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, the Haute-Garonne will meet all your expectations. Let us guide you through this multi-faceted département for an unforgettable adventure.

Architectural and historical nuggets in Haute Garonne

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

Saint-Sernin Basilica, Toulouse

Erected at the end of the 11th century, the Basilica of Saint-Sernin stands out as Europe's largest Romanesque church and a treasure trove of medieval art. It was built to house the relics of Saint Saturnin, 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 prosperous merchant Pierre de Cheverry by architect Dominique Bachelier, Château de Laréole is a remarkable example of the French Renaissance. Its mix of brick and stone design creates a unique visual effect.

Surrounded by 25 hectares of parkland including a formal garden, orchard and kitchen garden, the château is now managed by the Haute-Garonne departmental council, which organizes contemporary art exhibitions and shows.

Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges Cathedral

Located at the foot of the PyreneesThe cathedral of Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, or Cathédrale Sainte-Marie, was the seat of the diocese of Comminges until the 19th century. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, its architecture is a blend of Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance 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, renowned for its art and history, is home to the remains of a Roman villa, a Romanesque church and famous earthenware 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 splendid natural setting. The Pyrenees, with their breathtaking scenery, are perfect for hiking, skiing, paragliding and rafting.

Lac d'Oô, a magnificent glacial lake surrounded by mountains, promises peace and beauty. The Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, crosses the department and lends itself perfectly to bike or boat rides, or to relaxing moments admiring its locks and bridges. Forest adventure parks offering tree climbing, zip lines and other fun activities, as well as the Saint-Béat-Lez valley, rich in cultural, gastronomic and natural discoveries, await you for unforgettable moments.

Lac d'Oô and hiking in the Pyrenees

Lac d'Oô in the Pyrenees is a 42-hectare man-made lake, renowned for its accessibility and spectacular 275 m-high waterfall. A starting point for hikes, it is also a stage on the GR10. For more experienced hikers, the Espingo, Portillon and Tusse de Montarqué lakes offer exceptional mountain views.

TEPACAP ! RIEUMES: forest adventure park

For 24 years, TEPACAP ! RIEUMES has been entertaining visitors with its accrobranche courses and outdoor games on an 8-hectare site. Located near Toulouse, the park offers activities for all ages, including safe high ropes courses for the youngest and thrill courses for teens and adults. In addition to outdoor activities, the park features a connected adventure game and an intimate karaoke bar.

The Canal du Midi by bike

The Canal du Midi, a UNESCO-listed 17th-century work of art, links the Garonne to the Mediterranean. Perfect for cycling, its 235 km route follows ancient towpaths through varied landscapes and a rich architectural heritage.

Pyrenees getaway: the Saint-Béat-Lez valley

The Saint-Béat-Lez valley, close to Spain, is a prime destination for lovers of culture, nature, gastronomy and adventure. Visit the Trésor de Saint-Béat, explore the Jardin Botanique de Melles and enjoy activities such as hiking, canyoning and rafting. And don't forget to sample the local specialities for the full experience.

3. Culture, science and leisure

Haute-Garonne boasts a diverse, high-quality range of cultural, scientific and leisure activities. Explore fascinating museums such as the Cité de l'espace in Toulouse, immersing you in astronomy and space exploration, the Musée de l'Aurignacien in Aurignac, revealing traces of the region's first inhabitants, or the Musée du pastel in Magrin, revealing the history and secrets of this dye-plant. You can also take advantage of festivals celebrating comics, music, theater and dance, such as the Colomiers BD festival, the 31 notes d'été festival or the Ramonville contemporary dance festival.

Have fun in a forest adventure park with ropes courses, zip lines, slides, inflatables, karaoke and a connected adventure game.

The Cité de l'espace in Toulouse

The Cité de l'espace, a scientific cultural center focusing on space and the conquest of space, is located in Toulouse. Inaugurated 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, animations, conferences and giant-screen projections at the planetarium, IMAX or Stellarium. You can also take part in workshops, simulations and games offering a glimpse of the sensations experienced by astronauts.

Festivals: FESTIVAL BD DE COLOMIERS, FESTIVAL 31 NOTES D'ÉTÉ - DONNEVILLE

The Haute-Garonne region is home to a multitude of festivals promoting artistic creation in a variety of forms. The Colomiers BD festival, held every November, celebrates independent comics, offering meetings with authors, publishers and collectives, as well as exhibitions and workshops. The 31 notes d'été festival, running from August 2 to 31, offers performances and concerts by local artists, as well as sightseeing tours and exhibitions. This free, eco-responsible event invites you to explore the towns and villages of Haute-Garonne.

Visit the Aurignacian Museum and follow in the footsteps 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 of Aurignacian art have been found. Follow in the footsteps of blue gold, woad, a plant that enriched the region in the 16th century thanks to its use to dye fabrics blue. The Musée du Pastel in Magrin introduces you to the history, secrets and medicinal and cosmetic uses of woad. 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. La forêt magique de Toulouse, at the Domaine de Pontié in Cornebarrieu, offers an immersive adventure lasting around 2 hours, with magical quests, enigmas and fantastic encounters. You'll also enjoy a rope course, zip lines, slides, inflatable games, karaoke and a connected adventure game. You can also visit the African Safari zoo in Plaisance-du-Touch, the Tépacap leisure park in Rieumes and the Parc de la Préhistoire in Tarascon-sur-Ariège for an insight into the life of prehistoric man.

Haute Garonne - Conclusion

It's clear that Haute-Garonne is a destination of choiceThe Haute-Garonne is the perfect place to visit. If you're looking for enriching experiences, be they cultural, natural, gastronomic or adrenaline-filled, Haute-Garonne will meet your expectations.

Explore exceptional sites such as Saint-Sernin Basilica, Laréole Castle and Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges Cathedral. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the region's emblematic natural spaces, such as Lac d'Oô, the Canal du Midi and the picturesque Saint-Béat-Lez valley. Entertain yourself with a multitude of activities offered by the region's museums, festivals and adventure parks, such as the Cité de l'espace, the Colomiers comic book festival or the Toulouse magic forest. For expert advice and personalized recommendations, don't hesitate to consult the Tripadvisor reviews of those who have already explored Haute-Garonne.

When it comes to accommodation, Toploc offers you a selection of hotels in Haute-Garonne, combining quality with competitive 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 ideal time to explore Haute-Garonne varies according to your interests. For fans of the Pyrenees region, the months of June to September offer the perfect setting for mountain activities and nature discovery. On the other hand, if you're drawn to the Midi-Toulousain region, opt for the period from May to October, with its pleasant climate and rich cultural and festive offering.

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

There are several options for getting around Haute-Garonne, including the metro, tramway, buses and self-service bicycles, all part of the Tisséo network serving Toulouse and the surrounding area. The department is also served by regional and national trains linking the main cities, not to mention cabs and electric car rental options.

What are the culinary specialities of Haute-Garonne?

Haute-Garonne is known for its rich and varied culinary specialties, made from local produce such as duck, goose, garlic, cheese and beans. Among the must-tries are cassoulet, Toulouse sausage, goose foie gras, Luchon peeteram, pistachio and apple croustade.

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

The Haute-Garonne region is packed with historical and cultural treasures. In Toulouse, known as the pink city, don't miss a visit to the Saint-Sernin basilica, 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 and boat trips. Don't miss the medieval town of Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, with its Gothic cathedral and Roman remains. Finally, the Château de Laréole, a jewel of the Renaissance, offers shows and exhibitions in its French park during the summer.