Pastel de La Serre The only site in Europe that immerses you in the world of blue in the heart of the Tarn

Pastel de la Serre, the only site in Europe that immerses you in the world of blue in the heart of the Tarn

A visit to Pastel de la Serre is unique and so exciting that you don't see time passing once you've set foot inside.

Located in Cambounet-sur-le-Sor, 20 minutes from Castres, the Berthoumieux family of Limairac, and in particular Bruno and Régine, welcome you to Pastel de la Serre to introduce you to a local and ancestral craft : the art of working with pastel blue plant-based dyes. Prepare to experience an unforgettable moment in the Tarn region !

Pastel de la Serre, an artisanal and ancestral heritage from the Pays de Cocagne

The blue gold of Occitanie, that is the term that perfectly defines this precious color obtained from pastel, an indigo-bearing plant.

For more than 2 centuries, 5 generations have passed down the love of blue, a passion for a historical heritage that is embellished with the years through meticulous, and always respectful work.

At Pastel de la Serre, the entire production chain is controlled, from cultivation to dyeing, using natural methods and no chemicals to obtain an exceptional blue pigment in an eco-responsible way. This plant-based dye, renowned for its quality, comes from the sap of the leaves in the first year, while in the second year, the flower allows for the planting of new seeds. To dye 10 kg of fabric, 1 kg of pigment is needed, which is equivalent to 1 ton of leaves… Imagine the patience and delicate work involved !

Pastel de la Serre, a unique and colourful visit near Castres or Lavaur

Become the master pastel artist for the day alongside Bruno and Régine, two Pastel enthusiasts who open the doors to their world at the heart of Pastel.

To begin, head to the Château des Plantes to meet the famous Isatis tinctoria plant and admire its magnificent, colorful fields from April to June, before witnessing the incredible transformation of the plant into pigment at the indigo factory. The extracted blue dye is used to color textiles, a process presented by Bruno, who gives a live demonstration in the workshop. Dip your hands into the woad vats to dye a T-shirt, scarf, or any fabric of your choice yourself. You can leave with this wonderful souvenir and visit the shop to find your colorful clothes and accessories… in blue, of course! Whether in a group, a small gathering, with family, or with friends, what a pleasure it is to discover the richness of the Tarn region and the heritage of the Pays de Cocagne.

Pastel de la Serre also offers 100% natural cosmetics whose dermatological benefits have been recognized since ancient times (see the properties of pastel oil on the internet).

Transmission, artisanal know-how and ancestral tradition, Pastel de la Serre takes you on a timeless journey, and reveals the secrets of Pastel.