Occitania

Bathed in sunshine, this southern and largely rural region draws several million tourists each year in search of sunshine, relaxation or green tourism....

It has several villages classified as among the most beautiful in France, but also to the Pyrenees mountain chain and the Spanish border (to the south-west). It is also bounded by the Massif Central to the north. Its Mediterranean climate and fine vineyards produce world-renowned wines, particularly in the areas around Béziers and Narbonne. Subject to the Mistral and Tramontane winds, it offers generous amounts of sunshine all year long, which counts as the top tourist destination favoured by Parisians. It is a land of tradition and terroir that has also developed a strong offering in terms of the arts, theatre and festivals. Toulouse, its principal city, boasts a remarkably youthful, lively and student population and also serves as the region's economic motor. Its landscapes are varied, ranging from the high altitudes of the Pyrenees mountains to the plains and plateaus of the north.