Moissac

Do

thumb|Pigeon loft (pigeonnier) of Milliole, a historic monument Visit the cloister, as it is thought to be one of the most beautiful cloisters in the world. Sit on the square, with a view of the Abbey, enjoying a coffee while the world passes by. Try some Chasselas, the local grape, which has its own AOC (appelation d'origine controle). It's small and sweet, and is regarded as a French Treasure. Explore the back streets of the town where many mediaeval, half-timbered houses can be seen, some in a rather sad state of disrepair. If you admire 1930s architecture then you are in for a treat. Much of the town was destroyed in a flood in the 30s and was rebuilt in Art Deco and Modernist style. Hire a bicycle from a kiosk on the banks of the River Tarn. Cycle along the sides of the Tarn or the canal to the next town, very flat easy cycling. The tourist office sells books of walks in the local area. Some on level ground others take you high above the town for spectacular views.

Buy

The local market (Saturday & Sunday) sells lots of locally grown fruit, veg and other produce. It is very common to see a local producer selling his/her own produce in the market from a tressle table. Maybe eggs, cheese or strawberries. Once their stock has been sold they pack up and go home. Cheap clothing, house wares and other items are also sold in the market. The region specialises in fois gras and other foods originating from duck and goose. The indoor market sells an excellent selection of artisan-made meat and seafood dishes as well as hot food, wine, dairy produce and bread. Try the home-made paella or couscous, both are excellent.

Eat

Moissac region produces the Chasselas de Moissac AOC, a very tasty, golden grape. The region also produces foie gras. Agen is the centre of the prune industry in France and 'Prunes d'Agen' can be seen in many retail outlets but the best by far are those sold in the local markets. Moissac has its own producers of high quality prunes.

Lou Grill, a family-run restaurant, where the food is cooked over an oak fire. Bernard and Marese, welcome you warmly, and serve good food with a smile. Hotel Luxembourg, a small hotel offering home cooked regional foods. Various set menus are on offer as well as à la carte.

Drink

Moissac is, unfortunately, one of the few areas of France that does not produce its own wine. Instead, the local grape (see above) is a dessert eating grape.

Sleep

thumb Ultreia Moissac, Chambre D'Hotes and Gite d'etape /Hostel, directly on the ancient pilgrimage route of Saint Jacques (the GR65), beside the train station.

Go next

Moissac is set very nicely on the River Tarn, quite near to its confluence with the Garonne. Hire a launch and go for a day's sailing on the Canal de Deux Mers ("The canal between two seas" - from the Med to the Atlantic) or just walk or cycle along its banks. Visit nearby Castelsarrasin on a Thursday, market day or Valence D'Agen whose market day is Tuesday. Both markets have their own special character very different from that of Moissac's own market. Nearby Lafrançaise has a Vallée des loisirs - a small nature park with a very inviting modern swimming pool.