Sainte-Enimie
Your Holiday in Sainte-Enimie in the Gorges du Tarn and Cévennes
Spending your holiday in Sainte-Enimie means choosing a vacation immersed in nature, far from the crowded Mediterranean beaches and their artificial surroundings. The medieval village of Sainte-Enimie is ranked among the 100 most beautiful villages in France. Sainte-Enimie is located at the heart of the Gorges du Tarn, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Like any respectable medieval village, you will find cobbled streets made from Tarn pebbles, typical houses, restored squares, and an ancient monastery dating back to the 6th century. But Sainte-Enimie is much more than just old stones steeped in history. There is a unique atmosphere here, filled with the scent of legend.
The Legend of Sainte-Enimie
Enimie, a princess of royal blood, was the daughter of Clotaire II and the sister of King Dagobert I. She was irresistibly beautiful but deeply pious, wishing to dedicate her life to serving the Lord, much to the despair of her father. Unable to convince the king, she turned to the Almighty, asking to lose her beauty. Her prayer was answered, and a terrible leprosy disfigured the princess. An angel then advised her to bathe in the Burle Spring in Gévaudan. After a long journey, the princess arrived at the spring, bathed, and her mysterious affliction disappeared. On the way back, however, the disease returned, worsening with every step. The princess then realized that God had called her to this miraculous place, in the heart of the Gorges du Tarn.
Princess Enimie then settled in the village that bears her name and decided to evangelize the region. Thus, the monastery was founded on the heights of the village.
Visit Sainte-Enimie
The Chapter House of the monastery once hosted the monks’ refectory, as well as pilgrims and travelers passing through. The walls still bear decorations of acanthus leaves and human faces. This room is open in July and August.
path leads to the hermitage where Princess Enimie is believed to have lived as a hermit. A chapel protects the cave where she is thought to have resided.
Have fun by downloading the BALUDIK app. Look for the route "The Legend of Sainte-Enimie"; it’s simple, fun, easy to access, and richly documented.
At the origin of the Legend of Sainte-Enimie, the Burle Spring is located at the bottom of the village of Sainte-Enimie. A wooden boardwalk allows you to explore the entire spring area.
Sainte-Enimie: The Perfect Starting Point to Explore the Gorges du Tarn by Canoe
It is precisely near the Burle Spring that Camping Couderc welcomes you. The panorama here is exceptional! Mother Nature has created marvels, and the lively waters of the river winding through the Gorges du Tarn will delight outdoor sports enthusiasts. Hiking, mountain biking, canyoning, via ferrata, rock climbing, tree climbing, caving, fishing, and horseback riding – there is something for everyone, whether you're an experienced athlete or a beginner.
A perfect starting point for anyone wanting to discover the Gorges du Tarn by canoe, Camping Couderc enjoys an exceptional location by the river in Sainte-Enimie. When you come to Camping Couderc, swimming lovers can enjoy our private beaches and heated pool. Canoe and kayak rentals are available directly at the campsite, and a playground is available for your children.
Nestled in the heart of nature and in a landmark location of the Gorges du Tarn, we have ensured that this unique setting is respected. Our rental accommodations perfectly blend with the surrounding nature and will captivate you with their variety. Whether it’s a mobile home, a Coco Sweet by the river, or Victoria Lodges, everything is designed to provide you with a total escape during your holiday.
Camping Couderc and its entire team wish you a wonderful holiday in Sainte-Enimie.