Larger than some European countries, Midi-Pyrénées has a picturesque landscape, rich traditions and cultural attractions. Visit medieval hilltop villages, Roman remnants and vineyards.
Enjoy the youthful and progressive setting of the metropolis of Toulouse. Stroll through the University of Toulouse 1 and its two counterparts for a glimpse of college ambiance. Marvel at the Saint Etienne Cathedral, sit by a pond in the Jardin Royal and relax in the grounds surrounding the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Travel west to reach Lourdes, one of Catholicism’s most important pilgrimage sites. See the Grotte de Massabielle, where it is believed the Virgin Mary appeared 18 times to a young girl. Close to Lourdes is the charming spa town of Bagnères-de-Bigorre popular for canyoning, caving and bicycling.
Midi-Pyrénées contains many small villages hidden in valleys. Spend time in Cahors for the Cahors Cathedral and the 14th-century Pont Valentré. Bring skis and snowboards to the spa town of Cauterets, camp in the snowy mountains resorts of Luz-Saint-Sauveur and go ice climbing in Gavarnie.
Enjoy the stunning countryside in the Pyrénées National Park. Picnic near one of the pristine lakes and capture photos of imposing mountains.
Anticipate fairly dry weather year-round with hot summers and mild winters in the valleys with very occasional snow. Join locals and vacationers occupying the banks of the Garonne River while the sun is out.
Try regional delicacies containing hints of spices. Among the popular dishes is the Toulouse cassoulet, which includes duck, sausages and beans. The region is known across the globe for its Aerospace Valley, with hundreds of companies relating to aviation and space based here.
Fly to the Toulouse-Blagnac Airport and get around the region by car or train. This vast area is in southwestern France on the border with Spain, not far from Barcelona. To its west is Aquitaine region.
The Midi-Pyrénées has a varied terrain with snowy peaks for skiing and ice climbing, quaint valley villages and college towns.
