Crowned by the snowy peaks of the Pyrenees Mountains are the towns and villages of the Haute-Garonne department. The region has the lively student town of Toulouse at its core, with castles, lakes and ski resorts adorning the countryside. Visit Haute-Garonne for hiking and skiing in the stunning mountains and valleys and discover a fascinating history and culture in Toulouse.
Follow the meandering path of the Garonne River from which the region takes its name. The famous waterway runs through the heart of Toulouse, with its sloped green banks filled with students and sunbathers in summer. Learn about the city’s place at the core of the European aerospace industry at the Airbus Training Centre. Combine the past and the future with a trip through the historic buildings of the University of Toulouse I.
Toulouse is known for the pink bricks of its terracotta buildings. See the extraordinary Capitole de Toulouse and the Basilica of St. Sernin, which looms over the Place Saint-Sernin.
Head into the western outskirts to reach the glorious Castle Lareole and admire the striped pattern of its façade. Wander through the pleasant grounds and study the artworks of the exhibits.
On the other side of Toulouse are the Chateau de Thégra and the Chateau de Bonrepos-Riquet. Head southwest to reach the spectacular Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges Cathedral that commands a view of one of the most beautiful villages in France.
Venture into the countryside and admire the waterfall and green hills near Oô Lake, which freezes over in winter. Zoom down the slopes of some of the region’s ski resorts, including Bourg d’Oueil and Peyragudes.
The department is on the Spanish border in the southwestern corner of France. Fly to the Toulouse-Blagnac Airport and travel around by train or car. Explore the area to see surrounding departments, including Hautes-Pyrénées, Ariège and Aude.
