Cordes-sur-ciel is a fortified town in the Tarn Department in South-West France, built back in 1200s. It is one of the most beautiful places I've ever visited! The cobblestone streets and alleys are bound to make you feel like you've just entered into a fairytale. Walking from one passageway to another, you won't realise when you get lost in the beauty of this town whose name roughly translates to Floating above the skies, I believe.
Cordes is particularly famous for the Gothic residences built between 1280 and 1350. It's an absolute muse for photographers (as you can see), for you'll find beautiful gothic archways and timber framed building at every turn! What's so special about it is that it's relatively well-preserved with tons of narrow streets to explore.
What To See There
I mean honestly, the whole town is a must see destination in itself. The fascinating architecture combined with its amazing position perched on top of a hill surrounded by the beautiful Midi-Pyrenees countryside make it a sight to behold! But once you're there you must visit :
1. Sugar Arts Museum and Chocolate
Locally known as Musée des Arts du Sucre et du Chocolat in French, this museum houses sculptures made entirely of sugar and chocolate. It was created in 1989 by the confectionery master Yves Thuriès. Major Hansel and Gretel vibes!
2. Les Halles de Cordes sur ciel
The halles is a medieval market hall in the middle of the town, it's a must see historical monument in the town. Most french towns of this size have a similar hall in the centre.
3. Le Jardin des Paradis (The Paradise Garden)
Created in 1998 by Eric Ossart and Arnaud Maurières, landscape architects, the Garden of Paradise is an exotic contemporary garden where art meets plants! It's the perfect place to enjoy a brunch.
4. Eglise St. Michel
If you haven't visited the church of the French city/town you're in, have you really visited that place? Cordes-sur-ciel is no exception to this rule!
5. Monument du souvenir (A bronze sculpture)
This is a fascinating bronze sculpture by sculptor Pendoric JJ, that promotes peace. It has several characters, including a dove taking flight. But the best part about this sculpture is the location which is also the best view point!
6. An exhibit dedicated to Ma Ananda Moyi
I stumbled upon this rather mysterious hommage exhibit to Ma Ananda Moyi, an Indian saint, while strolling. Imagine my surprise! You must visit it, as it's pretty fascinating and also has a beautiful balcony overlooking the central hall.
These are my top 6 places, but there are some other wonderful museums (musée in french) like Le Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain, Musée Historama and several beautiful gates like Porte de l'horloge (The clock gate). The 14th Century Maison du Grand Veneur is my favourite of the Gothic buildings.
What To Eat & Drink
Your visit to Cordes will be incomplete without trying the croquant de Cordes. These flat almond biscuits are a delicacy from the town! You must also try the local wines from the Occitane region. There are some cute eateries and cafes around Les Halles too for trying the local delicacies and dishes!
Shopping & Workshops
I won't call it a famous shopping destination, but in the 1940s Cordes was discovered by a group of artists, a tradition which continues today with around 50 artists living and working here. So, if you are a sucker for local art and craft shops comme moi, then you will not return empty handed from Cordes!
There are some amazing jewellery and watch making workshops as well for you to try at the stores. Unfortunately, I went during COVID when they were closed, but I found a treasure still. A merch store with all things Harry Potter that was a part of a bigger store full of cute stuff!
Getting There
Cordes-sur-ciel is easily accessible by car and bus. If you're bringing your own vehicle, you can park it for free at the entrance easily. If you want to use public transport, take a train/bus to Albi and then take bus (Autocar) 707 from there till Cordes sur ciel for 2 Euros (Rs. 180). The closest metropolitan is Toulouse, which in itself is a great city to visit!
All in all, Cordes-sur-ciel needs to be on your list if you're visiting South-west France. It's just the day-trip you need to drive away all worries. Keep scrolling for some visuals!
The next time, you feel like writing your own fairytale, you know where to go!
I travelled to over 25 French cities and towns, including Cordes in 7 months as part of a program called Assistant De Langue and got paid for it. Tap here to read all about it!
Would you like to know more fascinating places like Cordes-sur-ciel? Follow my journey and explorations on Instagram.
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