The 9 most beautiful villages in Occitania

Staying in Occitanie? After the Cathar castles, head to Occitanie’s most beautiful villages for postcard-perfect memories!

Rich in history, the Occitanie region boasts an immense heritage. Reuniting since 2016 the parcels of the Midi-Pyrénées and Languedoc-Roussillon regions, it now occupies almost a third of France. Its historical and architectural heritage makes it one of France’s most beautiful regions, all the more so as wars spared it during the 19th century. As a result, it has retained its medieval and natural charm, with its characterful villages and unique topography. We’ve put together a list of the most beautiful villages in Occitanie to entice you to visit this area, which has countless surprises in store for you!

1. Auvillar (Tarn-et-Garonne)

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If Auvillar is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Occitanie, it’s not for nothing. Its name comes from the Latin Alta Villa, meaning « high city ». Indeed, nestled on a promontory, the view from Auvillar over the Garonne valley is exceptional. The village has suffered many setbacks over the years, the scars of which can still be seen today. Discover this history and the buildings still standing, such as the Tour de l’Horloge, built in the 17th century, or the astonishing Halle aux Grains, built in 1829.

2. Rocamadour (Lot)

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It’s hard to come up with a list of Occitanie’s most beautiful villages without including Rocamadour. Rocamadour, on the route taken by pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela, is a regional nugget. Firstly, its construction is more than daring, atop a peak. Secondly, the beauty and preservation of the site are simply breathtaking. Finally, Rocamadour has been visited for over eight centuries. Today, over one and a half million visitors a year come to admire the impeccable medieval architecture. But perhaps it’s also for the challenge: a staircase of over 200 steps will give you a hard time before you finally gain access to the Basilica of Saint-Sauveur and the Crypt of Saint-Amadour.

3. Gorges du Tarn Causses (Lozère)

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This large commune was born in 2017 from the union of the smaller communes of Saint-Enimie, Montbrun and Quézac. Situated in a limestone environment, this large « village » spread over three communes has adapted to and occupied the territory in a very natural way. With the Tarn running through them, they have direct access to the river, offering outdoor activities such as canoeing and climbing. Their medieval appearance lends them an unmistakable charm. Let yourself be seduced by the narrow streets, cobbled floors and numerous white stone walls.

4. Collioure (Pyrénées-Orientales)

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Discover the warm, peaceful atmosphere of Collioure. Indeed, on the shores of the Mediterranean, the village of Collioure stands out for the perfect preservation of its sites, with a rich past that has attracted many artists. In fact, it was the birthplace of the furtive Fauvism movement, which placed color at the center of painting. Collioure is one of the most beautiful villages in Occitanie, and you’ll find it between the buildings, along the beach and on the harbour breakwater.

5. Conques (Aveyron)

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A real gem in the heart of the wilderness, Conques has earned its place as one of Occitanie’s most beautiful villages. Although it is also a stage on the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, Conques is much more than that. In fact, the village’s geographical location enables it to offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including canoeing, fishing, cycling and even caving. But it’s the historical and architectural heritage of the area that attracts most tourists, and we strongly recommend that you take your turn in discovering it.

6. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert (Hérault)

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Situated on the banks of the Verdus, a small stream that flows into the Hérault, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a village that has also preserved its medieval allure. Houses, streets and low walls are all made of exposed stone, lending the whole a weighty charm. Very green, this village stands out for its cleanliness and calm. It’s a must for those who want to recharge their batteries. At its heart lies the Gellone Abbey, a superb example of 11th-century architecture, bordered by vineyards. The villages of Occitanie are renowned for their character, and Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is no exception!

7. Cordes-sur-Ciel (Tarn)

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Voted France’s favorite village in 2014 on the France 2 TV program of the same name, Cordes-sur-Ciel is one of Occitanie’s must-see villages. Explore this village as you would a history book. Discover the centuries of life that have shaped it, making it a vestige of its own epic. You’ll be charmed by the gentle, welcoming atmosphere of the narrow streets, the greenery clinging to the rough-hewn stone houses and the view over the surrounding valley. There’s a lot to discover in Cordes-sur-Ciel: museums, gardens, halls and religious buildings. So plan to stop off for more than just a day!

8. Fourcès (Gers)

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As well as being one of the most famous villages in Occitanie, Fourcès has the audacity to be built in an original way. Indeed, its main thoroughfare forms a circle at its center, creating a perfectly round ring road around which the houses are built. The village’s charm lies in its calm and the strong presence of nature: greenery and the Auzoue river running alongside. Rather atypical, Fourcès is a place to be discovered slowly, giving visitors time to soak up its ever-summery atmosphere. The architecture is also well preserved: half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, rough stone walls… and the 13th-century Tour de l’Horloge.

9. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (Lot)

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One of the most beautiful villages in Occitanie (and France) is Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. This incredible village perched on a rocky peak guarantees a complete change of scenery. Indeed, the narrow streets, red-tiled houses and stalls have retained their medieval allure. Dating back to the 13th century, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie has been surprisingly well preserved from the ravages of time. Its fortified church, château and Rignault museum bear witness to a rich past, and in themselves justify the existence of a historical heritage. The surrounding greenery also contrasts with the red-roofed village. And with good reason: Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is right in the heart of the Causses du Quercy Regional Nature Park!

Going further, thinking bigger

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Discover also the villages that have become magnificent cities such as Carcassonne, Narbonne, Nîmes, Albi or Lourdes. Today, these Occitan towns attract many tourists in search of a change of scenery. Their history is rooted in their soil and walls. Sometimes very large, they have lent themselves to modernity, but intrinsically retain their medieval soul.

Map of hotels and accommodation – Occitanie