France is one of the most sough-out travel destinations in the world. Many tourists here enjoy the beautiful scenery, hillside wine regions, quaint towns, mountains, beautiful beaches, and river barge cruises. While many are familiar with the famous city of Paris, there is also one unique destination, full of luxurious outdoor experiences, that you should consider while visiting the country. Occitanie, France, is a warm, sunny southern region consisting of Aude, Ariege, and Pyrenees Orientales. In this article, we’ll explore these grandeur attractions to help you plan your next visit to this magnificent region!
CHÂTEAUX
One of Occitanie’s greatest attributes is its superb châteaux, offering you a historical experience and a deep dive into some of France’s oldest history.
Châteaux de Lastours,
The Châteaux de Lastours is a beautiful culmination of four historical castles. These structures sit atop a hill overlooking the beautiful village that resides below. You’ll find towers, spiral staircases, antique arched window fixtures, and a beautiful view of the valley and river surrounding the castles. This château is a must-see if you’re staying near the Lastours area!
Château Comtal
The next Château on this list can be found in the beautiful city of Carcassonne. If you enjoy a more medieval aesthetic, the Comtal Châteaux is the perfect tourist spot for you. Built with high stone walls and a tower overlooking the area, you can walk through the structure and be transported back into the dark ages. Château Comtal is considered to be the largest city in Europe, whose walls are still standing. Plenty of magnificent views, walkways, and statues keep you entertained throughout every level of this fantastic attraction.
Château de Foix
In the southernmost region of France, an impressive château sits upon a rocky hill overlooking the village below in the city of Foix. Built-in the 15th century, this fortress remains wonderfully intact, providing a unique and extravagant experience any tourist will enjoy. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the historical museum, where you’ll find displays from prehistoric times and medieval archaeology.
BEACHES
When you’re in Occitanie, don’t forget to dive into one of its many serene beaches. There are many beaches to choose from, all having their own unique qualities and experiences.
Espiguette Beach
Situated in the Mediterranean basin, Espiguette Beach is a unique experience full of beautiful plants and native animals. With blue, clean waters, this is the perfect beach to bring the family, as there are also lifeguards on duty watching over the beach. Espiguette Beach also has some of the vastest dunes in the area that are fun to explore, take pictures of, and enjoy a healthy dose of sunshine.
Orpellieres Beach
Off the coast of Serginan, just on the edge of the Orpellieres nature reserve, is the Orpellieres beach. If you’re looking for a more natural landscape, consider visiting this beach. The sandy beach and dunes are unkept, meaning they are in their utmost natural state. The beach is also quiet and perfect for a silent retreat and disconnected from the world.
Couchant Beach
There’s nothing better than pairing an afternoon at the beach with a luxurious shopping trip. You can have the best of both worlds at Couchant Beach in La Grande-Motte. Consider stopping here to enjoy the beautiful, soft sand, family-friendly shoreline, boutiques, carousel, and cuisine.
VINEYARDS
Occitanie is famous for its authentic vine-yards scattered across the region. If you’re a wine lover or enjoy a peaceful retreat, consider stopping by one of these upscale vineyards.
Mas Baux
The Mas Baux vineyard is located in the province of Roussillon. The fully operational vineyard prides itself on its organic growing, harvesting, and production. Visiting this vineyard is a beautiful experience, seeing their 20 hectares of land and fully restored 18th-century houses. Their winemaker, Serge Baux’s practices heavily involve respecting nature throughout their process. The Mediterranean is nearby, perfect for taking a walk on the beach after your visit here.
Seigneurie De Peyrat
The Seigneurie de Peyrat resides in the Pézenas area. This vineyard specializes in both red and white wines; they have a variety for just about anyone. Here, you’ll find some of the most delicious grape varieties, like Merlot, carignan, syrah, pinot noir, colombard, Vermentino, and many more. Upon arrival, you have the opportunity to visit their prestige castle, chapel, and cellar, to get the full experience of the vineyard.
Domaine Saint Hilaire
Lastly, this historic vineyard is set in the beautiful land of Languedoc. Here, you can join a wine tasting for free, check out their art gallery, browse the summer historical exhibition, and walk about their luscious vineyards. They also offer delicious tapas and barbecues and have the option to serve three-course lunches.
