Penne is a small village in the Tarn on the circuit of the medieval bastides around Albi, in South-West France. The ruins of the former royal fortress still dominate the river Aveyron: it was a real eagle's nest, built during 12th century, in time to play a prominent role in the defence of Toulouse against the crusaders, sent by the pope and the French king to eradicate the Cathar heresy. The crusaders had to try several times, before they took the castle; six years later the count of Toulouse re-conquered Penne.
During the Hundred Years War, English troops took Penne and occupied the castle for 30 years. The castle was dismantled by the Huguenots in the Religion Wars; the stones were re-used to restore the village.
Actually, the medieval structure of the village remains, but the population of Penne has dramatically dropped; a number of houses have become holiday-homes for people from abroad. Since 2009 some works have been carried tout to fortify the rock, which had become too dangerous. The idea is to reconstruct (part of) the castle, using medieval building techniques. In summer, tourists may visit the site.
The sights are marvellous, there is a nice café with a terrace, an ideal stop for cyclists or hikers. There are a few signposted footpaths around Penne, with nice views on the Aveyron. A Long Distance Footpath, the GR46, and a Regional Footpath (GRP) pass trough Penne. The Gresigne Forest, with 3 500 ha the largest oak forest in southern France is adjacent to Penne.
In the centre of Penne only about 100 persons live permanently; it is a nice place for a break during your trip on the circuit of the bastides around Albi, or the Aveyron Canyon, but is rather remote for staying. If you would like to discover its surroundings, the bastides albigeoises, the Aveyron Canyon or the Gresigne Forest, you might check Artichaud, a charming and eco-friendly Bed and Breakfast, with great food and wines. This web site gives you more information about our guest house.
And in case you like footpath walking, be sure to read about our walking holidays too
Other bastides you might want to visit:
Text & pictures: © Bed and Breakfast Artichaud
