Sitting on the banks of the River Aveyron as it meanders its way through the gorgeous scenery of the Tarn-et-Garonne region, is the medieval town of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val.
It has long been a favourite destination of the French but is less well-known to foreign holiday makers though it’s position as one of the top 3 villages the French love in 2016 has put it firmly on the tourist map.
Magnificent, medieval and magical
Nestled in a hollow of the Gorges of Aveyron with a majestic backdrop of the steep cliffs of the Roc d’Anglars, the 2000-year-old village is probably more familiar to most people than they realise. It was the location for the film “The hundred-foot journey” with Helen Mirren and the town’s star quality is evident.
This town is home to the oldest civil building in France, the Maison des Consuls which dates back to 1120. A place of winding streets lined with medieval houses, art galleries and quirky shops. Sitting in the central square, Place de la Halle, enjoying coffee or wine and watching the world go by is one of life’s priceless pleasurable moments. There’s a fabulous Sunday morning market and plenty of restaurants where local products and especially cheeses, and seasonal dishes are a source of exquisite indulgence.
Get out of town and enjoy excellent activities such as horse riding, paragliding, canoeing-kayaking, rock climbing and hiking.
The area makes for a great base, close to Albi, Villefranche-de-Rouergue, Cordes-sur-Ciel, officially one of the most beautiful villages in France and many other beautiful towns and villages.
