Barry-d'Islemade: Hiking, Canoeing and Heritage

Barry-d'Islemade can be explored through a range of interests: a circuit around three lakes, a canoe route with two river sections, two religious buildings and a winery. If you are looking for a hotel for a stay here, these specific themes can help structure your plans. The activities differ in what they offer and in the details that matter for planning—from route length and wildlife spotting to the course and a visit by request.

Circuit, lakes and walks

The Circuit des lacs is a 7.8-kilometre hiking trail rated “very easy.” Its stated starting point is 123 Rue de la Mairie in Barry-d'Islemade. The route goes around three lakes, where numerous birds can be observed. With careful observation, crayfish and turtles can also be spotted. The route’s length and difficulty provide a clear framework for planning your day, while the animals mentioned offer an additional way to appreciate the natural surroundings along the lakes.

Lac de Jendraux offers a different focus: it is a place for walks and relaxation, and is also classified as a Category 2 fishing area for predatory fish. Its classification adds a clear point of reference for those interested in fishing to the opportunity for walks. The circuit, with its stated length and wildlife, is therefore distinct from the lake, with its own recreational and fishing appeal.

Canoe route on the Aveyron and Tarn

For the advertised canoe route, participants are taken by minibus from Plage de Payrol to Gué de Piquecos. The route goes downstream on the Aveyron and then 200 metres upstream on the Tarn, returning to Plage de Payrol. It therefore covers two river sections with different directions of flow and ends back at the beach. Stand-up paddleboarding is also available on request at the canoe base at Plage de Payrol.

Different planning details can help you choose between the activities: for the Circuit des lacs, the length and stated difficulty are the main considerations, while for the canoe route, they are the river course and minibus transfer. This information can help you decide whether to include a hiking trail or a water excursion in your stay.

Building history and architecture

Église Sainte-Madeleine was rebuilt in 1763 at the bishop’s request, 300 metres from the original church. The circular stained-glass window in the façade bears the coat of arms of the Order of Malta and commemorates this event. The church’s history and its window each provide a specific point of reference for learning about the area.

The Protestant temple in Barry-d'Islemade is another building with its own architectural feature: it is circular. The two religious buildings therefore differ in the aspects described: for Église Sainte-Madeleine, these are its rebuilding history and stained-glass window; for the temple, its round shape. Those interested in architecture will find two distinct points of interest.

Wine and visits

Domaine de Massougné covers 10 hectares. Free winery tours are available on request. Its offerings include red, rosé and white wines under the IGP Lavilledieu designation, sold both in bottles and by the glass. The tour and the wine selection are two specific aspects to consider if you are interested in wine in Barry-d'Islemade.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Lacapelle-Livron, Molières, Fajolles, Saint-Urcisse, Cazes-Mondenard, Montalzat, Milhars, Montesquieu

Go to the main travel overview: Tarn-Et-Garonne.