Embrace the concept of slow tourism in Occitanie on a peaceful cruise along the Canal du Midi, a masterpiece of world heritage, and an adventure for families through the Verdouble Gorges, where nature and local heritage come together for an authentic, unforgettable trip.
1/ Le Perchoir du Quercy ecolodge
Le Perchoir du Quercy, Chemin des Boulbènes, Montcuq-en-Quercy-Blanc, France
Le Perchoir du Quercy is an environmentally friendly holiday gite in Montcuq that is run by a family that abides by this sustainable lifestyle. Wooden construction, electricity and water supplied by renewable energy sources, no single-use plastics, recycling, zero-waste products. This is the ideal place to enjoy nature and visit the villages of the Tarn. Things to do in the area: hiking, farmer’s markets and much more. Are you dreaming of some me time? Relax in the private Nordic bath and just admire the view.
2/ Carcassonne on horseback
Carcassonne, France
Just live for the moment on a horse ride for the day across the valleys and the Corbières foothills in the Pays d’Aude. With Terre Equestre, you’ll be stopping at lunchtime in front of the Porte Narbonnaise in Carcassonne, at the foot of the keeps, in the gardens of the Pont Levis hotel. The children will feel like knights for the day. And maybe even the parents will too. Get the most out of this experience by then exploring the city on foot, wandering around the shops and the historic city centre. There are two unmissable events there in July: Carcassonne festival and the fireworks’ display.
3/ The Verdouble Gorges
Gorges du Verdouble, Tautavel, France
It’s a wonderful experience in summer swimming in the lake and the Moulin de Ribaute waterfalls. A footpath then leads you through the gorges, 1 km from the village of Duihac-sous-Peyrepertuse and the impressive castle there. Perfect for families: there is an on-duty lifeguard so you can swim in complete safety and there are picnic tables for lunch in the great outdoors. It is possible to get there by car, bike or on foot.
4/ The ‘manades’ of Camargue
Camargue, France
The herds of horses and bulls roam around these traditional farms freely and play a key role in the region’s traditions. The Manade du Rhône boasts 200 ha of pastures and between 150 and 200 animals depending on the births that year. Come and explore this fascinating place in the wilderness as a family. The bulls at the Manade du Rhône are only used for the traditional Course Camarguaise, from March to October. You might just run into some local champions such as Lavandin, Banaru or Chardon…
5/ The village of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
int-Cirq-Lapopie, France
Plunge into the Middle Ages as you explore the village of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, perched up on a cliff overlooking the Lot. On a walking tour, you’ll be guided by a tour guide in period clothing, who will reveal to you all the secrets and legends of this exceptional place. Wander around the cobbled streets and you’ll come across the arts & crafts workshops where ancient expert know-how is passed on through the generations. Admire the half-timbered houses and ruins of the fortifications that tell the story of the village’s eventful past. The tour lasts for around 1.5 hours and will captivate both adults and children over the age of 8. Meet in front of the Saint-Cirq-Lapopie Tourist Office to begin this historic adventure!
6/ The Canal du Midi by boat
Canal du Midi, France
Embark on an adventure, one lock at a time along the Canal du Midi, listed as a World Heritage Site. This canal stretches from Toulouse to Sète, and then flows into the Mediterranean Sea.
It is possible to hire a boat with or without a captain for this sort of experience. For just a few hours, a weekend or several days, the choice is yours! You can stop off whenever and wherever you like along the way. All you need is a good pair of shoes or bikes to be able to explore the area once you’re on dry land.
By Margot Pyckaert
Journalist
Margot is an adventurer at heart, and is as keen a writer as she is a traveller.
