: Cordes-sur-Ciel

Cordes-sur-Ciel is a spectacularly perched medieval hilltop town in the Tarn department, consistently listed among the most beautiful villages in France. Its name means "Ropes in the Sky", referring to the way the fortified town appears to float above the misty valley of the Cérou River. Founded in 1222 as a bastide during the Albigensian Crusade.

There is no railway station. The nearest stations are Albi (25 km) or Gaillac (15 km). By car, the D600 road winds up from the valley.

The upper town is pedestrian-only — no cars within the walls. The steep cobbled streets are the only way. An electric shuttle runs from the lower parking.

The market hall (Halle), the Maison du Grand Fauconnier, and the Maison du Grand Veneur with sculpted facade. The Musée de l'Art du Sucre. The ramparts and gate towers.

Explore the labyrinth of alleys and covered passageways. The Sunday market. The medieval festival in July. Artisan workshops.

Tarn cuisine: foie gras, confit de canard, aligot, cassoulet. Many restaurants in medieval stone cellars.

Gaillac wines (sparkling, still, sweet). Local fruit liqueurs.

Atmospheric hotels in medieval buildings. Chambres d'hôtes and gîtes within the walls. Cheaper options in the lower town.

Local pottery, glassware, handmade jewellery, paintings. Gaillac wine, honey, lavender, Tarn cheeses.

Albi (25 km) for the UNESCO Episcopal City. Gaillac for wine tasting. The Gorges du Tarn. Toulouse.