THE TARN GORGES ROAD

Started in 1891, completed in 1905, the road of the Gorges du Tarn remains the object of constant care. Named D907B and linking Sainte-Enimie to Le Rozier, it owes much to the will of E.-A. Martel, combined with the efforts of Jean Monastier, then minister, who had its financing adopted. As for the workforce, it came from local people who had seen their vineyards ruined by phylloxera shortly before. As soon as it was finished, it had to be widened to allow cars to pass through and the operation has already been renewed to accommodate buses and many visitors who come to appreciate the beauty of the gorges in their motor homes. Bordered by low limestone walls and punctuated by numerous tunnels, the road is now widely used by motorists, especially in the summer period when one finds the pleasure of driving quietly with one's nose in the air. The road is also appreciated by cyclists, but is not suitable on busy days due to its narrowness and numerous curves that obstruct visibility. All along the route, which stretches sometimes overhanging the river, sometimes close to the river banks, you will discover many villages that have kept their authenticity (Sainte-Enimie, La Malène, Saint-Chély du Tarn...). Mills, castles and churches are also very present, testifying of a formerly very active life on this enclosed road, which seems corseted between the rocks.