Le Puy Camino – via Podiensis: Saint Martin to Moissac

April 26, 2023

We had 16 kilometers of walking to look forward to on this rather cloudy, drippy day. In my journal notes for today, I wrote that it was a “nice walking day – not too wet.” My recollection is that it did not really rain during our trek but everything was coated in raindrops.

We passed acres of vineyards and orchards along the way – everything leafing out and looking super green! Nice countryside!

Along the GR 65, there are regular trail markers – most are very simple with the white and red stripes painted on trees, fenceposts or rocks. Every now and then, someone gets a tad more creative. Love the wayfinder below!

As we were walking, we noticed a sign up ahead and had some fun at this resting place for pilgrims.

I always enjoy it when I come upon an interpretive sign that explains the landscape we are experiencing. It also gives me a chance to practice my French reading skills. Thank goodness for Google Translate! The sign below “Windows on the Tarn” describes the view we see into the alluvial plain carved out by the River Tarn. It describes the modern landscape of fruit trees and the culture of market gardening that exists along the banks of the Tarn.

Once we got to Moissac, we decided to find our gîte and drop our bags. There was much to explore in Moissac unencumbered by our packs. As it turns out, the Gîte La Petite Lumiere sits high above the city and it was a very steep climb to reach the humble abode! But, oh the view!

We paid 38 euros each for the accommodation that included dinner and breakfast. We had a small dorm room but the other beds were empty so we had the room to ourselves. The other guests chose to pitch a tent in the yard as it is a cheaper option.

We dropped out bags and headed back to the center of town for a bite to eat and a tour of the abbey.

We had a delicious lunch at Le Florentin restaurant!! Highly recommend! It is adjacent to the abbey making it the perfect place to eat before exploring this amazing medieval monastery and active church.

After our meal, we wandered around the Saint-Pierre Abbey and Cloister. The following are some of my favorite pictures of the Romanesque architecture and decorations of the church.

The cloister is known for its sculpted decorations that are present on the “8 pillars and 76 capitals” that surround the green. There is a detailed description of these capitals and the figures sculpted on each here.

After walking around the enclosed green space, it was time to explore the interior of the church. We were able to walk up to the upper room of the bell tower where we could look down upon the main part of the church.

For more information on the Saint-Pierre Abbey please access this link. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable place!

Back out into the square next to the church, I was struck by the bright colors of the flowers in the planters surrounding a small fountain.

We headed back up to our lodging for dinner after touring the abbey. I enjoyed Moissac and the old part of the city.

We had a nice simple meal that was prepared by our host and a couple of her friends. Totally enjoyable stay in this modest accommodation.

One of the ladies offered to take our picture as we headed off the next day – you can see the statue in the background!

Onward!