There is plenty to discover around Najac, and much of it is within half an hour's drive. A little further, Albi and Cahors are well worth the trip too. Here are seven day trips from Les Gardes, from nearest to furthest.
Close by, or half an hour away
Laguépie · about 15 min
A simple village on the water, where the Aveyron and the Viaur meet. Above the river stand the ruins of the castle of Saint-Martin-Laguépie. In July and August there is a small supervised beach for swimming, right in the village.
Our tip: the market, on Wednesday and Sunday mornings.
Villefranche-de-Rouergue · about 25 min
A small medieval town built around a large arcaded square. It was founded by the same man who had the fortress of Najac built.
Our tip: go on a Thursday morning, when the big market fills the square and the surrounding streets.
Cordes-sur-Ciel · about 30 min
A medieval town on a hilltop, with steep lanes and beautiful old façades.
Our tip: park at the bottom and explore the old town on foot, in good shoes. And try the croquants, a crunchy almond biscuit.
Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val · about 30–35 min
A lively village by the river, in the heart of the Aveyron gorges. It is home to one of the oldest town halls in France. All around, you can walk, cycle and canoe.
Our tip: go on a Sunday morning, market day.
For a day out
Albi · about 50 min
For a day in town: the episcopal city of Albi, built entirely of red brick, on the River Tarn. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010. Visit Sainte-Cécile cathedral, the Old Bridge and the bishops' palace, home to the Toulouse-Lautrec museum.
Saint-Cirq-Lapopie · about 55 min
A village perched high on a rock above the River Lot. Narrow lanes, old houses and a superb view. Below the village, a path follows the river, partly carved into the rock.
Cahors · about 1 h 10
Set in a loop of the River Lot, Cahors has a lively old centre around Saint-Étienne cathedral. Its Pont Valentré, with its medieval towers, is UNESCO-listed. The town is also known for its wine.
Our tip: the market, on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, on the cathedral square.
A new village each day, the fortress each evening
Les Gardes sits on the hill facing Najac. Explore a different village each day and come back in the evening to the terrace and the view of Najac and its fortress. Before you set off, read what not to miss in Najac itself.
Frequently asked questions
When is the market in Villefranche-de-Rouergue?
On Thursday mornings.
When is the market in Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val?
On Sunday mornings.
When is the market in Cahors?
On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, on the cathedral square.
What is the best way to visit Cordes-sur-Ciel?
Park at the bottom and explore the old town on foot. The lanes are steep.
Which villages are among the most beautiful villages in France?
Of these day trips: Cordes-sur-Ciel and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. Najac itself is one too.
Published 23 September 2026 · Information checked on 23 September 2026. Driving times are approximate, by car from Les Gardes.
