The medieval heart of Tarascon stretches along the right bank of the Ariège below the Castella tower. Narrow lanes wind between stone houses with overhanging upper storeys, leading to the Place Garrigou and the church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Daurade with its octagonal tower.
The bridges and quays make for an easy evening stroll. From the river you can look up at the Castella on one side and the green ridges of the Pyrenees on the other — a reminder of why this small town has been strategically placed since prehistory.