The Triangle d'Or in Tarn

The Tarn is considered by many as the prettiest department in Occitanie and the area connected by the UNESCO World Heritage city of Albi, the market town of Gaillac and the medieval village of Cordes-sur-Ciel is known as “the golden triangle”.

This is due to the rich variety of history, beauty, and gastronomy that can be discovered in abundance in this area.

Transportation and Accessibility

The “Triangle d’Or” is well connected to the city of Toulouse by the A68, which offers a direct route for commuters as well as a fast link from the international airport of Toulouse to the triangle, and the TGV runs straight up from Toulouse to Paris via Bordeaux.

The beauty of the landscape, commercial opportunities and good access have meant that the number of French, particularly Parisian, buyers in the area is growing – not only that, but you can also get more for your money and crime rates are lower.

Impact of UNESCO Status

Since becoming a UNESCO World Heritage site in July 2010, Albi has seen a notable increase in visitors, as well as more French and international property investment. Although it is now a protected area, the town is keen to ensure that daily life can coexist alongside its attractions.

Cultural Highlights of Albi

Albi is well known for its Toulouse-Lautrec museum and the beautiful red brick cathedral Sainte-Cécile. Construction began in 1282 and was meant to demonstrate Catholic power after the victory in the religious wars against the Cathars. During the 16th century, Italian painters created the exquisite Le Jugement Dernier on its interior walls.

About Cordes-sur-Ciel

Founded in 1222, Cordes is now a commune of just over 1,000 inhabitants. In 1993, the village was officially renamed Cordes-sur-Ciel, referring to the spectacular sight of morning mist enveloping the hilltop town and making its medieval buildings seem to float above a sea of clouds.

The town has inspired writers, artists and visitors for generations. T. E. Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia, visited Cordes in 1908 and was captivated by its architecture and shifting light. Local legend adds another touch of mystery: a sleeping dragon, the Bête de Mordagne, is said to lie beneath the hill, stirring beneath the medieval streets.

Natural Beauty and Community Life

The landscape surrounding Cordes and Albi is a mix of vineyards, forest, and rolling hillsides, and when combined with the heritage, amenities, and transport links, this area makes for an easy place to live.

The local community in Cordes is very active, with plenty of hiking trails, horse riding, tennis clubs, golf clubs, and art classes, making it popular for both permanent moves and second-home property investment.

Gaillac: A Market Town Full of Heritage

The market town of Gaillac lies 50 km north-east of Toulouse and is an AOC, renowned for its rich vineyards, which stretch over 4,200 hectares and were originally planted by the Romans.