Discover Saint-paul-d'espis, Gem of Tarn-et-Garonne

This 2 km loop takes you through the Vallon de Gasques. The Vallon de Gasques Sensitive Natural Area covers 17.5 ha and features a wide variety of habitats—stream, wetlands, ponds, woodland, meadows, cliffs—as well as several heritage elements, including fountains, washhouses, and dry stone walls. Along the trail, you can discover: The fauna and flora of old orchards: little owls, hawfinches, European orioles, bats… and numerous orchid species; A wet meadow associated with a tall-herb meadow, supporting rare and lush biodiversity; A collection of ponds of varying sizes and types; A swampy alder grove fed by the Barbe stream; A semi-natural dry grassland; A rolling landscape with cliffs and springs; A washhouse, much appreciated by salamanders.

This sporty and scenic loop, starting from the hamlet of Cornillas, follows the slopes of the Gasques vineyard before descending into the Barguelonne valley through poplar groves, alongside the Barguelonne River. The trail offers magnificent viewpoints over the town of Valence d’Agen and the valley. You’ll also catch sight of the Château de Goudourville.

Boudou, a welcoming village situated on the Way of St James, invites visitors to explore its varied landscape. The route winds its way through hillsides, ridges and valleys. Orchards and vineyards form vast geometric patterns, punctuated by irrigation ponds and traditional dovecotes.  Below the village, the 13th-century Romanesque chapel of Saint-Pierre d’Ax is a true historical and cultural landmark. Nestled near the banks of the Saurrèze stream, it is a little gem of stone surrounded by fields. Facing the water, it is steeped in a rural and mysterious atmosphere, thanks to the presence of alchemical symbols on and within the building. Practical information:  Follow the yellow markings

Explore the Cabarieux valley on a hike through a succession of Chasselas vineyards, rolling hills, meadows and orchards. Embark on a bucolic escapade in the heart of this flourishing region dedicated to arboriculture.

The route starting from the Castels mill passes by the picturesque Chapelle de Castels, follows an old Roman road, and offers beautiful viewpoints over the valley (and the Golfech site). Along the way, you’ll enjoy old stone houses, farmsteads, and dovecotes. Be warned: the climb up to the chapel is very strenuous.

Starting from the outdoor activity centre, this flat route, entirely within the valley, allows you to discover the lake at the confluence of the Tarn and Garonne rivers. From this bird observatory, you can follow the paths to the castle and arcades of Saint-Nicolas-de-la-Grave.

This very sportive circuit will allow you to discover a rich natural heritage where the variety of landscapes and and superb viewpoints follow one another all along the route.

From the Abbey of Saint-Maurin, in the Escorneboeuf valley, to the Ferrussac mill located on the Séoune river, this circuit crosses orchards and crosses "the border" of Tarn-et-Garonne. During the walk, stop at the museum of rural life and trades of the past of Saint-Maurin, where you will discover the daily life of the village in the 1900s. This village is imbued with an original legend. According to a Moissagais manuscript, Maurin, born in Agen, came back to the country after studying in Italy to convert the people of Agen to Christianity. The pagan governor of Lectoure had him imprisoned, but Maurin escaped with the soldiers guarding him. All those who escaped were recaptured and beheaded in Anglars, where the village was established. According to the legend, Maurin carried his head near a fountain where the Christians of Anglars buried his body.

This easy route has only one real hill before reaching the church of Saint-Pierre-del-Pech. The route continues along a shaded path and then on an open plateau, allowing you to discover the surrounding hillsides and some farms with stone dovecotes.

A magnificent viewpoint over the town, its monuments, the Tarn river, the canal running alongside the Garonne and the surrounding orchards.

Les Écuries de Saint Vincent provide a lush 20-hectare setting ideal for horseback riding. They offer a wide range of activities, from lessons and competitions to equitherapy, as well as trail rides and training programs. Les Écuries de Saint Vincent offer high-quality facilities: an indoor arena, an outdoor arena, stalls and open stables, a tack room, a Club House, as well as paddocks and pastures ensuring the horses' well-being. Open to all levels, from beginners to advanced riders competing in show jumping (CSO) and eventing (CCE), the club offers tailored lessons, various training programs (classical riding, ethology, treks, activities…), and preparation for riding exams. An equitherapy program is available for individuals with mental, motor, or sensory disabilities. Horse owners can also board their horses in a peaceful and green setting. A guesthouse is available for visitors wishing to stay on-site. The club organizes special events: competitions, unique birthday celebrations, gatherings with friends… A welcoming and immersive experience awaits!

The Goudourville Castle was built on a rocky outcrop. It is an authentic 11th century castle, embellished during the Renaissance and remodeled in the 18th century. You enter through a large Guard Room, with an adjoining lounge. The large enclosed gardens around the castle welcome you for lunches in front of a wonderful view. It is possible to organize all kinds of events there: family vacations, birthdays, country weddings, medieval weddings with costumes, shows, banquets, etc.

Located in a former lock keeper's house, this guesthouse welcomes you along the lateral canal of the Garonne, on the legendary Way of Saint James. Whether you are a pilgrim, a cyclist, or simply a lover of the canal, this guesthouse invites you to relax and share special moments. Overnight stay with or without half-board, in a dormitory or private room.

The route follows the channel of the two seas with its majestic plane trees, before continuing towards Lamagistère. In Donzac, do not miss the Conservatoire des Métiers d'Autrefois. The route continues through Auvillar before reaching Valence d'Agen. Starting point: bike stop near the Canal des Deux Mers, at the former Valence d'Agen slaughterhouse ("abattoir").

This flat route, starting from the old slaughterhouse in Valence d'Agen, allows you to explore the shaded roads that line the poplar groves of the Garonne Valley. The (sporty) variant takes you up to Auvillar. Starting point: bike stop near the Canal des Deux Mers, at the former Valence d'Agen slaughterhouse ("abattoir").

A stone's throw from the Tarn et Garonne, in the heart of the Serres country and the Séoune valley, this old 19th century farmhouse is located in the heart of the century, entirely renovated in stone, will seduce you by its tranquility and its view. Totally independent, the fonds de Fouyssac gîte of 112m² and on one level, includes a large living room with equipped kitchen, a living room with dining and sitting area, 3 bedrooms (1 bed 160, 1 bed 140, 2 beds 90), a bathroom communicating between 2 bedrooms (shower), an additional shower room and separate toilet. Outside, open garden of 1 ha, terrace and garden furniture, shady corners, wash house, meadows, car park, farm buildings. To see, Bastides and picturesque villages (Puymirol, Beauville, Montjoi, Auvillar, Moissac, Lauzerte ...) hiking / mountain biking nearby (P.R, Clunisian path), petanque ...

Fishing gite. South West, character house with old-time charm, typical of Garonne Plain, located right by Tarn-et-Garonne and Midi-Pyrenees, near Voie Verte du Canal (green bike path along the canal) and River Garonne.

Beer bar, events, concerts.

In the heart of the medieval village of Saint-Maurin, in the Pays de Serres region, Le Clos Saint Maurin is housed in a restored 1805 residence near Agen. Surrounded by half-timbered houses, the market hall, and the ruins of the Benedictine abbey, this bed-and-breakfast accommodates up to eleven guests. It offers five rooms, each with its own distinct atmosphere: La Caducée, converted from the former doctor’s office; La Green; L’Adagio; Clair de Lune; and La Récréation. Four rooms feature a 160 x 200 cm bed; Clair de Lune, designed for three people, includes a round bed measuring 200 x 200 cm. The rooms are equipped with a television. A large lounge reserved for guests completes the floor. Outside, the 2.5-hectare estate opens onto a wooded, shaded park, perfect for strolling and relaxing. The pool lets you enjoy sunny days in the tranquility of the valley through which the Escorneb?uf R

This small village house, curiously nestled at the foot of the remains of the 11th century abbey church, is a charming nest that will allow you to discover the charms of the South West. This lodging is atypical and old, I wished to make it the most pleasant possible, with many equipment to facilitate your stay. It is rather intended for the families which wish to visit the area, while profiting from a comfortable foot with ground at very soft price.

A medieval chapel from the XIIIᵉ-XIVᵉ centuries, linked to Moissac and Arnaud d'Euse, Saint-Pierre d'Ax retains remarkable architecture and a XVIᵉ century bell. Remodeled in the XVᵉ, it conceals strong alchemical symbols. A history steeped in time Originally attached to the seigneury of Montesquieu, the chapel was also one of the many possessions of the Abbey of Moissac. Built in the XIIIᵉ and XIVᵉ centuries, it dates back to the time when Arnaud d'Euse, bishop of Cahors and future pope of Avignon under the name of Jean XXII, marked his time as a protector of the sciences and an alchemist! In the Middle Ages, these isolated chapels were sometimes the scene of intellectual gatherings, even though such practices were forbidden. Even today, Saint-Pierre d'Ax bears the marks of its past, with its rectangular floor plan, flat chevet and triangular bell tower-wall, typical of the region, featuring three bell windows. One of these bays houses a XVIᵉ century bell, weighing around 137 kg, still in good condition despite its great age. The interior unveils a vault that faithfully reproduces that of the Notre-Dame chapel in the Saint-Martin church in Moissac, and remarkable features such as a Eucharistic armarium and a holy water stoup bearing the intriguing inscription: "Far from discord here". A link to alchemy More than just a religious building, Saint-Pierre d'Ax is intriguing for its design, inspired by the Temple of Solomon. Remodeled in the XVᵉ century by alchemists and philosophers, the chapel contains mysterious symbols. In particular, the choir's three windows illustrate alchemical themes such as the two Natures or the Sun, adding an esoteric dimension to its architecture.

A small area (120 m²) of the dry grassland is classified as “Semi-Natural Dry Grassland with Shrub Encroachment on Limestone”, a Habitat of Community Interest. It is mainly dominated by grasses, most commonly species of Festuca and Bromus, accompanied by a few orchids and rockroses. The steep slope limits shrub encroachment, but the northern edge (top of the slope) is gradually closing in with shrub formations, particularly blackthorn and wild rose, along with field elms that need to be preserved. The Management Plan aims to expand this rare habitat on the northern part of the site, while maintaining some shrubby areas that are favorable for nesting and feeding of Mediterranean bird species, notably the Woodlark (Lullula arborea).

The commune of Gasques is located on a serre (a narrow, elongated ridge several kilometers long, lying between two parallel valleys cutting into a limestone plateau) bounded by two rivers, the Séoune and the Barguelonne, which flow from northeast to southwest toward the Garonne. This section of the plateau has been incised by small tributary streams, creating the emblematic landscape of the Barbe stream valley, with its cliffs and discreet springs.

The swampy alder grove relies on proximity to a watercourse or groundwater to survive. Here, it is subject to the periodic flooding of the meandering Barbe stream. The stream is fed by two sources: a main one between the hamlets of Barbe and Croix d’Astel, and a secondary one near Granges Hautes, before joining the Carretou stream on the other side of the D46, at the boundary of the Sensitive Natural Area.

The Communauté de Communes des Deux Rives has created a series of ponds of varying sizes, exposures, and types (forest and edge ponds) across the site to compensate for the loss of the original waterbody, while providing a greater diversity of habitats that support rich biodiversity. The banks have been reshaped with gentle slopes to encourage the growth of aquatic and marsh plants, and the ponds have been lengthened to facilitate the flight of bats from the Natura 2000 site “Cavities and Associated Slopes in Quercy-Garonne”, which hunt and drink over the water surface.

The wet meadow is bordered by a hygrophilous tall-herb fringe (meadow tall-herb habitat), a Habitat of Community Interest (endangered, vulnerable, or rare in Europe). This habitat consists of dense, perennial, tall vegetation (1 to 1.5 m) and typically develops along riverbanks subject to periodic flooding. Within the Sensitive Natural Area, it has benefited from an edge effect in a low-lying position between the meadow and the alder woodland, allowing it to thrive. It supports rare and luxuriant biodiversity!

You will often find my larvae at the water surface, enjoying the warmer water. As a larva, I can be recognized by a small pale spot at the base of each leg. As an adult, you’ll often see me slowly wandering along roads and woodland paths after rain. I am... the spotted salamander!

Vallon de Gasques' Sensitive Natural Area extends over 17.5 ha with very diverse habitats (stream, wetlands, ponds, woods, meadows, cliffs) and several elements of heritage interest (fountains, wash houses, drystone low walls...). A 2 km path which will take you through the Vallon de Gasques. You will be able to discover: - the fauna and flora of old orchards: little owl, hawfinch, Eurasian golden oriole, bats... and also many species of orchids; - a wet meadow associated with a megaphorbia, with its rare and luxuriant biodiversity; - a set of ponds of different sizes and types; - an alder marsh on a wet meadow along the Barbe stream; - a semi-natural dry lawn; - a hilly landscape with cliffs and springs; - a washhouse, perfect habitat for salamanders.

The old orchards attract a range of special visitors accustomed to these habitats. The little owl, with its golden eyes, may nest in the cavities of old apple or pear trees. The fruit often attracts a few hungry birds: hawfinches for the cherries and European orioles for the figs. Many insects drawn to the flowers and fruit become preferred prey in the evenings for several bat species. A fairly diverse but common array of orchids grows between the rows of fruit trees: Pyramidal Orchid, Goat Orchid, Purple Orchid, Bee Orchid, and Woodcock Orchid, with the slightly rarer Serapias with elongated labellum also present.

The Goudourville Castle was built on a rocky outcrop. It is an authentic 11th century castle, embellished during the Renaissance and remodeled in the 18th century. You enter through a large Guard Room, with an adjoining lounge. The large enclosed gardens around the castle welcome you for lunches in front of a wonderful view. It is possible to organize all kinds of events there: family vacations, birthdays, country weddings, medieval weddings with costumes, shows, banquets, etc.

Bar-restaurant located in Malause. Restaurant open Monday through Friday for lunch: traditional French cuisine, salads, and burgers. On weekends, enjoy cheese and charcuterie boards.

Beer bar, events, concerts.

A stopover on the way to Santiago de Compostela and labeled among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Auvillar is easily identified by its surprising circular grain market in the heart of the village. A warm and special atmosphere emanates from the traditional homes made of a mixture of red bricks and white stones. The ancient Gallo-Roman city experienced its golden age with earthenware and the goose feather industry. Besides the market square, take the time to stroll through the streets to admire the clock, the church, the castle square and its view of the Garonne, the rue des nobles, the wash house and go down to the port to admire the Sainte Catherine chapel. Don't miss out on discovering the art and craft galleries, the exhibition at the Tourist Office, the museum of old Auvillar, and take a break in the many restaurants of this small village. Every Sunday morning, producers await you on the square for the traditional market.

Casual fine dining restaurant located in Auvillar. On Sundays, brunch menu from 11am to 3pm.

Wine bar and tapas, upon prior reservation By reservation from 7pm, the Orliac sisters can welcome you to their property to enjoy a magnificent view of the hillsides bordering the Garonne river. There you will taste tapas made with local products and wines of deliciousness and aromatic richness, often characterized by noble and chiselled tannins.

Discover a regional cuisine in a friendly atmosphere. From the dining room or from the panoramic terrace in fine weather, you will taste a cuisine prepared with local products and from elsewhere, accompanied by regional wines. Breakfasts: we offer a tasty self-service and unlimited buffet: fresh croissants, brioche, milk bread, cake, etc. all accompanied by homemade jams, compotes and Nutella! You are also offered an assortment of cereals, yogurt .. Drinks: tea, coffee, chocolate, orange juice, fresh fruit or fruit salad (depending on the season) await you according to your desires. Do make enquiries when the restaurant is closed. Restaurant open for lunch only upon reservation..

La Table en Brulhois welcomes you to discover a traditional cuisine of the South-West. It is with conviviality, in the small village of Saint-Sixte located on the banks of the Garonne, that Isabelle and her team of also proposes to you, in summer, its shaded terrace to prolong your evenings.

Newly opened this year, La Table du Roi, a social and solidarity restaurant, welcomes you to the heart of the village of Beauville. Takeaway available.

We have 2 restaurant rooms, one of which is mainly reserved for groups. We can also receive you for your work meetings; for your comfort this restaurant has a Wifi coverage. A large parking lot is at your disposal. Discover the quality of our reception, our services and our opening hours. Sandrine is at your disposal so that young and old spend a pleasant moment in her restaurant. A traditional cuisine, our seasonal products and our wine list will satisfy the most demanding taste buds!

The Brasserie des Platanes in Brulhois is located in the heart of a small 12th century country house You can have breakfast, lunch or dinner in a friendly atmosphere. A south-western cuisine in the Italian way will be proposed to you.

Communal stopover lodge in Pommevic, perfectly suited to welcoming cyclists along the greenway and pilgrims on the Way of Saint James. The Gîte de la Pommeraie in Pommevic is a charming accommodation located along the Canal des Deux Mers, ideal for hosting solo travellers, families or groups of friends. The building, dating from before the 19th century, offers 5 rooms that can accommodate up to 12 people. It is fully equipped for comfort, including single and double beds, a room accessible to people with reduced mobility and numerous amenities such as an oven, a dishwasher, a microwave and ironing equipment. The lodge also features a garden, a plancha grill, and accepts pets.

Located in a former lock keeper's house, this guesthouse welcomes you along the lateral canal of the Garonne, on the legendary Way of Saint James. Whether you are a pilgrim, a cyclist, or simply a lover of the canal, this guesthouse invites you to relax and share special moments. Overnight stay with or without half-board, in a dormitory or private room.

Perfectly situated for cyclists traversing the Canal des Deux Mers, this guest room serves as an excellent base for discovering the treasures of Valence d'Agen. This spacious and comfortable room features an independent entrance, a 140x190 bed, a bathroom with WC, a television, and WiFi access. For your convenience, a coffee maker and tea maker are available in the room. Enjoy a gourmet, homemade breakfast, served either in the enchanting atmosphere of the interior courtyard under a magnificent glass roof or in the owners' cozy dining room.

Treat yourself to a getaway 'By the Canal' in this charming guest room with a garden, perfectly situated near the Canal des 2 Mers. Let the canal's charm captivate you, making it ideal for peaceful strolls and bike rides. Ideally located close to all amenities and just a few steps from the Canal des 2 Mers, this guest room is the perfect starting point to explore the region and its many wonders. The room, tastefully and elegantly decorated, offers cozy comfort and a stunning view of the landscaped garden. You can relax on the sunny terrace or in the cozy lounge, perfect for reading and friendly chats. Each morning, enjoy a gourmet breakfast with fresh, local products - a true delight for your taste buds. Thanks to its location, you can easily walk to the restaurants, bars, shops, and attractions of Valence d'Agen.

The 2 stars campsite of the leisure water center welcomes youin a the campsite labeled «Accueil vélo» and «Hébergement pêche» on 1.5 ha, in a natural, sporty and family atmosphere. The Base for Leisure Activities at Saint-Nicolas-de-la-Grave, located at the confluence of the Tarn and Garonne rivers, offers 25 hectares of nature and a wide range of sporting and nautical activities: sailing, canoeing, paddling, boat trips, archery, cycling and fishing (card required). The site offers 39 shaded pitches, 2 bivouac tents and 1 tent for 5 people. You'll also find mobile swimming pools, a picnic area with children's games, and a restaurant, “La Cabane”. Every Thursday evening in the summer, free summer evenings are organized. Nearby, the largest bird sanctuary in southern France adds a natural dimension to your stay. Please note that swimming in the lake is prohibited for safety reasons.

Val de Costes is located on the border of Lot-et-Garonne and Tarn-et-Garonne, which are known for their natural beauty. It is a good base for exploring the region The house is a mansion built in 1866 which was completely restored and renovated in 2012.

A stone's throw from the Tarn et Garonne, in the heart of the Serres country and the Séoune valley, this old 19th century farmhouse is located in the heart of the century, entirely renovated in stone, will seduce you by its tranquility and its view. Totally independent, the fonds de Fouyssac gîte of 112m² and on one level, includes a large living room with equipped kitchen, a living room with dining and sitting area, 3 bedrooms (1 bed 160, 1 bed 140, 2 beds 90), a bathroom communicating between 2 bedrooms (shower), an additional shower room and separate toilet. Outside, open garden of 1 ha, terrace and garden furniture, shady corners, wash house, meadows, car park, farm buildings. To see, Bastides and picturesque villages (Puymirol, Beauville, Montjoi, Auvillar, Moissac, Lauzerte ...) hiking / mountain biking nearby (P.R, Clunisian path), petanque ...

Fishing gite. South West, character house with old-time charm, typical of Garonne Plain, located right by Tarn-et-Garonne and Midi-Pyrenees, near Voie Verte du Canal (green bike path along the canal) and River Garonne.

In the heart of the medieval village of Saint-Maurin, in the Pays de Serres region, Le Clos Saint Maurin is housed in a restored 1805 residence near Agen. Surrounded by half-timbered houses, the market hall, and the ruins of the Benedictine abbey, this bed-and-breakfast accommodates up to eleven guests. It offers five rooms, each with its own distinct atmosphere: La Caducée, converted from the former doctor’s office; La Green; L’Adagio; Clair de Lune; and La Récréation. Four rooms feature a 160 x 200 cm bed; Clair de Lune, designed for three people, includes a round bed measuring 200 x 200 cm. The rooms are equipped with a television. A large lounge reserved for guests completes the floor. Outside, the 2.5-hectare estate opens onto a wooded, shaded park, perfect for strolling and relaxing. The pool lets you enjoy sunny days in the tranquility of the valley through which the Escorneb?uf R