Via Tolosana, a route to Santiago de Compostela that crosses the Tarn

The Via Tolosana is a Latin name meaning "the way of Toulouse", one of the 4 paths of Santiago de Compostela also known as the "Way of Arles". Starting from Arles, it crosses 3 regions and 8 departments including the Tarn, before arriving at the Col du Somport on the Spanish border. Prepare your calves, the Way of Arles stretches over 1,635 km, of which only a hundred are in the Tarn.

Via Tolosana, unmissable stops in the Tarn

The Ways of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle are renowned for welcoming thousands of hikers and pilgrims each year. Rejuvenation, spirituality, the need to escape or refocus on oneself, the reasons are varied but the pleasure remains the same, that of crisscrossing the south of France on foot on the ancient Roman roads and medieval paths.

Murat-sur-Vebre

This small, authentic village is the starting point of the Arles Way in the Tarn, located on the banks of the Vèbre River. The town of Murat, which is also the centre of the village, is lovely to explore on foot, not forgetting the megalith museum, the Saint-Étienne church or the many marked hiking trails.

La Salvetat-sur-Agout 22 km further

A small obligatory detour through Hérault if you follow the Via Tolosana, here you are in La Salvetat-sur-Agout, a 100% nature destination with its 4 magnificent lakes and lush vegetation. Put down your bag for a refreshing break appreciated by pilgrims and open your eyes wide, mouflons could be curious!

Angles 20 km further

In the heart of the Haut Languedoc Natural Park, Anglès du Tarn is renowned for the beauty of its landscapes and its green forests which are ideal for walking. This small village in the calm of nature is ideal for resting your feet after a few days of walking on the paths of Santiago de Compostela. Take the opportunity to observe the remains of the surrounding wall and its gates, as well as the ^19th century Saint-Pierre church.

Boissezon 21 km further

In the heart of a green environment on the banks of the Durenque, a tributary of the Agout, Boissezon is a peaceful stopover on the Voie d'Arles. Even if the streets are pleasant to wander through with small shops, the village is better known for the Tour de Boissezon de Masviel, located in Murat-sur-Vèbre.

Castres 15 km further

After many days of walking on the Tolosana Way, you have arrived at the birthplace of Jean Jaurès: Castres . Crossed by the Agout, this colorful and dynamic city is an unmissable stop on the Arles Way. The Houses on the Agout built in the ^17th century surprise with their pastel colors, former homes of dyers, tanners and weavers. Further on, it is the Bishop's Garden designed "à la française" which dazzles you with its boxwood embroidery, welcoming in the heart of this green setting the Goya Museum dedicated to Hispanic art. And if you still have energy, go and cheer on a rugby match!

Viviers-lès-Montagnes 11km further on

This small village, well known to pilgrims, is a must for history lovers. Indeed, Viviers-lès-Montagnes still boasts many relics of the past, including the Château de Viviers, the presbytery, the church of Saint-Martin and its chapel, and a dovecote - buildings that date back to the 12th century. The heritage circuit invites you to discover all the subtleties of this pretty town surrounded by nature and greenery, ideal for resting after a long walk. Got some energy left? Take the Heron Trail, an 8-hour hike that takes in a wide variety of landscapes, or enjoy the friendly atmosphere of this village, which has been awarded the “ville et village où il fait bon vivre” and “bourg center Occitanie” labels.

Dourgne 22 km further

You will love this last stage of the Arles Way in the Tarn. At the foot of the Montagne Noire, this charming village offers a privileged setting to relax and enjoy the calm of nature. Tour Dourgne to admire the 2 Benedictine abbeys that welcome many pilgrims each year, before climbing up to Capelette to discover the small perched chapel. On the way back, take the time to stroll along the Taurou stream or fish with your feet in the water.

Sorèze 7 km further on

Here you are on the last stage of the Via Tolosana, which takes you to the charming village of Sorèze, a Commune Halte on the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela. At the foot of the Montagne Noire, the village boasts a wealth of cultural treasures to be discovered along its picturesque medieval streets, as well as on the village tour. Admire the Notre-Dame-de-la-Paix church, with its organ listed as a historic monument, or the Saint-Martin bell tower, which can even be visited by appointment.

The Tarn section of the Via Tolosana is now complete, but you can continue your pilgrimage in Haute-Garonne with Revel as the next stop 20 km away.

The paths of Santiago de Compostela in the Tarn, some practical information

A getaway on the trails of Compostela is not a hike to be taken lightly. The Via Tolosana in particular is a fairly physical path, since long distances on foot separate each stage before resting. Do not hesitate to take long walks in preparation for your departure to prepare your muscles and tendons for the future efforts of a long walk. The ideal and recommended period to take the Way of Arles is between May and October to appreciate the beauty of the landscapes with pleasant weather conditions. It's decided, are you going on the Via Tolosana? Here are some last-minute tips to accompany you on your pilgrimage:

• Opt for a lightweight backpack and plan for the bare minimum. You may be able to dry some clothes on your back during the day if it is sunny. ( little tip: bring clothes pegs to hang your socks )
• Put on good hiking shoes that support your ankles and grip the ground well to prevent slipping. If they are waterproof and lightweight, that's even better!
• Forget about big and bulky picnics and opt for dried fruits, fresh fruits and cereal bars, without forgetting the bottle of water to hydrate yourself. The pilgrimage is a walk apart where the search for spirituality overshadows the need to eat.
• Prepare a small first aid kit with what you need to treat minor wounds or temporary ailments.
• Take your credenciel, the pilgrims' book which will be stamped at each of your stops.
• Organize your pilgrimage and book your stops in advance. Cities labeled “Halt Compostelle” and accommodation reserved for pilgrims welcome you all along the way.

You are now ready to travel the Tarn on the Way of Arles! Don't forget, if you are feeling down or want to share your feelings on the route, there are pilgrim associations and Facebook groups to help you feel less alone on the paths of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle.

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