A bastide market town with a historic lake and Montagne Noire views.
Revel is a 14th-century bastide town in the Haute-Garonne, about 55 km south-east of Toulouse, known for its covered market hall, its Saturday market and its tradition of marquetry and furniture-making. The nearby Lac de Saint-Ferréol, built in the 17th century to feed the Canal du Midi, is a 67-hectare reservoir at the foot of the Montagne Noire with lawns, a supervised summer swimming area and boat hire.
There is no convenient public transport, so visitors drive about 45 minutes from Toulouse. The Saturday morning market is a major draw, and the lake is pleasant for a picnic. Check the Revel water-quality bulletin before swimming, because cyanobacteria bans do occur.
A suggested day starts with the market and Place Philippe VI de Valois, then a picnic or swim at the lake, and a short walk along the dam wall. Add the Pic de Nore for a longer outing.
| Distance | About 55 km south-east of Toulouse |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 45 minutes by car |
| Getting there | Car, about 45 minutes from Toulouse via Revel; no convenient public transport |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Place Philippe VI de Valois, 31250 Revel, France |
How to get there
- Car
- Organised tour
Suggested itinerary
- Revel market, lunch, Lac de Saint-Ferréol swim or boat, return
Location
Place Philippe VI de Valois, 31250 Revel, France
43.4375, 2.0217 View on map
Highlights
- Revel's 14th-century covered market hall and Saturday market
- Supervised swimming and boat hire at Saint-Ferréol
- Lawn picnics beside a historic reservoir
- Gateway to the Montagne Noire
Tips for visiting
- Visit Revel on a Saturday morning for the market
- Check the Revel water-quality bulletin before swimming
- Drive early in summer to find lake parking
- Bring a picnic and sun protection
When to visit
May-September for the lake; Saturdays for the market.
Accessibility
The market square is flat; the lakeside promenade is mostly level.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How far is Revel from Toulouse?
About 55 km, around 45 minutes by car.
When is the Revel market?
Saturday mornings.
Can visitors swim at Saint-Ferréol?
Yes in summer when supervised; check notices for cyanobacteria bans.