Rachel Southwood

23 October 2025

Lifestyle & Culture

Adventures, Architecture and the Unexpected: The Best of Occitanie

Occitanie is a region that packs a serious punch. Stretching from the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean, it’s got more than its fair share of jaw-dropping landscapes, medieval cities, cultural treasures and outdoor adventures, not to mention a few secret spots just beyond its borders.

Whether you're visiting, living here, or planning to make it home, here’s our pick of 12 unforgettable things to do in and around Occitanie.

1. Explore the Fairytale City of Carcassonne

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic sights in France, La Cité de Carcassonne is like stepping into a medieval film set. Walk the ramparts, explore the winding streets and stay for sunset - it’s pure magic.

2. Day Trip to Andorra – Mountains, Spas and Shopping

A couple of hours’ drive from many parts of Occitanie, Andorra offers duty-free shopping, dramatic scenery and indulgent spas. Whether you ski in winter or hike in summer, it’s a brilliant day (or weekend) away.

Andorra's dramatic scenery nestled in the Pyrenees mountains

3. Cross into Spain for Tapas and Sunshine

Barcelona, Girona and the Costa Brava are easily reachable for a day trip or short break. In some places, the border’s barely noticeable - perfect for a spontaneous Spanish lunch or a beach day with a twist.

4. Sea Kayaking on the Étang de Thau

Explore the vast saltwater lagoon just outside Sète, famous for its oyster farms and birdlife. Kayak past mussel beds, spot flamingos and even stop for a fresh seafood tasting straight from the source.

5. Step Back in Time at the Pont du Gard

This incredible Roman aqueduct near Nîmes is a feat of ancient engineering and a beautiful spot for a swim or picnic. You can walk or kayak beneath it, and there’s a great museum on site too.

6. Visit the Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Lourdes

One of the world’s most famous pilgrimage sites, it’s peaceful, powerful and surprisingly beautiful, even if you’re not religious. Visit the grotto, light a candle or just soak up the serene atmosphere.

Follow the Jubilee Way from the Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Lourdes

7. Descend into the Gouffre de Padirac

A truly otherworldly experience, the Gouffre de Padirac is a giant chasm with an underground river. You’ll descend 100 metres underground and travel by boat through cathedral-like caverns. Unforgettable.

8. Admire the Arènes de Nîmes - France’s Roman Colosseum

Still in use today for concerts and events, the amphitheatre in Nîmes is one of the best-preserved in the world. Combine it with a stroll around the old town, and a glass of something cold in the sunshine.

9. Feel the Buzz at Le Capitole in Toulouse

The grand Place du Capitole is the beating heart of Toulouse. By day, sip a coffee beneath the pink-hued arches; by night, enjoy open-air concerts, theatre, or just the lively hum of the city.

10. Marvel at the Basilique Saint-Sernin, Toulouse

This remarkable Romanesque church is one of the largest in Europe and a key stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. It’s awe-inspiring in scale and full of history.

11. Hike the Cirque de Gavarnie

One of the most spectacular natural wonders in the Pyrenees, the Cirque de Gavarnie is a glacial amphitheatre surrounded by towering peaks and waterfalls. Whether you hike, ride or just picnic nearby… it’s breathtaking.

Enjoying the fresh local produce from Bouzigues

12. Eat, Drink and Be Very Happy

Okay, this one’s more of a way of life than a single thing to do. But from cassoulet in Castelnaudary to fresh oysters in Bouzigues, market stalls in Revel to wine-tasting in Gaillac, food and drink in Occitanie is a constant joy.

Make It Your Base, Or Your Home

The beauty of Occitanie is not just that it offers all this – but that you can reach so much of it within a couple of hours. Whether you’re looking to relocate or buy a second home, you’ll never run out of things to see, eat or experience.

Need help finding your perfect property? We know the region inside out and we’re always happy to share our favourites. Get in touch today!