Country and cultural walk in Varen

Varen is an incredible medieval village located in the land of Causses and the Valley (Les Causses du Quercy Garonne) of just over 600 souls. As you walk through this ancient fortified city, learn more about its past and that of the region. The alleys are pleasant and picturesque, and some sites are steeped in centuries-old history. The proximity to the meanders of the Aveyron makes it a serene and peaceful place, where it is good to stroll and enjoy, at all times of the year. Take a seat, the visit begins!

the castle of the Deanery of Varen

This imposing building commands respect. It is called Doyenné or even Castle of the Doyenné. Its excellent state of conservation transports you directly to the end of the Middle Ages. The deanery of Varen was built at the end of the 15th century so that the dean of the Priory (the coordinating priest) there resides. Its architecture is typical of what was practiced at that time. From the first glance, one can clearly distinguish the defensive style, in particular thanks to the presence of machicolations and the rampart walk. Its tower served as a watchtower. It made it possible to see the enemy coming.

In 1979, this incredible building was bought by the municipality. Today, the Town Hall of Varen sits there.

The deanery of Varen dominates the square

The fountain and its legend

This is the charm and authenticity of the small medieval town. Popular legend has it that the pretty Madeleine met the handsome Pierre there while she was washing her clothes. The young man having worked a lot, tried to cool off, but he did not have a goblet or glass. What to do then? Madeleine joined her hands and filled them with water. In front of such beauty and such a delicate gesture, he kissed her hands. This is how each day they met at the fountain. The story does not say whether they had many children, but rather that they got married. They faced the good times and the bad together. And when the turmoil became too great, they returned to the fountain which brought them so much happiness.

The door of the Four or the Fountain

Close to the deanery and the fountain, you can see this gateway to the City. It dates from 1620 and remains the ultimate testimony to the presence of the old fortifications. This time again we can clearly see the defensive vocation of the building, thanks in particular to the loopholes. It is also the passage to the most lively and lively alley in the past.

Passing under the Porte du Four takes you back to medieval times

Picturesque and bucolic alleys

Walk through the different alleys and observe the half-timbered houses. It is a very typical architecture of the medieval period, which has crossed the ages to make the walk so pleasant in Varen.

The pretty streets and houses of Varen

Enjoy the greenery and flowers

Saint-Pierre church

Listed as Historical Monuments since 1846, this church has a very interesting past. Work began in the middle of the 11th century. The church was intended for a pilgrimage, because it had the relics (fragments of the body or clothing of a Saint) of the martyr Saint Sergius.

One of the peculiarities of the place is that it has retained some imprints of previous constructions:

• The original door of the Saint-Pierre church: You can see it under the bell tower.
• The remains of the Saint-Serge church: demolished in 1812, this old church is now a square. If you have the eye, you may see some remains along the facade of Saint-Pierre church.

Saint-Pierre church

This church is full of surprises if you know how to observe

The old mill and the banks of the Aveyron

The monks already owned a mill in medieval times. You can see one on the banks of the Aveyron which dates from the end of the 19th century. It now houses a restaurant.

It is a very beautiful place, in peace, where nature is omnipresent. It is good to stroll there or simply relax and contemplate the Aveyron which glides peacefully.

The old mill turned restaurant

Varen, unmissable sights nearby

The pretty village of Varen on the border of the Tarn and Aveyron departments is also a perfect starting point for discovering the region's riches. Have you finished your country stroll? Get ready to continue your excursion with a visit to the surrounding villages:

• Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val, 15 minutes from Varen, a magnificent craft village bustling with activity all year round.
• Cordes-sur-Ciel, 20 minutes from Varen, one of the most beautiful villages in France, with breathtaking panoramic views.
• Najac, 20 minutes from Varen, a 100% natural destination in a green setting.
• Penne, 40 minutes from Varen, a superb medieval town with a preserved castle.

Finish your tour with a visit to the sublime Abbaye de Beaulieu-en-Rouergue, 10 minutes from Varen, a 12th-century Cistercian abbey and contemporary art center set in a green setting.

The visit to the old fortified village of Varen ends, we hope you have made you want to discover it for yourself! 

Did you like our article? Find others on our Blog "Do it your way". Follow us on the Tarn Aveyron Guide Facebook page and on Instagram @guidedutarnaveyron

Article and photos prepared by Charline Prod'Homme for the Guide du Tarn Aveyron