From Sea to Preserved Mountains: Occitanie Like You’ve Never Seen It

In partnership with CTRL Occitanie; cover photo credit: Dominique VIET - CRTL Occitanie

Occitanie, the ‘Land of the Tolosates’, is renowned for the authenticity of its sea and mountain landscapes. Its nickname reflects a rich history shaped by the Roman Empire and Catalan influences. Over time, the region has preserved both its cultural heritage and the natural beauty of its surroundings. Let’s explore some lesser-known, unspoilt places that capture the authentic charm of this southern French region. Discovering these hidden gems promotes responsible travel by easing pressure on overcrowded sites and supporting local communities. By stepping off the beaten path, we embrace slow travel, moving in harmony with local rhythms, reducing our impact on resources, and enjoying more meaningful, authentic experiences.

The most beautiful hiking trails in the Occitan mountains

In Occitanie, the mountains are a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. Among these unspoilt gems, the Pic du Midi is a must-see. Rising to 2,877 metres, this ‘balcony of the Pyrenees’ offers breathtaking views across the mountain range.

Looking for a challenge?

The old postmen’s trail, the Sentier des 4000 Marches, leads from Valleraugue to the summit of Mont Aigoual, the highest point in the Gard, in the heart of the Cévennes. This iconic route winds through forests and rugged terrain, offering an intense and unforgettable hiking experience.

Great Hikes Come with Great Responsibility

Adventure seekers who love long hikes will be drawn to the GR10, a long-distance trail linking Hendaye to Banyuls-sur-Mer, crossing landscapes as wild as they are varied. This route reveals the full diversity of the Pyrenees, from lush valleys to dizzying peaks.

Exploring Nature, in Search of Oneself

Crossing the Pyrenees on the Way of Saint James is an essential journey for both body and mind. Starting at the Roncevaux Pass, winding trails lead you through magnificent landscapes, steep ridges, deep valleys, and breathtaking panoramas await.

This journey takes you through dense forests and high-altitude pastures, where every climb is rewarded with spectacular views. The pure air and unspoilt surroundings make this an essential stop for travellers seeking a deeper, more meaningful route.

Explore Occitania between the sea and the mountains

Finally, the Albères Massif, nestled between the sea and the mountains, offers lesser-known but equally spectacular trails. Bordering the Mediterranean, this range marks the meeting point between Pyrenean nature and the Mediterranean climate. Hikers will enjoy unique panoramas, from wooded ridges to breathtaking sea views.

Enjoy the beach away from the crowds

Like the Albères mountains, where the sea meets the peaks, the unspoilt beaches of Occitanie offer landscapes that are both wild and serene, far from mass tourism and aligned with a more responsible way of travelling.

On the beach of the Impressionists

As you travel along the Vermeille Coast in the Pyrénées-Orientales, take time to visit Collioure, voted France’s favourite village in 2024, and explore its picturesque coves.

The Catalan colours of the city, the endless blue of the sea, and the wild charm of the coastline make it clear why Collioure is known as La Cité des Peintres, the City of Painters. Having inspired great artists like Matisse and Picasso, this enchanting place transports you to paradise, without ever leaving France.

The beaches in the colours of Occitania

The Hérault invites you to explore its unusual, protected beaches. On the southwestern shores of Lake Salagou, a unique landscape awaits adventurous hikers. Perched on a rocky hill known as Les Ruffes stands a striking natural formation, a majestic block of red rock.

This remnant of an ancient volcanic chimney, known as the Neck de la Roque, offers exceptional panoramic views over Lake Salagou. From here, the sight of the lake’s sparkling waters and the surrounding hills is simply breathtaking. Steeped in geological history, this unique and protected site is a perfect spot to pause, reflect, and enjoy a nature break after a rewarding hike.

La Conque, jewel of the Mediterranean

Our tour of the Hérault’s surprising beaches continues with a stop at the Grande Conque. Just a stone’s throw from Agde, and far from the hustle and bustle of tourism, this black sand beach offers the perfect escape.

Unique and unusual, this sea-carved cove features a small black sand beach where turquoise waters contrast beautifully with volcanic cliffs. La Grande Conque is a place steeped in history, a witness to both terrestrial and underwater eruptions that predate human presence, and it has preserved its authentic charm.

The preserved and authentic mountains and beaches of Occitania reflect the spirit of responsible tourism we promote at Teritoria, where every step is an invitation to contemplate and respect nature. Travelling means discovering exceptional places, but it also carries a responsibility. Every site you visit and every trail you follow is fragile. Let’s protect these spaces by respecting nature, cultural heritage, and local communities. Leave no trace, take your rubbish with you, and adopt environmentally responsible behaviour.

Together, let’s make travel a responsible act, so future generations can also enjoy the beauty of these unique places.

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