TOULOUSE À L’AUBE DU SOIR (JOURNÉES DU PATRIMOINE)

From Port Viguerie to Port de la Daurade, via the Pont St Pierre, this one-hour panoramic tour immerses you in an iconic moment of Toulouse life: twilight…

The Garonne, the city’s cradle, is ever-changing; people are wary of it, yet it is navigable from the Pyrenees to the Atlantic. Start on the left bank, which is more dangerous as it is prone to flooding. The guide paints a picture of the neighbourhood’s atmosphere, with its hospitals and traditional trades. Then, at the foot of the Ferris wheel, take in a sweeping view of the right bank. Before you, the Daurade district stretches out over a 180° panorama, with its tree-lined harbour and quays flanked by plane trees.

Next, capture the cinematic views where the sky and the river merge… Cross the St Pierre Bridge to let your gaze drift over the mirror-like water. This bridge has been rebuilt several times, as the Garonne – which appears calm – proves indomitable when its waters run wild. During the flood of 1875, for instance, the water rose to a height of 9 metres 50…

Finally, follow the right bank along Quai Lombard, where the classical 18th-century façades accompany you with their elegant perspective. The grand finale? Enjoy the banks of the Daurade and take a closer look at the first night-time illuminations of the Pont Neuf and the Hôtel-Dieu!

As the sun sets, a new aura descends upon the city; become part of this precious moment by discovering the hidden stories behind the history…