La Cresse lies at the entrance to the Gorges du Tarn. Several attractions come together here for a stay: walks by the river, nature activities on the Causse, churches with their own architectural history, and local produce. You can choose what to focus on depending on whether you prefer to walk along the Tarn, explore trails in nature or learn about the history of the churches.
Location and directions
La Cresse is about a 15-minute drive from Millau, heading towards the Gorges du Tarn. The village can be reached via the RD 809, RD 907 and RD 512. At the junction by La Cresse church, the “Gorges et Causses” route continues straight ahead on the D187 towards Peyreleau.
Churches and architectural history
The former Saint-Martin church in the hamlet of Pinet is listed as a historic monument. Saint-Martin-du-Pinet church lies upstream from La Cresse, opposite Château de Peyrelade. It is partly Romanesque: some parts date from the 12th century, and the church was altered in the 15th century. Its architectural history therefore spans several periods rather than a single date of construction.
Saint-Baudile offers a different point of reference in time. The church was built in 1888, and its bell tower was inspired by Breton Kreisker-style models. It also houses a historic bell cast in 1624. The contrast in dates is striking: the bell is older than the church building in which it is housed.
The Tarn, the Causse and Trail No. 06
The banks of the Tarn at La Cresse are ideal for walks. The Causse near La Cresse offers opportunities to explore nature on foot, by bike or on horseback. The options therefore differ both in terms of landscape and how you get around: walks follow the river, while activities on the Causse also include cycling and horse riding.
Trail No. 06 – La Cresse follows paths through cherry orchards to the hamlet of Caylus, with its remarkable buildings and impressive views. Trail No. 06 – La Cresse also includes a technical singletrack through the woods to the Ravin de Font Auzal.
Horse riding and farm produce
Centre Equestre Le Sonnac offers horseback rides on the Causse Noir. Pony rides are available for children under ten, who must be accompanied by their parents. Activities at the equestrian centre are available by advance reservation only. So if you plan to take part in the riding activities, book in advance.
Ferme Auberge de La Tindelle is located in Puech Margue, La Cresse. The restaurant operates seasonally and offers tastings of produce from its own farm, including asparagus and lamb. The farm produces cherries in the Tarn Valley, as well as sheep for meat and asparagus on the Causse. If you are planning to eat here, bear in mind that the restaurant operates seasonally.
Discover more destinations: Sébrazac, Rieupeyroux, Montézic, Saint-Laurent-D'olt, Saint-Sernin-Sur-Rance, Saint-Geniez-D'olt, Naussac, Gabriac.
For the main travel guide: Aveyron.
