Occitanie: a region rich in history, culture and natural beauty.
Highlights
Explore the many atmospheric local towns and villages — including Carcassonne, Mirepoix, Foix, Camon and Fanjeaux
Cycle along the historic Canal du Midi
Go hiking or skiing in the Pyrenees, followed by a soak in the thermal baths and hot springs of Ax-les-Thermes
Sample the region’s famous food and wines
Discover the many local markets selling fresh produce and regional specialities
Experience the cultural highlights of Toulouse, France’s vibrant ‘Pink City’ (named the best urban destination to visit in 2025 by Lonely Planet)
Take a trip to the beaches of the Mediterranean coast
Enjoy the many local activities on offer like golfing, sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, archery, birdwatching and horse riding
Local attractions near Le Domaine de Loustalviel
Canal du Midi
The canal runs peacefully and very beautifully all the way from the Mediterranean to the Gironde. Le Domaine de Loustalviel is under 25 minutes from the quiet lock at Le Seuil de Naurouze, and the busy Bassin at Castelnaudary, both good starting points for a stroll or bike ride along the plane tree shaded towpath.
Castles
There are some spectacular mountain top castles, all within easy reach of Le Domaine de Loustalviel. The most memorable are Peyrepertuse and Quéribus (2 hours), Lastours (75 mins, just north of Carcassonne) and Montségur (1 hour due south, via Mirepoix and Lavelanet). This last was at the heart of the Cathar movement. The climb up to the stronghold can take up to an hour, but the incredible view from the top is worth it!
You could also visit Roquefixade, perched high above the unspoilt village near Lavelanet. For those not up to a climb, the more accessible Chateau de Lagarde is only 10 minutes south of Mirepoix.
Caves and grottes
There are many prehistoric caves in the area. The paintings at Grotte de Niaux are said to be 12,000 years old. For an exciting day out, we’d recommend taking a boat trip along the longest navigable underground river in Europe through the caves (which are 60m deep) at Labouiche. Alternatively, the Grotte du Mas-d'Azil is a vast prehistoric cave that lent its name to the Azilian culture.
Hiking
The Gorges de la Frau is a dramatic and scenic natural site offering gorgeous views and hiking opportunities in a mountainous area near Mirepoix.
Also nearby is the Cathar Trail (Sentier Cathare), a historic hiking trail connecting various Cathar castles, including Château de Puivert. The trail takes you through picturesque landscapes and ancient sites tied to the Cathar history.
Vineyards
There used to be a vineyard at Le Domaine de Loustalviel but sadly it no longer exists! Nearby vineyards include Domaine Gayda (which has an excellent restaurant), Domaine le Fort, and, for wonderful sparkling wines, there’s J Laurens in Limoux which offers tours and tastings.
Bird sanctuary
The beautiful 100-hectare Domaine des Oiseaux in nearby Mazères provides a resting, eating and nesting area for numerous birds. There’s also an educational farm, a museum, fishing areas and peaceful walking trails.
Bison farm
Near Lapenne is La Ferme aux Bisons. They offer guided tours of their herd of bison, deer, eland, wapiti, watusi, yaks and other exotic beasts, all from the comfort of a tractor pulled bus, and there’s also a petting zoo.
Bamboo park
Le Parc aux Bambous is a botanical garden designated as a “Remarkable Garden” of France. It’s next door to the Bison Farm near Lapenne. Spanning four hectares, it features over 200 species of bamboo and includes peaceful walking paths, flower gardens, water features and a bamboo maze. There’s also a lovely small Indonesian restaurant on site.
Canoeing and kayaking
There are lots of river-sport options in and around the Pyrenees. Atalaya Canoe is located only 10 minutes away in the village of Belpech or Naturokayarc is a 20-minute drive away near the Bison farm and Bamboo park in Lapenne - both offer spectacular canoeing and kayaking along the beautiful Hers-Vif (summer only).
Lakes, sailing and windsurfing
The Lac de la Ganguise is a 25-minute drive away and offers sailing and windsurfing. The Lac de Montbel is a lovely spot less than an hour's drive from Le Domaine de Loustalviel, offering swimming, fishing, canoeing, sailing, paddleboarding and walking. Another option is the Lac de Saint-Ferréol, near Revel in the Montagne Noire, which offers swimming, sailing, kayaking and hiking (the nearby Musée et Jardins du Canal du Midi showcases the 17th-century engineering marvel of the canal, surrounded by romantic gardens). You could also head to the Mediterranean coast for plenty more options!
Skiing
Ax-les-Thermes features the Ax 3 Domaines ski resort and is renowned for its thermal baths. The town is just over an hour's drive away from Le Domaine de Loustalviel. In under two hours you can also reach the larger resorts of Andorra.
Historic mountain railway
For a lazy way to explore the magnificent scenery of the Pyrenees, try a day trip on Le Train Jaune, which climbs dramatically from Villefranche de Conflent to the highest railway station in Europe at Bolquère and then meanders across the beautiful hidden valley of La Cerdagne to Latour-de-Carol.
Dom Robert tapestry museum
The Dom Robert tapestry museum in Sorèze is dedicated to the vibrant and nature-inspired works of Dom Robert, a Benedictine monk and renowned 20th-century tapestry artist. Located within the historic Abbey School of Sorèze, the museum showcases a really fascinating collection of tapestries, sketches and weaving techniques.
Local towns and villages to explore
Mirepoix
The medieval galleried square at Mirepoix is a picture-book sight. The town is famous for its timber-framed houses, painted in vibrant colors and adorned with arcades. When it’s full and bustling on market day, it’s irresistible to sit in one of the cafés under the arcades and watch it all happening.
Castelnaudary
Castelnaudary was where cassoulet was invented, and there isn’t a restaurant in the town that doesn’t claim their version as the original, and the best in town! It’s worth taking a walk along the tree-lined Canal du Midi to the Bassin.
Camon
Camon is a charming village famous for its 12th-century abbey and its status as one of the “most beautiful villages in France” (Les Plus Beaux Villages de France) due to its well-preserved stone buildings and picturesque narrow streets. Camon is also known for its beautiful rose gardens, which bloom in the spring.
Vals
Vals is a small and atmospheric village, known for its unique church partially built into a rocky outcrop. The Église Rupestre de Vals, dating back to the 10th century, is a very peaceful spot to visit and its winding stone steps lead to panoramic views over the rolling hills.
Fanjeaux
Fanjeaux is a medieval village perched on a hilltop with winding streets, ancient churches and magnificent surrounding landscapes. It’s also the birthplace of Saint Dominic, the founder of the Dominican Order. Fanjeaux hosts a fantastic art exhibition in summer.
Carcassonne
A wonderful medieval walled city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Carcassonne is a must-see. It’s famous for its double walls, towers and cobbled streets. A visit there feels like stepping back in time.
Foix
Foix is an attractive town surrounded by the Pyrenees, known for its impressive medieval castle. The town’s history dates back to Roman times, and it played a significant role during the Cathar period. Foix is also a gateway for outdoor activities.
Montolieu
Pretty Montolieu is known as the “Village of Books” due to its many bookstores and literary atmosphere. Located at the foot of the Black Mountains, it boasts narrow, picturesque streets and a rich history tied to printing and bookbinding.
Saint-Felix-Lauragais
The village of Saint-Felix-Lauragais is known for its scenic views over the Lauragais plain and the Montagne Noire. Its medieval architecture includes the Church of Saint-Félix and remnants of old fortifications.
Limoux
Limoux is famous for its sparkling blanquette de Limoux, believed to be the precursor to champagne. The town also hosts one of the oldest and most festive Carnival celebrations in France, drawing visitors with its lively parades and traditional costumes.
Caunes-Minervois
Caunes-Minervois is a charming village surrounded by vineyards, known for its striking red and pink marble. It has a beautiful 11th-century abbey, and is also close to the Parc Naturel Régional du Haut-Languedoc and the Gorges de la Cesse.
Saint-Lizier
Saint-Lizier is a medieval village perched on a hill above the River Salat. It boasts landmarks like the 17th century Saint-Lizier Cathedral and ancient Bishop's Palace, along with an 18th century pharmacy. The village also has lovely views over the surrounding countryside.
Lagrasse
Nestled in the Corbières hills, Lagrasse is celebrated for its ancient charm and designation (like Camon, above) as one of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France”. It’s home to quaint stone houses and the majestic Abbaye Sainte-Marie de Lagrasse, founded under Charlemagne in 779, which hosts the annual “Banquet du Livre” literary festival.
Gruissan
Gruissan is a pretty coastal village renowned for beautiful beaches, pink salt flats, and the nearby Clape Massif, which provides excellent hiking opportunities. Its historic centre is built in a circular pattern around a 10th-century tower. The village also features traditional stilt houses along the shoreline, made famous by the film Betty Blue.
Albi
Albi is a beautiful city located along the Tarn River. It’s famous for its stunning red-brick buildings, particularly the UNESCO-listed Sainte-Cécile Cathedral. The city is also the birthplace of the renowned artist Henri Toulouse-Lautrec and has a museum dedicated to his works.
Castelnau-de-Montmiral
Perched on a rocky promontory, Castelnau-de-Montmiral is a medieval bastide village with panoramic views of the Grésigne Forest and the Gaillac vineyards. Its well-preserved architecture includes the arcaded central square and the Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church, which houses a 14th-century cross adorned with 310 precious stones.
Cordes-sur-Ciel
Cordes-sur-Ciel is a fairy-tale medieval hilltop village, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Famous for its cobbled streets, gothic architecture and charming artisan shops, it’s also close to the Parc Naturel Régional des Grands Causses.
