Woad, the Occitan blue gold
between Tarn, Gers and Haute Garonne… a treasure rediscovered!
Do you know the origin of the expression ”Pays de Cocagne”?
Cocagne is a term derived from the Occitan word “cocanha” which refers to a ball of dried leaves that was made by woad farmers and sold to dye manufacturers throughout Europe. Indeed, between the 14th and 17th centuries, the woad trade made the Occitan region a fortune, in particular within the famous “Woad Golden Triangle”, located between Toulouse, Albi and Carcassonne.
But during the course of the 16th century, the importance of the leaves of Isatis Tinctoria (a small plant also called “dyer’s woad”) was overturned by tropical indigo (Indigofera tinctoria) and woad eventually fell out of use.
Today, many initiatives offer the opportunity to discover the woad route and to bring it back into use through organic farming, natural cosmetic products and the rehabilitation of historical monuments linked to the story of woad.
An inspired approach… that will inspire you! Woad, the Occitan blue gold group trip
Highlights
- An immersion into Occitan heritage with an original focus: the close link between the land, its richness and the culture of woad.
- Guided tour of the most beautiful mansions built by the woad merchants in the Golden Age.
- Various visits for an optimal discovery of the history and the use of the Blue Gold, between Tarn, Gers and Haute-Garonne.
- A fun and interesting itinerary, accessible to all.
- Accommodation in the centre of Toulouse (1 night).
Group rates
2 day / 1 night stay.
From €170 / person based on a double room.
Based on a group of 50 participants
From €200 / person based on a double room.
Based on a group of 25 participants
This price includes transport by coach (from the Toulouse region), accommodation, meals & visits.
Option to add an extra night from €65 per person depending on the city of arrival + transport.
DETAILED ITINERARY ON REQUEST.
OPTION OF STAY WITHOUT TRANSPORT.
Accommodation
Located in the historic centre of the Rose City, just 50 metres from Place Wilson, this beautiful 4-star hotel offers high quality service in a contemporary design setting. All rooms are air-conditioned and have satellite TV and free Wi-Fi.
The hotel has a bar, the Mahogany Club, where you can relax and enjoy house cocktails made by the head bartender. There is also a heated outdoor lap pool.
Are you interested in this itinerary?
Contact us for more information!