Discover the Gorges du Tarn with a guided day trip. Enjoy boat rides, scenic views, and historical sites. Book your adventure now!
- Mende - We will depart from Mende, starting at Place du Forail. Mende, the smallest prefecture town in France, is vibrant and boasts a well-preserved historic center, making it a worthwhile stop. We’ll then travel through the Causses de Sauveterre and Méjean to reach our first destination, enjoying stunning panoramas throughout the hour-long drive.
- Aven Armand - The journey to the Aven Armand cave via the Causse de Sauveterre will take about 45 minutes to an hour. We’ll be there for the first funicular descent, taking you 110 meters underground for a one-hour guided tour through a forest of stalagmites, led by experienced guides from Aven Armand. The tour features sound and light displays that highlight the numerous stalagmites, and includes some steps. We’ll also visit the natural well that the cave’s discoverer bravely descended.
- La Ferme Caussenarde d’Autrefois - This self-guided tour lets you step back in time to when the seasons dictated life. You’ll have access to the farmhouse and exhibition space, which includes old machines and photographs. In the village of Hyelzas, where the farm is located, you can purchase lunch from local producers. At the Fédou cheese dairy, you can buy a picnic, as well as cold cuts and artisanal ice creams. We’ll spend two hours here, giving you time to explore the farm and enjoy lunch at your own pace.
- The Boatmen of the Gorges du Tarn - From Hyelzas, we’ll take a scenic narrow road with hairpin turns, offering magnificent views. In the village of La Malène, we’ll meet the boatmen who have been navigating the Tarn for 150 years. You’ll embark on a one-hour boat trip through the Tarn gorges with a knowledgeable boatman. At the end of the trip, your driver-guide will be waiting to take you to the next destination, so you won’t need to return to La Malène.
- Point Sublime - Point Sublime offers a unique and breathtaking view of the Cirque des Baumes, perfect for a memorable photo. From the bottom of the gorge, we’ll head to the small village of Les Vignes, then take a mountain road to Point Sublime. We’ll follow the edge of the causse to reach Sainte Enimie.
- Sainte-Enimie - Sainte-Enimie is a medieval village recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Wandering through its narrow streets, you’ll understand why. The village’s history comes alive with a visit to the Burle spring, whose miraculous water led to the village’s founding. You’ll have free time to explore the village’s narrow streets or relax at one of the many terraces. We’ll then return to Mende via the Causse de Sauveterre, a 30 to 40-minute drive.
- Mende - We’ll return to Mende from Sainte-Enimie, a 30-minute drive via the Causse de Sauveterre, passing the fortified farm of Choizal and descending into the Lot valley where Mende and its cathedral are nestled.
- Bottled water
- Lunch
The best excursion to discover the Gorges du Tarn in complete tranquility, leaving the driving and logistics to your driver-guide. Commented discovery day (8 a.m.-6:30 p.m., English/French) of this territory listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. This day includes 5 essential visits. Take advantage of a guided tour of Aven Armand to see this geological treasure. Go back in time at the Ferme Caussenarde d’Autreviens, and free time in the village of Hyelzas (local products for purchase: cheese, cold meats, artisanal ice cream) for lunch (not included). From La Malène, go down the river in a boat helmed by a skipper with the Bateliers des Gorges. Your driver-guide will be waiting for you at the arrival of the descent to head directly towards the Point Sublime from where the view of the Cirque des Baumes is absolutely beautiful. Finally, discovery of Sainte-Enimie, classified among the most beautiful villages in France, before returning to Mende around 6:30 p.m.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
