Located in the southwestern part of France, Midi-Pyrénées is a region that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty
- Toulouse: Start your journey in the city of Toulouse, known as the “Pink City” due to its blend of pink brick architecture. Explore the historic city centre, visit the impressive Basilica of Saint-Sernin, and indulge in the local gastronomy.
- Carcassonne: Step back in time as you wander through the medieval fortified city of Carcassonne. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture, with its impressive walls and turrets.
- Albi: Admire the architectural masterpiece of the Sainte-Cécile Cathedral in Albi, a UNESCO-listed site. Wander through the Old Town, known for its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses.
- Rocamadour: Perched on a cliffside, Rocamadour is a pilgrimage site with a fairytale-like ambiance. Explore the ancient churches, visit the château, and take in the views from the edge of the cliff.
- Lourdes: Discover the spiritual town of Lourdes, famous for its grotto and its association with the apparitions of the Virgin Mary. Take part in the religious processions and explore the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.
- Cirque de Gavarnie: Immerse yourself in the natural wonder of the Cirque de Gavarnie, a amphitheatre-shaped valley located in the Pyrenees National Park. Admire the impressive cascading waterfall and enjoy hiking amidst landscapes.
- Cahors: Experience the charm and history of Cahors, renowned for its medieval Pont Valentré. Explore the ancient winding streets, visit the farmers’ market, and taste the region’s famous Malbec wines.
- Saint-Cirq-Lapopie: Wander through one of France’s most beautiful scenic villages, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Lot River, the village exudes charm with its medieval buildings and views.
- Millau Viaduct: Admire the modern architectural masterpiece, the Millau Viaduct. Spanning over the Tarn Valley, this cable-stayed bridge offers views and is a testament to human engineering.
- Pic du Midi: Venture to the top of the Pic du Midi mountain and be rewarded with panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. Visit the observatory and witness sunsets and stargaze under clear night skies.
Off-the-Beaten-Track Gems:
- Cordes-sur-Ciel: Discover the medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel, perched atop a hill. Explore its narrow cobblestone streets and admire the well-preserved architecture.
- Conques: Dive into the tranquility of the village of Conques, home to the Sainte-Foy Abbey. Wander through the medieval centre and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
- Auvillar: Experience the serenity of Auvillar, a village famous for its circular market square and the views it offers over the Garonne Valley.
- Saint-Lizier: Immerse yourself in history as you stroll through the fortified medieval town of Saint-Lizier. Explore the Romanesque cathedral and enjoy the quaint atmosphere.
- Gorges de l’Aveyron: Embark on a scenic drive through the Gorges de l’Aveyron, where dramatic cliffs and landscapes await. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or canoeing.
- Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val: Lose yourself in the medieval streets of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val. This village also served as the setting for movies such as “Charlotte Gray” and “The Hundred-Foot Journey.”
- Monts d’Aubrac: Escape to the enchanting landscapes of Monts d’Aubrac, a volcanic plateau dotted with scenic villages, vast meadows, and cobblestone paths.
- Laruns: Visit the village of Laruns, Located in the heart of the Pyrenees, and indulge in outdoor activities such as hiking or skiing in nearby ski resorts.
- Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges: Explore the Roman ruins and the majestic Cathedral of Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, located in the heart of the Pyrenees mountains.
