Discover Arifat: waterfalls, circular trail and history

When planning a stay in Arifat, you can explore nature and architectural history through specific places. The Cascades d'Arifat are known for their waterfalls, a circular trail, a viewpoint and birdlife; Château d'Arifat and the former seigneurial chapel of Saint-Pierre d'Arifat offer two stories of historic buildings. This lets you choose whether to focus your trip on hiking, nature or history.

Waterfalls and circular trail

The waterfalls of the Cascades d'Arifat plunge down in three stages over a height of more than 80 metres. The Sentier de découverte des cascades d'Arifat is a moderately difficult, 2.1-kilometre circular trail bearing the FFRandonnée label. The path crosses a footbridge and leads to a viewpoint above the waterfalls. Distance, circular route and difficulty describe different aspects of the hike; take the “moderate” rating into account alongside the length when planning. The height of the Cascades and the length of the circular trail are two different measurements.

After heavy rainfall, it may be impossible to cross the stream below the Cascades d'Arifat. Take this weather-dependent warning into account when visiting, and check conditions in advance if you plan to cross the stream.

Birdlife at the Cascades d'Arifat

The Cascades provide a habitat especially for the Short-toed Snake Eagle (Circaète Jean-le-Blanc), the Peregrine Falcon and the Common Raven; the Crag Martin is also found there. Birdlife adds a distinct natural dimension to the waterfalls and hiking route. If you are interested in birds, these species offer a specific starting point for observing the landscape.

Château and chapel: two architectural histories

Château d'Arifat was built in the 12th century by the Soubiran family, the first lords of Arifat. It was burned down in 1574 and rebuilt in 1587. The former seigneurial chapel of Saint-Pierre d'Arifat was also built in 1587. The year therefore marks two different events: for the château, it denotes its reconstruction; for the chapel, its construction. The chapel is a small building with a Romanesque appearance and Gothic elements.

Today, the former chapel hosts some concerts and exhibitions organised by the municipality and the Association de sauvegarde du site d’Arifat. If you would like to combine your visit with an event, check the dates in advance.

Canyoning: check the participation requirements

Canyoning at the Cascades d'Arifat is restricted to licensed groups from French mountaineering and climbing federations, alpine and mountain clubs or speleology clubs, as well as groups supervised by qualified professionals. Canyoning without supervision is prohibited for individuals. If you are planning to go canyoning, check in advance that your group meets one of the stated requirements.

Discover more destinations: Assac, Cadalen, Massaguel, Montcabrier, Vindrac-Alayrac, Salvagnac, Montgey, Nages

For the overview of the wider region: Tarn.