Haute Garonne

Looking for the perfect destination for your next vacation? Discover the Haute Garonnea department of the region Occitanie promises breathtaking discoveries in a variety of landscapes, cultural riches and leisure activities.

Whether your passion is history, nature, gastronomy, or science, Haute-Garonne is sure to meet all your expectations. Let us guide you through this multifaceted department for an unforgettable adventure.

Architectural and historical nuggets in Haute Garonne

Haute-Garonne shines with its rich heritage heritage architectural and historical, reflecting a diverse past. Discover must-see sites for art and history enthusiasts.

Saint-Sernin Basilica, Toulouse

Built at the end of the 11th century, the Basilica of Saint-Sernin stands out as the largest Romanesque church in Europe and a treasure trove of medieval art. It was built to house the relics of Saint Saturninus, the first bishop of Toulouse and a 3rd-century martyr.

Registered with UNESCO World Heritage SiteWith its brick-and-stone facade, octagonal bell tower, radiating chapels, imposing nave and choir with carved choir stalls, the basilica is a sight to behold. The basilica's treasures, including the gold reliquary of Saint Saturnin, are also not to be missed.

Château de Laréole

Built in the 16th century for Pierre de Cheverry, a prosperous merchant, by architect Dominique Bachelier, the Château de Laréole is a remarkable example of French Renaissance architecture. Its design, which combines brick and stone, creates a unique visual effect.

Surrounded by 25 hectares of grounds that include a French-style garden, an orchard, and a vegetable garden, the château is now managed by the Haute-Garonne Departmental Council, which organizes contemporary art exhibitions and performances there.

Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges Cathedral

Located at the foot of the Pyrenees, the Cathedral of Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges—also known as Sainte-Marie Cathedral—served as the seat of the Diocese of Comminges until the 19th century. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it features a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural styles.

Visit the cloister, with its monumental organ, inlaid wooden choir stalls, stuffed crocodile and Evangelist pillar. Don't miss the panoramic view over the valley from the forecourt.

Saint-Martory, Cazères and Martres Tolosane along the Garonne River

Explore the charm of Saint-Martory, Cazères and Martres Tolosane, three picturesque villages along the Garonne River. Saint-Martory, a 13th-century bastide, boasts half-timbered houses, a medieval bridge and a 17th-century château.

Cazères, with its Gothic church, river port, and lake, is perfect for water sports. Martres Tolosane, known for its art and history, is home to the ruins of a Roman villa, a Romanesque church, and famous pottery workshops.

These villages are linked by the Via Garona, a cycle route that winds along the river.

2. Natural areas and outdoor activities

Haute-Garonne is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a stunning natural setting. The Pyrenees, with their breathtaking landscapes, are perfect for hiking, skiing, paragliding, and rafting.

Lake Oô, a magnificent glacial lake surrounded by mountains, promises tranquility and beauty. The Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, runs through the department and is perfect for bike rides, boat trips, or simply relaxing while admiring its locks and bridges. Forest adventure parks, featuring tree-top courses, zip lines, and other fun activities, as well as the Saint-Béat-Lez Valley—rich in cultural, culinary, and natural attractions—await you for unforgettable experiences.

Lake Oô and Hiking in the Pyrenees

Lake Oô, located in the Pyrenees, is a 42-hectare artificial lake known for its accessibility and its spectacular 275-meter-high waterfall. A starting point for hikes, it is also a stop on the GR10 trail. For more experienced hikers, the lakes of Espingo, Portillon, and Tusse de Montarqué offer exceptional panoramic views of the mountains.

TEPACAP! RIEUMES: Forest Adventure Park

For the past 24 years, TEPACAP! RIEUMES has been entertaining visitors with its tree-top adventure courses and outdoor games spread across 8 hectares. Located near Toulouse, this park offers activities for all ages, including safe high-altitude games for young children and thrilling courses for teens and adults. In addition to outdoor activities, the park features a connected adventure game and an intimate karaoke room.

The Canal du Midi by bike

The Canal du Midi, a 17th-century structure designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, connects the Garonne River to the Mediterranean Sea. Perfect for bike rides, its 235-km route follows old towpaths and winds through varied landscapes, while offering visitors the chance to explore a rich architectural heritage.

Pyrenees getaway: the Saint-Béat-Lez valley

The Saint-Béat-Lez Valley, near Spain, is a top destination for lovers of culture, nature, fine dining, and adventure. Visit the Saint-Béat Treasury, explore the Melles Botanical Garden, and enjoy activities such as hiking, canyoning, and rafting. Be sure to sample the local specialties for a complete experience.

3. Culture, science and leisure

Haute-Garonne stands out for its diverse and high-quality cultural, scientific, and recreational offerings. Explore fascinating museums such as the Cité de l’Espace in Toulouse, which immerses you in astronomy and space exploration, the Aurignacian Museum in Aurignac, which reveals traces of the region’s earliest inhabitants, or the Pastel Museum in Magrin, which uncovers the history and secrets of this dye plant. You can also enjoy festivals celebrating comics, music, theater, and dance, such as the Colomiers Comic Book Festival, the “31 Notes d’Été” Festival, or the Ramonville Contemporary Dance Festival.

Have fun at a forest adventure park featuring tree-top obstacle courses, zip lines, slides, inflatable games, karaoke, and a connected adventure game.

The Cité de l’espace in Toulouse

The Cité de l’espace, a science center focused on space and space exploration, is located in Toulouse. Opened in June 1997, it covers 5 hectares. Discover interactive exhibits, models, and full-scale spacecraft, such as the Ariane 5 rocket, the Soyuz module, and the Mir space station. Attend shows, activities, lectures, and screenings on giant screens, particularly at the planetarium, the IMAX theater, or the Stellarium. You can also participate in workshops, simulations, and games that offer a glimpse into the experiences of astronauts.

Festivals: COLOMIERS COMIC BOOK FESTIVAL, 31 NOTES D’ÉTÉ FESTIVAL – DONNEVILLE

Haute-Garonne is home to a multitude of festivals that showcase artistic creation in various forms. The Colomiers Comic Book Festival, held every November, celebrates independent comics, featuring meet-and-greets with authors, publishers, and collectives, as well as exhibitions and workshops. The “31 Notes d’Été” festival, taking place from August 2 to 31, features performances and concerts by local artists, sightseeing tours, and exhibitions. This free and eco-friendly event invites visitors to explore the towns and villages of Haute-Garonne.

A tour of the Aurignacian Museum and in search of “blue gold”: pastel

Visit the Aurignacian Museum in Aurignac to explore the remains of Europe’s first modern humans, dating back 35,000 years. Also discover the prehistoric site of Aurignac, where artifacts from the Aurignacian period were found. Follow in the footsteps of “blue gold”—pastel, the plant that enriched the region in the 16th century thanks to its use for dyeing fabrics blue. The Pastel Museum in Magrin introduces you to the history, secrets, and medicinal and cosmetic uses of pastel. You can also admire the historic mansions and castles that bear witness to the splendor of the pastel merchants.

The TOULOUSE MAGIC FOREST and activities for families

Haute-Garonne offers fun activities for the whole family. The Magical Forest of Toulouse, located at the Domaine de Pontié in Cornebarrieu, offers an immersive adventure lasting about 2 hours, featuring magical quests, puzzles, and fantastical encounters. Enjoy tree-top adventure courses, zip lines, slides, inflatable games, karaoke, and a connected adventure game. Also check out the African Safari Zoo in Plaisance-du-Touch, the Tépacap amusement park in Rieumes, and the Prehistory Park in Tarascon-sur-Ariège for a glimpse into the lives of prehistoric people.

Haute Garonne - Conclusion

It's clear that Haute-Garonne is a destination of choice, capable of captivating every visitor. If you’re looking for enriching experiences—whether cultural, natural, culinary, or adrenaline-fueled—Haute-Garonne is sure to meet your expectations.

Explore exceptional sites such as the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, the Château de Laréole, and the Cathedral of Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges. Immerse yourself in the beauty of its iconic natural landscapes, such as Lake Oô, the Canal du Midi, and the picturesque Saint-Béat-Lez Valley. Enjoy a wide variety of activities offered by the region’s museums, festivals, and adventure parks, such as the Cité de l’Espace, the Colomiers Comic Book Festival, and the Magical Forest of Toulouse. For expert advice and personalized recommendations, be sure to check out the reviews on TripAdvisor from those who have already explored Haute-Garonne.

When it comes to accommodations, Toploc offers a selection of hotels in Haute-Garonne that combine quality with great rates. Why wait any longer to discover the wonders of Haute-Garonne?

Haute Garonne - FAQ

When is the best time to visit Haute-Garonne?

The best time to explore Haute-Garonne depends on your interests. For those who love the Pyrenees region, the months of June through September offer the perfect setting for mountain activities and exploring nature. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to the Midi-Toulousain region, visit between May and October to enjoy pleasant weather and a rich array of cultural and festive events.

What means of transport are available to get around Haute-Garonne?

To get around Haute-Garonne, you have several options, including the metro, tram, buses, and bike-sharing services, all of which are part of the Tisséo network that serves Toulouse and its surrounding areas. The department is also served by regional and national trains connecting major cities, not to mention taxis and electric car rental options.

What are the culinary specialities of Haute-Garonne?

Haute-Garonne is known for its rich and diverse culinary specialties, made with local ingredients such as duck, goose, garlic, cheese, and beans. Among the must-try dishes, be sure to try cassoulet, Toulouse sausage, goose foie gras, pétéram from Luchon, Luchon pistachios, and apple croustade.

What historic and cultural sites are not to be missed in Haute-Garonne?

Haute-Garonne is brimming with historical and cultural treasures. In Toulouse, nicknamed the “Pink City,” be sure to visit the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, the Capitole, the Jacobins Convent, and the Cité de l’Espace. The Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers picturesque walks, bike rides, or boat trips. Don’t miss the medieval town of Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, with its Gothic cathedral and Roman ruins. Finally, the Château de Laréole, a Renaissance gem, hosts performances and exhibitions in its French-style park during the summer.