The Sentier Randonnée du Patrimoine was created to introduce hikers to the villages and hamlets of Aiguefonde and highlight remarkable local heritage sites.
Those choosing Aiguefonde as a destination can search specifically for a holiday apartment to rent.
Trails and Heritage
The hiking and walking trails in and around Aiguefonde include the Sentier des Métairies d’Aiguefonde, La Grande Boucle de Montaud and the Sentier Randonnée du Patrimoine. The latter is a 13 km circular trail; its duration is given as 3 hours and 30 minutes, and access is free. Heritage sites to discover along the way include the Grotte de Lacalm and the Protestant Temple of Calmon, among others. A variant of the Sentier des Métairies d’Aiguefonde provides access to the Dolmen de la Récuquelle, also known as “Peyra Estampa”. The Sentier des Métairies d’Aiguefonde passes through chestnut scrub; some of the trees described there are grafted with the local “dauphine d’Aiguefonde” variety. It also passes the former Courbas farm, which is regarded as evidence of local history.
Buildings and History
The Grotte de Lacalm served as a burial site from 2,500 to 1,800 BC. The Église Sainte Claire has a large nave, two side chapels and choir windows depicting the life of Saint Clare in non-chronological order. The Temple de Calmon was built in 1831, after relations between Catholics and Protestants had calmed. The Moulin d’En Béral dates from the 15th century and had four millstones powered by water.
Landscape and Local Produce
The grounds of the Château d’Aiguefonde cover 3 hectares and combine a French garden with a landscape park; they are privately owned. The Château d’Aiguefonde is also privately owned and can only be viewed from the outside.
The cooperatively run GAEC La Rive Paysanne farm in Aiguefonde sells bread, honey, vegetables and lamb directly from the farm; it is also present at the Mazamet market on Saturday mornings.
