Visit Occitanie, Gastronomic heritage, Mystical history, Extraordinary nature
An Array of Picturesque Views
Golden light spills over rolling vineyards, where ancient stone villages bask in the warmth of the Mediterranean sun. Here, time moves to the rhythm of cicadas and the distant murmur of the Mediterranean Coast of France. This land, shaped by history and passion, is a tapestry of rugged mountains, sun-drenched valleys, and whispering olive groves. Wander through the bustling streets of the Toulouse Region, where pink-hued façades glow at dusk, or lose yourself in the elegant charm of the Montpellier, where culture and modernity entwine. Further west, the rustic landscapes of Gascogne (Gascony) invite you to indulge in Armagnac and foie gras, while the peaks of Pyrenees-Occitanie stretch toward the sky, guarding secrets of an untamed past. Legends linger in the stones of the Cathar Country, where imposing Cathar Castles stand as a reminder of a turbulent history. This is the Land of the Troubadours, where poetry once flourished, and echoes of past songs still drift through ancient corridors. Whether you’re exploring the rolling vineyards of Southern France or the picturesque villages of Southwest France, you’ll find a place where heritage remains deeply rooted in everyday life.
36%
Of France wines
No1
In biodiversity
300
Days of sunshine per year
300+
HIstorical castles
Meet Occitany
In Occitanie, you will find a brilliant combination of all the beauties that France can offer. Let yourself be carried away by the atmosphere of a colorful cuisine, rich cultural traditions influenced by Catalan culture, as well as sunny vineyards. Discover the secrets of the Cathar land in the footsteps of ancient medieval castles and the former Cathar main town, Carcassonne. Some know it as Occitanie, others call it French Occitania, and to those who cherish its past, it will always be Languedoc-Roussillon. Follow the winding paths of Historic Languedoc, let the charm of the Southwestern French Countryside sweep you away, and step into a region where tradition is more than a memory—it’s a way of life.
The Timeless History and Mystery of Occitanie
Occitanie’s history is etched into its medieval fortresses and ancient ruins. The Cathars, a 12th-century religious group, promoted spiritual purity and rejected the wealth of the Catholic Church. Their beliefs led to the Albigensian Crusade (1209-1244), a brutal campaign to suppress them. The remnants of this conflict endure in the Cathar Castles—Montségur, where over 200 Cathars were executed, and Peyrepertuse and Quéribus, perched on dramatic cliffs. Nearby, the village of Rennes-Le-Château has inspired countless conspiracy theories about the Holy Grail, with legends suggesting the Cathars hid it in Montségur’s caves before the siege. This mystery has fueled stories in films like Indiana Jones and The Da Vinci Code.
Occitanie’s past also boasts a rich Roman heritage. The Pont du Gard, a stunning aqueduct, showcases ancient engineering, while Nîmes, known as the “French Rome,” features an exceptionally well-preserved amphitheater. Scattered throughout the region are picturesque medieval villages that transport visitors back in time. Sainte-Enimie, nestled in the Gorges du Tarn, is perfect for exploring on foot or by canoe, while Lagrasse, in the Corbières vineyards, is famed for its winemaking and artisan heritage. Later, the Counts of Toulouse ruled with remarkable autonomy, fostering a culture where troubadours flourished. During World War II, the Pyrenees provided refuge for Maquis resistance fighters, cementing Occitanie’s legacy as a land of resilience and defiance. Here, history is not just told—it is felt in every castle, cathedral, and cobbled street.
Authentic Experiences at the Pays d’Oc
Occitanie is a playground for adventurers and connoisseurs alike, where the thrill of the outdoors meets the art of slow travel and bespoke luxury. From hiking and canyoning in wild landscapes to truffle hunting and private vineyard experiences, the region offers countless ways to immerse yourself in its natural and cultural richness. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Pyrenees provide some of France’s finest skiing, snowshoeing, and mountaineering in winter, while summer unveils scenic hiking trails and glacial lakes. In the gorges of Tarn and Hérault, thrill-seekers can explore canyoning, rock climbing, and white-water rafting, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. The legendary Canal du Midi, a UNESCO-listed wonder, offers a more leisurely escape—whether by cycling its shaded paths or sailing on a luxury barge, sipping fine wine as the countryside drifts by. For an unparalleled perspective, take to the skies with a private helicopter tour over the Cathar castles, revealing breathtaking aerial views of Montségur, Quéribus, and Peyrepertuse. Alternatively, drift above vineyards and rolling countryside in a hot air balloon, watching the sunrise cast golden hues over the region’s diverse landscapes.
For a truly authentic experience, follow a truffle hunter through the oak forests of Tarn or the Cévennes, uncovering the prized black truffle, or indulge in a private tasting in a centuries-old wine estate, where vintners reveal the secrets of Occitanie’s most coveted bottles. In the Camargue, explore the wild landscapes on horseback, alongside the region’s famous white horses and pink flamingos, or witness an exclusive bullfighting event, an integral part of Occitanie’s identity. For those who seek refinement and adventure in equal measure, Occitanie’s outdoor and cultural experiences provide a perfect blend of exhilaration and exclusivity, ensuring every journey is as unique as the landscape itself.
Nature & Breathtaking Landscapes
With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Occitanie is France’s sunniest region, offering an extraordinary variety of landscapes that stretch from the Mediterranean coastline to the rugged Pyrenees. Every corner of this region unveils breathtaking panoramas, from dramatic gorges and towering peaks to wild beaches and serene lakes. The gorges of Occitanie are among France’s most spectacular natural wonders. The Gorges du Tarn, Gorges de l’Hérault, and Gorges de l’Aveyron carve their way through limestone cliffs, creating stunning backdrops for exploration. Whether by foot, kayak, or scenic drive, these deep canyons offer an immersive connection to the raw beauty of the region.
For those drawn to the high peaks, the Pyrenees present a dramatic playground of rugged summits and glacial lakes. Climbers and hikers can conquer mythical peaks like the Pic du Canigou, a sacred mountain of Catalonia, or the Pic de Carlit, offering breathtaking views over the Lac des Bouillouses. For a journey through history, the Cathar Trail winds through spectacular landscapes, passing by medieval ruins like Montségur, Quéribus, and Peyrepertuse, where history and nature intertwine seamlessly. For a hike that blends sea and mountains, the Collioure-Cadaqués trail is a must. This historic coastal route, once walked by Picasso, Matisse, and Dalí, connects France to Spain along the Côte Vermeille, offering unparalleled views of the Mediterranean. Whether it’s the towering peaks of the Pyrenees, the hidden gorges, or the wild beauty of the Mediterranean coast, Occitanie’s landscapes are an endless source of inspiration and adventure, waiting to be explored.
Imposing Cities of French Occitana
Occitanie is a region of contrasts, where vibrant cities and untouched landscapes blend history, culture, and architectural splendor. In Toulouse, La Ville Rose, red-brick facades glow at sunset, and the Capital of Occitanie, stands as the city’s grand centerpiece. The Cathedral of Saint Stephen (Saint-Étienne), a blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles, and the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, the largest Romanesque church in Europe, are must-sees for history lovers. Toulouse is also the starting point of the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO-listed marvel stretching over 200 km through vineyards, Cathar castles, and Romanesque treasures.
Montpellier, with its grand boulevards and lively cultural scene, balances medieval charm with modern elegance. Home to one of Europe’s oldest medical schools, its Place de la Comédie and contemporary districts like Antigone showcase the city’s dynamic spirit. Nicknamed La Ville Rouge, Albi impresses with its red-brick Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, a masterpiece of Southern Gothic architecture. As the birthplace of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, the city honors his legacy with a dedicated museum in the Berbie Palace, overlooking the Tarn River. Narbonne, founded by the Romans near the Mediterranean, offers a glimpse into antiquity with its Via Domitia, underground galleries, and imposing cathedral. Beyond the cities, the Pyrenees provide a breathtaking backdrop, from the ski slopes of Saint-Lary-Soulan to the dramatic Gavarnie Cirque, a UNESCO-listed natural wonder. Blending cultural sophistication with natural grandeur, Occitanie’s cities offer a journey through France’s rich heritage.
Culture and Authenticity of Occitanie Region
Occitanie is a land where culture is deeply woven into everyday life. The region’s artistic legacy is undeniable—Collioure, a picturesque village near the Spanish border, was the birthplace of Fauvism, the bold, vibrant painting movement pioneered by Henri Matisse and André Derain. Just south, Banyuls-sur-Mer was home to the renowned sculptor Aristide Maillol, while Céret, often called the “Mecca of Cubism,” hosted Pablo Picasso from 1911 to 1913, influencing an entire artistic revolution.
Occitanie is also where Catalan culture thrives, particularly in the Pyrénées-Orientales, where the people speak Catalan, a unique blend of French and Spanish. Experience the fiery spirit of this heritage through the rhythmic melodies of coblas, traditional orchestras accompanying the Sardana, a folk dance performed in circles, symbolizing unity and pride.
Beyond art and music, Occitanie’s craftsmanship is legendary. In Aveyron, the village of Madelaine is celebrated for its exquisite pottery, while Anduze has been a center of fine pottery since the Middle Ages, producing the highly sought-after Anduze vases. For fashion connoisseurs, La Botte Gardiane in the Gard region crafts handmade leather boots and sandals, entirely made in France. Meanwhile, Millau, the leather capital of France, is home to the prestigious Causse Gantier and Atelier du Gantier, where the finest gloves are still handcrafted with unparalleled expertise.
Whether through its vibrant art scene, deep-rooted traditions, or masterful craftsmanship, Occitanie is a cultural gem that continues to inspire, captivate, and endure.
Occitanie Cuisine : The Gastronomy of Contrasts
Occitanie’s cuisine is a vibrant celebration of land and sea, shaped by centuries of tradition and an exceptional terroir. The Catalan influence is especially strong in Roussillon, where canard aux pêches, a rich duck dish paired with caramelized peaches, showcases the region’s love for sweet-savory contrasts. The hearty Ollada, a pork and vegetable stew, has long sustained mountain communities, while Boles de Picolat, Catalan meatballs simmered in a fragrant sauce, remain a beloved staple. No meal in this part of Occitanie is complete without the silky crème catalane, a cinnamon and citrus-infused dessert reminiscent of crème brûlée. Further inland, Cassoulet reigns as the ultimate comfort dish, slow-cooked with white beans, duck confit, and sausage. This legendary meal, said to have been created during the Hundred Years’ War, sparks endless debate over its true birthplace—Castelnaudary, Toulouse, or Carcassonne.
The Mediterranean coastline offers its own specialties, such as tielle, a spicy octopus and tomato pie, and bourride, a seafood stew akin to bouillabaisse. The village of Leucate is a paradise for oyster lovers, where fresh shellfish are enjoyed straight from the lagoon. Anchovies, crushed with garlic, onion, and basil, create a bold, flavorful aperitif spread. For true gastronomes, truffles from the Tarn—known as the “black diamond” of French cuisine—add an air of indulgence. Every winter, these prized fungi are sought after in the markets of Lalbenque and Uzès, elevating simple dishes into culinary masterpieces. No discussion of Occitanie’s gastronomy would be complete without Roquefort, the world’s most famous blue cheese, aged in the natural caves of Combalou. Made exclusively from raw sheep’s milk, its creamy, tangy character has made it a symbol of French cheesemaking excellence for centuries. From its Michelin-starred restaurants to its centuries-old traditions, Occitanie’s cuisine is as diverse as its landscapes—bold, rustic, and deeply authentic
Wine: The Hidden Jewel of Occitanie
Occitanie is France’s largest wine-producing region, stretching from the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean, with a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. The diverse landscapes—ranging from sun-soaked coastal vineyards to the rugged foothills of the Pyrenees—create contrasting terroirs that result in an extraordinary variety of wines. In Languedoc, vineyards flourish under the Mediterranean sun, offering robust and expressive reds like Corbières, a vast appellation stretching from Narbonne to Carcassonne, known for its warm, full-bodied character. Other acclaimed red wine appellations include Coteaux du Languedoc and Faugères, each reflecting the region’s rich soil and bold flavors. Meanwhile, Limoux, a region often credited with inventing sparkling wine before Champagne, produces elegant Crémant de Limoux, a refined alternative to traditional bubbly.
The Roussillon area, influenced by Catalan culture, is home to some of the world’s finest Vins Doux Naturels—naturally sweet wines that exude richness and complexity. The vineyards of Maury produce deep, intense red wines alongside their renowned fortified wines, while Rivesaltes is famous for its golden-hued, amber-colored sweet wines. Along the Côte Vermeille, the sun-drenched vineyards of Banyuls-sur-Mer and Collioure are perched on steep terraces overlooking the Mediterranean, producing exceptional dry reds and fortified wines. From powerful reds to crisp sparklings and exquisite dessert wines, Occitanie offers an unparalleled wine-tasting journey, making it a true hidden jewel of France’s viticultural heritage. Whether discovering a centuries-old vineyard estate or enjoying a private tasting overlooking the sea, the wines of Occitanie are an invitation to experience the region’s timeless elegance and bold character.
Some places whisper their beauty—Occitanie declares it. Here, time bends between medieval citadels and sun-drenched vineyards, where truffle-scented air lingers in the forests, and the wind carries the echoes of troubadours past. You don’t just visit Occitanie—you claim a seat at its timeless table. Will you uncover the secrets hidden in Cathar castles? Taste the legacy of winemakers who shape the land like artists? Drift between earth and sky in a hot air balloon at sunrise? The journey isn’t waiting. It’s calling. It’s the right time to answer.
