Landscape
The Roc des Hourtous is a viewpoint overlooking the Gorges du Tarn in the municipality of La Malène. From there, visitors can enjoy views of the Détroits and the Cirque des Baumes. The Détroits section of the Gorges du Tarn is 2 km long; there, the river is enclosed by two 50-metre-high rock walls that narrow to just 30 metres apart.
In the area around the centre of La Malène, a deep cleft forms a link to the Causse Sauveterre.
Those who choose La Malène as a travel destination may wish to rent a holiday apartment.
Water and Trails
A hiking route from La Malène leads via the Chemin du facteur to Rieisse, descends to the Tarn and follows the riverside path on the return journey.
At La Malène, visitors can canoe and kayak on the Tarn; rental companies offer various routes and take participants back to the starting point by bus after the trip. The tradition of boat trips in the Gorges du Tarn continues to this day.
Culture and History
The Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste in La Malène is a Romanesque building probably constructed in the 12th century by members of religious orders from Sainte-Enimie. Its nave houses the 17th-century painting “Saint Jérôme lisant” by Luis Tristan de Escamilla. The expiatory chapel inside the church contains the remains of 21 residents of La Malène who were executed during the Revolution.
The remains of Castel Merlet, also known as Castellum Melena or Amarillès, stand on the rocky outcrop of Rocher de la Barre above the centre of La Malène, along with evidence of a former place of worship. The complex dates from the 6th or 7th century.
Local Cuisine
Coustillous, grilled pieces of pork ribs, and braised potatoes are considered a traditional local dish of La Malène.
