Stretching from the high peaks of the Pyrenees, along the Canal du Midi and the Garonne River’s valleys for almost 200 kilometres, gorgeous Haute-Garonne was one of the 83 departments created during the French Revolution. Made up of land which previously belonged to the Languedoc, this is a hugely scenic part of south-western France. Much of the action is centred around bustling Toulouse, but some of the best places to stay in Haute-Garonne are restored farmhouse B&Bs hidden in rural tranquil villages.

Dubbed ‘The Pink City’, Toulouse is a sensational destination for business or leisure. France’s fourth-largest city, this buzzy metropolis boasts a beautiful Old Town filled with Renaissance architecture, some top-notch museums and a lively evening scene, encouraged by the large student population. Toulouse is also a leader in aerospace engineering; La Cité de l'Espace museum is perfect for aviation enthusiasts.

History buffs will also love the Haute Garonne’s plethora of pretty market towns — Revel, Aurignac, Arbas and Salies-du-Salat included. Saint-Félix-Lauragais stands out with its 14th-century church and hilltop castle, whilst Saint-Bertrand-du-Comminges has a reputation for being one of the most beautiful villages in France. The town’s Sainte Marie Cathedral is spectacular, as is the Romanesque Saint-Just Basilica in nearby Valcabrère.

Beyond the region’s towns lie rugged mountains, the rolling hills of the Comminges and the sun-drenched plains which surround Toulouse. Keen hikers, horse riders and cyclists will find challenging trails aplenty. Float along the Canal du Midi, a striking feat of 17th-century engineering, or hone your kayaking and fishing skills on the Garonne River. Return to one of the best places to stay in the Haute Garonne for characterful rooms and suites, delectable eateries and quirky design.

The Best Places to Stay in Haute-Garonne

For a Design Hotel

• L'Hôtel des Beaux Arts is housed in Toulouse's former fine arts school. Carefully restored rooms have been individually designed, offering a spectrum of contemporary and classic styles, with bold artwork. Brilliant for design aficionados, the hotel also has a very good restaurant and free bikes for hire. A chic boutique base.
• Hôtel Du Grand Balcon has sleek guest rooms with modernist paintings, high-tech touches and a nod to the magic of air travel. A luxurious design hotel by architect Jean-Philippe Nuel in a 1930s brick building, this is a top spot for romantic couples and well-heeled travellers. On Toulouse's Place du Capitole.

For Classic Charm

• Grand Hotel de L'Opera, opposite the Théâtre du Capitole and close to designer boutiques in Toulouse, was once a medieval college. It has been transformed into a heritage hotel with elegant rooms and suites, two glamorous restaurants and a soothing spa. For fans of classic style.

For Groups in the City

• Atout Carmes in Toulouse has two contemporary suites, each with self-catering facilities. Ideal for small groups of friends or family travelling together, the suites each have two bedrooms. Breakfasts are served in the dining room each morning. A lovely choice for those planning a longer stay in Toulouse.
• Mama Shelter Toulouse, tucked in a former Toulouse cinema, is a fabulous choice for fun-loving travellers. Sociable individuals or groups will love the inviting shared spaces, including a buzzy rooftop bar, convivial eatery and cinema room. Small, well-designed rooms feature illuminated headboards and monochrome geometric carpets. Great fun.

For a Farmhouse Escape

• Domaine de Gailhaguet is a beautiful restored farmhouse offering five charming bedrooms with pretty wooden headboards and bright pops of colour. This rustic chic spot also boasts a house and gîte for families and groups, plus fabulous events spaces for weddings. Expect bountiful breakfasts and verdant gardens. A wonderful retreat.

For Great Value

• Hotel Ibis Styles Toulouse Capitole is right alongside Toulouse's Place du Capitole. A rose-brick 17th-century townhouse transformed into a smart city hotel, this is a top spot for business or leisure travellers looking for modern amenities and affordable prices in a central location.
• Hotel Albert 1er is a family-run 3-star hotel with a friendly team. Set just 100 metres from the Place du Capitole in Toulouse, it's well-located for on-foot explorations, but there are also bikes for hire and restaurant recommendations aplenty. Enjoy big breakfasts and relax in comfortable, well-appointed rooms. A classic, well-priced choice.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Toulouse Blagnac Airport, and journey on from there. Alternatively, travel by train from other French hubs; the TGV from Paris to Toulouse takes just under five hours. Arrange a pickup from Toulouse's airport or railway station, or travel by bus or taxi to your destination.
• Haute-Garonne is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car. If you're exploring solely within the city, public transport, pedestrianised zones and cycle lanes make having a car unnecessary.
• Travel during the spring or summer for the best weather, with temperatures ranging between 20 and 28°C from June to August. May or September-October are ideal for quieter trips. Avoid the school holidays and peak summer if you can; this is easily the busiest time of year in the region.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Toulouse.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the nearby Dordogne.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Haute-Garonne