Autumn stroll in Montech and its forest

Just 15 km from Montauban, the Agre state forest , also known as the Montech forest, is considered the green lung of the Tarn-et-Garonne region. In autumn, the forest is ablaze with color ! It's the perfect time to discover it, or rediscover it, and spend a moment immersed in nature, stepping outside of time. Take the opportunity to visit the charming town of Montech and admire the boats moored in its harbor.

Montech: from the canal to the forest

In the streets of Montech you will find pretty houses made of raw or fired bricks which give a warm tone to the town.

The 14th and 15th-century Church of Our Lady of the Visitation, a listed historical monument, is an absolute must-see. It is distinguished by its 46-meter- high Toulouse-style bell tower. Not far from the church, you can see and even enter a charming bandstand.

Just a 5-minute walk from the town center, you'll find the Montech marina, located on the Garonne Lateral Canal. It's a charming little port where you can stroll or cycle along the canal. Montech is situated at the junction of the Garonne Lateral Canal and the Montech Canal, which leads to Montauban.

If you appreciate good food, don't miss "Le Bistrot Constant." This restaurant is located on the port, offering a beautiful view of the canal and boats while you dine. A former lock keeper's house, it has been transformed into a welcoming space, bathed in light thanks to its large bay windows. This establishment is renowned throughout the Tarn-et-Garonne region, thanks in particular to its chef, Christophe Marque, who honed his skills under renowned chefs such as Christian Constant and Jean-Marie Gautier. It's a delightful experience that remains very affordable.

The water slope, a remarkable and unique site

The water slope is a major element of Montech 's river heritage. This experimental structure, put into service in 1974, allowed boats to overcome a difference in elevation of 13 meters in a single maneuver, avoiding the need to pass through five locks.

Closed to navigation in 2009, it has since undergone a true transformation: the site is now the 2nd most visited tourist attraction in the department. Access to the Machine and its barge is free, with guided tours offered every 15 minutes during the season, followed by free access to the immersive exhibition space aboard the Altaïr barge.

The Agre state forest, a return to nature

The Montech forest covers 1474 hectares and provides a wonderful environment for a wide variety of animals: deer, wild boar, squirrels, birds … If you are discreet enough, you will surely be able to observe some!

This teardrop-shaped forest is made up of peaceful, freely accessible trails, perfect for mountain biking. A main path runs through it, which can serve as a landmark to help you stay on track. The ride is very pleasant, except at the beginning where you can hear the noise of the nearby highway, but this is quickly drowned out by the forest as you continue.

And don't forget to keep your eyes wide open, because at any moment a squirrel might cross in front of your feet!

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