Occitania — The Home of France's Best Villages
- Dan Sarkozi
- Jul 17, 2024
- 2 min read
The Rejuvenation Retreat is located in a land of Knight’s tales, world-renowned cuisine and local customs that began centuries ago.
The best villages in France are in the region of Occitania. The region's Romanesque architecture and preserved historical infrastructure inspired The Guardian to pick two of its communes on its list of the most beautiful villages in France. Some of these villages have remained untouched since the 13th century.
The Remains of Ancient France
The area’s history dates back to the 1st century BCE when it formed the Gaul province of the Roman Empire. Prior to the Roman Empire, the area was known as Aquitania. Whilst the area officially changed its name from Languedoc - Roussillon to Occitania in 2016.
Village Survival
Occitania was the location of the Albigensian Crusade. The crusade was a defining event in the King of France taking ruling the south of France. There are landmark remains of this historical tragedy scattered along the hiking trails of The Rejuvenation Retreat.
Toulouse
Toulouse is the largest city in Occitania. It has a population of around 500,000. Occitania is also known for its cuisine, of which, Toulouse sausage is a key component.
Best Sites: Cité de Carcassonne
This UNESCO World Heritage site contains the oldest human remains in the region, dating back to the 6th century BCE. It was founded by the Romans and restored in the 19th century. Inside, there is a round walk of local shops, eateries, and picnic spots. Outside contains breathtaking views of the region, the neighbouring river Aude, and an opportunity to occupy the tower observatories. This remarkable medieval citadel has been described as a 'real-life Disney castle' and must be experienced to be believed.
Countryside
Occitania's land spans wider than the Republic of Ireland. Yet it has less than 10% of the U.K’s population. This creates a sense of tranquility when gazing over the expanses of sunflower fields, vineyards and medieval castles.
Village Cuisine
Occitania is also known for its cuisine. The most famous dish of the region is called cassoulet. It is a slow coked bean stew consisting of ingredients such as: Toulouse sausage, duck legs, goose fat, pork, and white beans. Cassoulet originated in a commune called Castelnaudary — a commune only ten miles away from The Rejuvenation Retreat.
Village Culture
With the regions rich history of Romans, medieval knights, and royal rebellion, a culture of spectacular horse shows has remained. These shows of knight's duels, steed's feats, and maid's magic are common throughout the region. The Rejuvenation Retreat is home of The Manes of Evol — a leading provider of these shows. The Manes of Evol stables provides horse-riding lessons in both private and groups, to both adults and children.
Must See
In short, Occitania has a deep history which fuels a strong culture of artisans. It has all the usual weather, beauty, and atmosphere of a holiday destination, with an added intellectual stimulus for those who want a little more than sun, sea, and sangria.
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