Camping de la Raviège

It’s all about the hiking and biking in the untamed Midi-Pyrénées foothills; get the kids going on easy trails like the circular Tourbière de Canroute (20 minutes’ drive) and the Sentier de l’enfant sauvage, a woodland sculpture trail. Cycle up to the hilly viewpoint at Vue Panoramique de Fontfroide or around the water’s edge to the dam at Barrage Ruisseau d’Issalès (all half an hour). The Tarn has more than its fair share of historic villages like Anglès (10 minutes), once fortified and with meandering alleys leading uphill through an imposing medieval gateway. Another lovely spot is riverside Brassac (20 minutes) with a majestic château to nose around and terrace cafés for leisurely lunches. Tour Le Presbytère de Tastavy (25 minutes) to see the colourful frescoes in the church choir, or learn about the local spinning industry with demonstrations at the Musée de la Filature. You can stock up on gourmet souvenirs after having a wander around ancient stone houses and barns at Maison de Payrac (both half an hour).