Moissac: from water, to stone and up to the sky!

Moissac is known for its cloister, one of the most beautiful and oldest in the world, for its medieval abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for its remarkable Chasselas wine. But don't stop there! Let me guide you through Moissac on an unforgettable journey from water to stone and up to the sky!

Moissac, a City of Water on the banks of the Tarn

Moissac is crossed by the Tarn and the Canal des Deux Mers.

The discovery begins on the banks of the Tarn River, at the foot of the Moissac Mill, which is now a superb hotel, restaurant, and wellness center. If you arrive by car, there is a large parking lot. From there, you won't need a car anymore: make the most of this stage of the Way of St. James !

Take the time to stroll along the Tarn River in the shade of the poplar trees towards the Uvarium esplanade. You're probably wondering what an Uvarium is? From the Latin word uva (meaning grape ), an Uvarium was a place where people tasted wines and grapes. In Moissac, this Art Deco kiosk was built in the 1930s for spa-goers who wanted to follow grape mono-diets (Chasselas grapes, of course...).

Today it houses a restaurant, so feel free to go inside to admire the superb frescoes in praise of Chasselas and why not take the opportunity to taste some local cuisine made with local products.

If you want to stay on the water you can also visit Moissac with the Compagnie des Bateaux Carles for a discovery trip on the Garonne lateral canal or a lunch cruise on the Tarn river.

The artists and creators of Moissac

Welcome to the street of arts

Now go and stroll along Rue Jean Moura, also known as Rue des Arts, and rightly so, because it is home to talented artists: painters, glassblowers, mosaic artists, jewelry designers…

I was fascinated watching Caroline Bufkens and Laurent Magouyres ( glassblowers ) create a superb glass owl right before my eyes! With 24 years of experience, this duo's work reflects their passion for color and material.

I also spent a lot of time hesitating between several earrings in the boutique of jewelry designer Gabrielle Noby… As a woman, you can't change your nature!

In the handmade jewelry shop

Heritage and History Walk in Moissac

Once you have crossed Place des Récollets, take Rue de la République - not too fast! because there are still some superb shops and it is even recommended to stop for a glass of fresh Chasselas juice on a terrace (that's a Moissac native telling you this!).

Republic Street

At the end of this street, the majestic Saint-Pierre Abbey appears.

It is essential to admire its monumental tympanum representing the Apocalypse according to Saint John, and to visit the cloister and its 76 capitals.

In the Cloister of Moissac

It is advisable to make this visit at the end of the day to appreciate the tranquility and beauty of this magical place (the early afternoon is often very busy).

The viewpoint at the very top of Moissac

You can end your day in style by climbing the hillside to the Calvary viewpoint, because Moissac is also best admired from above! It's not really an "ordeal" as the climb only takes 10 minutes on foot, so you can take the opportunity to work your inner thighs! For the luckiest, it's possible to catch a glimpse of the Pyrenees mountain range on certain days…

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Article written by Fannie Lefever for the Tarn Aveyron Guide