Puech de Rascas

Puech de Rascas is a mountain summit in the Lacaune range that reaches 1270 meters and serves as the highest point in the Tarn department. The peak is fully occupied by radar and radio installations that dominate the upper plateau.

The summit came under military control and became equipped with radar and radio stations under the command of Air Base 125 Istres-Le Tubé. Since its military establishment, it has served as a strategic position for communications and surveillance operations.

The name 'Puech' comes from Occitan, the old language spoken in this part of France, and means mountain peak. This word choice reflects how the local landscape shaped the way people here talked about their land.

The summit is strictly off limits to hikers because of the military installations that cover the entire peak. The surrounding mountain trails offer walkers a chance to explore the landscape from different viewpoints, though the top remains inaccessible.

The mountain is formed primarily of schist, a rock type that defines the geology of the Lacaune range. This particular stone composition gives the peak its distinctive character and sets it apart from other summits in the area.