The Tarn region’s festive atmosphere is brought to life by its magical Christmas markets, perfect for discovering local crafts, gastronomy and festive activities. Here’s a guide to the main Christmas markets near Peyrole and Brens, between Albi and Toulouse, to brighten up your stay at Les Cottages du Tarn.

Gaillac Christmas Market: Tradition and enchantment

The Gaillac Christmas market is a must-see, renowned for its magic and diversity. Set up on the Place de la Libération, it runs from December 6 to 24, 2024. You’ll find 24 chalets selling handcrafted creations, local specialities and much more.

• Entertainment for young and old: A 25-metre toboggan run, an electric train and live music enliven the market throughout the season.
• Christmas Bodega: Under a star-spangled tent, enjoy traditional brazier dishes, seafood and mulled wine. Weekend concerts add an extra festive touch.
• Magical moments for children: Creative workshops, meetings with Santa, balloon sculptures and face painting.

Opening hours:

• Weekdays excluding vacations: 2pm-9pm (Bodega 6pm-10pm).
• Weekends and vacations: 10am-9pm (Bodega 6pm-10pm).

Lisle-sur-Tarn: a Christmas market with intimate charm

Just a few kilometers from Les Cottages du Tarn, the Lisle-sur-Tarn Christmas market, to be held from December 13 to 18, 2024, stands out for its warm, friendly atmosphere. Located on the Place Paul Saissac, this Christmas village showcases local talent and flavors, all in a festive, fairytale atmosphere.

Highlights not to be missed:

• Arts and crafts: Discover fascinating demonstrations of ceramics, pottery and embroidery. These unique creations are ideal for personalized, meaningful gifts.
• Horse-drawn carriage rides: Perfect for families, these rides offer a magical experience to discover the village decorated under the twinkling lights.
• Local gastronomy: Stalls overflowing with typical products, including honey, homemade jams, hot chestnuts and, of course, the unmissable Gaillac wines. There’s even a stand selling Aveyron specialities such as aligot, for a gourmet break.

In addition, a wide range of events punctuate each day: concerts, creative workshops for children, and live shows for the whole family.

Opening times :

• Friday, Monday and Tuesday: 6pm to 10pm.
• Saturday: 10am to 11:59pm.
• Sunday and Wednesday: 10am to 10pm.

With its illuminations, gourmet chalets and quality crafts, this Christmas market embodies the spirit of the season in an intimate, authentic atmosphere.

Markets to discover around Les Cottages du Tarn

Albi: A magical atmosphere at the foot of the cathedral

Just 30 minutes from the cottages, Albi boasts one of the department’s biggest Christmas markets, on the Place du Vigan. With its 60 chalets, this market offers a wide choice of gifts and delicacies.

Highlights :

• An outdoor skating rink for slide fans.
• An illuminated Ferris wheel offering a spectacular view of the town and Sainte-Cécile Cathedral.

Albi’s emblematic architecture, combined with the Christmas lights, offers an enchanting setting for your outings.

Graulhet: a warm and friendly Christmas market

Just 10 minutes from Les Cottages du Tarn, Graulhet offers an intimate but equally charming Christmas market. Set up in the central square, this market showcases artisanal and local products in a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

Highlights:

• A market on a human scale, ideal for a family outing.
• Local craft stands, including unique Christmas decorations and handmade creations.
• Local produce, including culinary specialties such as foie gras, honey and Tarn wines.

The Graulhet market, with its friendly atmosphere and lively entertainment, is the perfect destination to experience the magic of Christmas on a human scale.

Castres: A colorful Christmas

The Castres Christmas market stands out for its size and dynamism. With over 60 chalets and a Ferris wheel, it attracts visitors from all over the region every year.

Market highlights :

• A merry-go-round and daily entertainment for youngsters.
• Stalls showcasing artisans from all over the Occitanie region.
• An enchanting decor with illuminations worthy of the great European festivals.

Cordes-sur-Ciel: A medieval Christmas

Cordes-sur-Ciel, often considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, is transformed into a magical place for Christmas. The market is staged in a medieval setting, with historical themes and immersive entertainment.

Special features:

• Medieval crafts demonstrations.
• Traditional music concerts.
• A unique atmosphere thanks to cobbled streets and illuminated stone houses.

A stay between markets and serenity

Staying at Les Cottages du Tarn during the Christmas markets is the perfect blend of festivities and relaxation. Ideally located close to the markets in Gaillac, Lisle-sur-Tarn and Graulhet, our cottages let you live the Christmas spirit to the full, while enjoying the peace and quiet of the Tarn countryside.

Christmas markets, a unique experience to share

Whether you’re looking for gift ideas, family fun or just a festive stroll, the Christmas markets around Les Cottages du Tarn have something for everyone. Plan your stay now for a memorable experience at the heart of the magic of Christmas in the Tarn.

Our cottages in Brens, with their shared sauna, and those in Peyrole, one of which is equipped with a Jacuzzi Bain Nordique, are available to book for this magical period. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a stay with family or friends, we guarantee a warm and comfortable setting, perfect for recharging your batteries after a day of exploring.

Don’t wait any longer to organize your stay and discover the treasures of the Tarn in all their festive finery!

Martial et Cathy
We look forward to welcoming you
Les Cottages du Tarn