Rising dramatically above the Tarn River, Albi is one of southern France's most captivating secrets. Its towering Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, the world's largest brick Gothic cathedral, dominates the skyline like a fortress of faith, while the warm terracotta rooftops of the old town glow amber in the afternoon sun. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Albi's medieval heart is remarkably intact, inviting visitors to wander cobblestone lanes lined with half-timbered houses and artisan boutiques. The city is also the proud birthplace of painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, whose vibrant legacy lives on at the dedicated museum beside the episcopal palace. With lush riverside promenades, local markets brimming with regional flavours, and a pace of life that feels wonderfully unhurried, Albi is southern France at its most authentic.