High above the village of Malzieu-Ville, in Margeride, set off to explore the granite boulder fields and discover the Porte des fées. A must-see natural landmark offering views over the Gorges de la Truyère.
Legend has it…
It is said that if a young girl walks through this gate at midnight on a full moon, she will marry within the year. Like any legend, this rite of passage seems truly magical, as if it came from another realm belonging to the hidden world of fairies. A somewhat sadder story lies behind the Fairy Gate: “A very long time ago, an old shepherd was tending his sheep. During his walk, he lost one of them. As he set off in search of it, he saw three fairies bathing in the Truyère. Surprised to be seen, they went to meet the old shepherd and promised him love and wealth if he kept the secret. So he told the fairies he would keep his word. But alas, when he reached the town of Malzieu, he told everyone what had happened to him. No one believed him and they laughed at him. He died alone, in utter poverty.”
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Focus on Malzieu-Ville
Listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, Malzieu is a medieval town steeped in history. Welcomed by magnificently restored gates, take a stroll through the narrow streets of this fortified village, where medieval ramparts and towers overlook the village. The event not to be missed here is the Malzieu Medieval Festival, held over a weekend in late May each year, where enthusiasts wander about in costume, tell stories and where numerous stalls immerse you in the world of the Middle Ages.
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