Explore the streets, history and tranquility of one of the most beautiful villages in southwest France.
When I came to this picturesque little village, classified as one of the most beautiful in France, I was enchanted by its quiet environment, its peaceful atmosphere and the colors of its little streets.
As you walk through its streets, you stop at every detail: the stone facades, the flowers adorning the windows and that sense of peace that seems to envelop the whole place.
In the center of the village, the main square is the beating heart of Castelnau. Arriving there, you are overcome by a wonderful feeling, as if time has stopped. The terraced cafés invite you to sit and enjoy the moment.
From the top of the village, the panoramic views of the fields and vineyards leave you speechless, a perfect postcard that invites you to dream and get lost in the beauty of the French landscape. The views stretching towards the surrounding hills are STRAIGHT OUT OF A MOVIE.
Did you know ? Castelnau-de-Montmiral is one of the so-called castelnaux, a type of village that developed during the Middle Ages in France.
These villages arose around a castle or fortress (hence the name, castelnau literally means “new castle”). They were built and controlled by feudal lords, who established a community around the castle for protection and also as a center of administration and power.
The word castel comes from “castle” and nau means “new” in Occitan. It is common to see village names in the south of France with Occitan roots, as this language was very influential in the region.
ℹ️ Population : 1046 inhabitants. Source INSEE
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How to get to Castelnau-de-Montmiral
Travelling to France by Train: Comfort, Speed and Sustainability
Opting for the train as a means of transport is not only an environmentally responsible choice, but also an unrivalled opportunity to immerse yourself in the European landscapes while travelling quickly and comfortably. Thanks to SNCF’s extensive rail network, you can connect directly to iconic destinations such as Montpellier or Nîmes, directly from Spain, ensuring a hassle-free arrival to the region’s gems.
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Nearest TGV station : Toulouse 70 km away
From Toulouse to Castelnau-de-Montmiral by car
From Toulouse to Castelnau-de-Montmiral by car, the trip takes just over an hour and allows you to immerse yourself in the rural landscapes of southwestern France.
I have made a short itinerary from Toulouse and I arrived in this little village, from another very close : Cordes-sur-Ciel before returning, and I confess that the road is charming.
If you are coming from Toulouse, the drive will take you through rolling hills, stunning sunflower fields and endless vineyards, making every kilometer truly postcard perfect.
As you approach Castelnau-de-Montmiral, the small roads wind through forests and medieval villages, gradually revealing the charm of the region. It’s impossible not to enjoy the journey!
Achieve maximum immersion
in French culture
Here’s a playlist to listen to while driving these routes
The Magic of Driving in France
Once in France, traveling by car has become the preferred option for many. Not only for the convenience it provides, but also for the freedom it gives to marvel at picturesque landscapes and make impromptu stops.
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Additionally, while traveling along the charming French roads, what better company than a good playlist? You can find the special playlist I’ve prepared for you at the end of this page.
A Local’s Guide to Driving in France as a Tourist Are you coming to France as a tourist and plan to drive? You do very well. I always recommend exploring…
The best accommodations in Castelnau-de-Montmiral. My Selection
The Comparator of the accommodations in Castelnau-de-Montmiral
Accommodation | Rating | Pool | Price | Book Now |
La Roulotte du Tonnelier | 10 / 10 | From 117 € | ||
Les Portes de Castelnau | 9,8 / 10 | From 107 € | ||
La Petite Toscane | 9 / 10 | Yes | From 239 € | |
Casa Guillarmou | 10 / 10 | Yes | From 488 € |
La Roulotte du Tonnelier
It is a quaint wooden wagon refurbished to offer you charming accommodations, perfect for those looking for a quiet experience surrounded by nature.
With garden views and a cozy atmosphere, this mountain chalet is ideal for a relaxing getaway and is an excellent starting point for exploring the region.
In addition, its private and peaceful setting allows you to enjoy total relaxation, surrounded by idyllic landscapes of the French southwest.
- Hydromassage
- Garden, Barbecue
- Wi Fi
- Private parking
▶Rates per night from 117 € 👉 CLICK TO BOOK
Les Portes de Castelnau
It is an impeccable, fully renovated and equipped typical village house located in the very heart of the village. Offering you a genuine local experience overnight.
▶Rates per night from 107 € 👉 CLICK TO BOOK
La Petite Toscane
Beautiful cottage in the middle of the countryside, 4 bedrooms fully equipped.
- Swimming pool, Jacuzzi and hydromassage
- Sun terrace
- Wi fi
- Private parking
▶Rates per night from 239 € 👉 CLICK NOW TO BOOK – It gets busy fast!
Rent a house nearby: The Perfect Option for Families
If you are looking for an intimate and personalised experience, especially if you are travelling with family or a large group, renting a whole house can be the perfect solution. Not only does it give you the comfort of feeling at home, but it also offers you the opportunity to live like a local, cook your own meals and have communal spaces to share unforgettable moments.
Abritel is the leading platform in France for vacation home rentals and is my trusted platform for vacation home bookings.
Whether I am looking for a rustic villa with a pool, a modern house in the city center or a traditional country house, I always find in Abritel an option that perfectly fits what I need. I invite you to discover it for yourself and experience something unique from the comfort of a home chosen especially for you.
👉 CLICK HERE TO STAY IN A HOUSE LIKE THIS ONE
What to do in Castelnau-de-Montmiral
Family activities. My Selection
The first thing I suggest you do in Castelnau-de-Montmiral is to get lost in its charming little streets and enjoy the charm of its half-timbered buildings with ocher bricks, which give it that style so characteristic of the villages of the region.
Strolling aimlessly, you will be able to contemplate how the inhabitants take care of every detail, decorating in such a colorful way the facades and windows of their little houses. Hanging flowers, hand-painted shutters and small details fill every corner with life, creating a picturesque atmosphere that invites you to walk slowly, stop and simply enjoy the beauty of the place.
Visit the Place des Arcades
I loved this square. It is one of the most beautiful I have seen in France. It is not necessarily very large or spectacular, but its beauty, in my opinion, also lies in that.
Its characteristic pink buildings stand out with their exposed wooden beams and, of course, the cistern that adorns the center of the square, an element that transports you even more emphatically to medieval times, reminding you of the importance that water fountains had in the daily life of the inhabitants.
This square is the center of typical local events such as the market, fairs or festivals.
The farmers’ market : Tuesdays from 8 am to 12:30 pm. If you are nearby, I strongly recommend you to come and take advantage of the producers’ market that takes place all year long at the Place des Arcades.
Vignobles de Gaillac: A sensory journey through the cradle of French wine
Plongez dans l’essence de l’Occitanie en visitant les vignobles de Gaillac, une expérience enrichissante qui allie la culture, l’histoire et l’art sublime de la viticulture. Au cours de cette visite, vous découvrirez les secrets de fabrication de certains des vins les plus typiques de France, tout en appréciant le charme et la beauté des paysages ruraux. L’excursion comprend :
- Guided walk through the vineyards
- Wine Tasting
- Visit to a local winery
- Gourmet break with local delicacies such as cheeses and cold meats
More experiences nearby to live with the family
Between Castles and Rivers: Canoeing through the Medieval Heart of France
Rent canoes at Escapado Penne and immerse yourself in the perfect adventure in the heart of southwestern France with an exciting canoe trip through the picturesque Gorges de l’Aveyron. The base is conveniently located at the foot of the charming medieval village of Penne, providing an ideal starting point for exploring the serene waters of the Aveyron River.
This activity is not just a simple canoe ride; it is a complete immersion in a spectacular natural landscape. As you paddle along the river, you will be surrounded by impressive limestone formations and meanders that cut deep into the landscape, creating a magical and secluded environment. The crystal clear waters of the river invite you to unwind and relax while observing the rich biodiversity of the area.
The canoe trip also offers you the opportunity to admire the local flora and fauna, preserved and abundant, from dragonflies dancing on the water to birds nesting high on the cliffs. In addition, the route is a living history and architecture lesson, passing through the ancient villages of Saint Antonin Noble Val, Penne with its imposing cathare castle, and Bruniquel, each offering unique views and perspectives that are both educational and exhilarating.
You have three great courses to choose from, designed to suit a variety of abilities and desires, ensuring that everyone from beginners to experienced paddlers can find the perfect route to suit their expectations and skill level.
Paddling the Gorges de l’Aveyron is truly an enchanting and exciting way to connect with the nature, history and culture of southwestern France, making this activity a perfect choice for families or groups of friends looking for an authentic and memorable experience. Get ready for a day full of beauty, serenity and adventure in one of the most beautiful corners of the country.
Explore and Play: A Full Day of Family Recreation at the Lake
At Base de Loisirs VERE GRESIGNE, enjoy a day full of fun and outdoor activities in a space designed for the whole family to enjoy. The supervised swimming area is perfect for relaxing and having fun in safety, offering a water slide for thrill-seekers and a specially adapted area for the little ones. In addition, the nautical area invites you to explore the tranquil lakes with pedalos, canoes and kayaks for rent, perfect for those looking for gentle adventures on the water.
For those who prefer land-based activities, the resort offers tennis courts, a miniature golf course and a challenging orienteering park that will test your sailing skills. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy their sport (under APPMA regulations, needing a fishing permit to participate).
After an active day, relax at the bar with its cozy terrace overlooking the lakes, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink in a serene environment. This destination is ideal for a memorable family day, combining sport, relaxation and adventure in one place.
ℹ️ Entry from €3.90
Loisirs VERE GRESIGNE Base
2919 Route de Caussade “Plane Selve” 81140 CASTELNAU de MONTMIRAL
The gastronomy in Castelnau-de-Montmiral
The gastronomy of Castelnau-de-Montmiral reflects the best of traditional southwestern French cuisine. In this charming little village, local products are the protagonists.
What you should eat here:
- Foie Gras
- Artisanal cheeses
- Saucisson
- Magret de canard
- Cassoulet
All this, accompanied by the local wines of the Gaillac region, make any meal an unforgettable experience. The small restaurants in the village invite you to enjoy this authentic cuisine, always with fresh and quality products.
A true feast for the senses!
When I came here, I ate at L’Auberge des Arcades. Here you eat very well, with delicious and generous dishes, in a charming setting, right on the Place des Arcades, surrounded by the medieval atmosphere of the village.
They propose a meal of local products at a very affordable price. You can calculate about 20/25 € with drinks included, which makes this an ideal option to enjoy the local gastronomy with the family and without spending too much.
The weather in Castelnau-de-Montmiral
The climate of Castelnau-de-Montmiral is typically Mediterranean, with warm, sunny summers, ideal for enjoying its landscapes and cobblestone streets, while winters are mild, with little rain and pleasant temperatures. Spring and autumn offer a fresh and colorful atmosphere, perfect for walking around and admiring the views of the fields and vineyards that surround the village.
CASTELNAU-DE-MONTMIRAL La méteoCharming villages near Castelnau-de-Montmiral
Puycelsi
Puycelsi is a small fortified village perched on a rocky promontory on the edge of the Grésigne forest. This village, included in the list of the most beautiful villages in France, is surrounded by imposing ramparts dating back to the 14th century. Puycelsi is known for its tranquility, its breathtaking views of the forest and its vineyards, and its streets full of history, where every corner tells a part of the past.
Penne
Penne is known for its ruins of an imposing castle that stands on a steep rock, offering dramatic views of the Aveyron river valley. Dating back to the 11th century, the castle was an important defensive post during the Middle Ages and has been the scene of numerous battles over the centuries. The village itself is a maze of narrow streets and stone-built houses, evoking times of yore and attracting those interested in medieval history and architecture.
Nearby villages to visit: The Map
One of the great attractions of travelling to France is the proximity of its many charms.
In each region, there is not only one treasure to discover, but a multitude of them. And all very close to each other.
So, once you have explored the particular charm of a village, there are always more waiting for you nearby.
The history of Castelnau-de-Montmiral
A brief introduction
Castelnau-de-Montmiral was founded in 1222 by Count Raymond VII of Toulouse, as part of the rise of the medieval bastides, those fortified villages built to protect their inhabitants and ensure the control of the territories of southwestern France. Situated on top of a hill, its strategic position gave it a privileged view of the surrounding area, making it an important bastion for defense. This location not only strengthened the security of its inhabitants, but also gave it a crucial role in the war events that marked the history of the region.
During the Hundred Years’ War, Castelnau-de-Montmiral was the scene of intense fighting between French and English troops. The region was a key battlefield in this conflict, and the town, with its ramparts and castle, played an important role in the defense of the territory. Despite repeated attacks, Castelnau resisted thanks to its fortifications, although the war left scars on its structure and population. With the end of the conflict, the town resumed its daily life, although its war history was far from over.
The castle, a symbol of feudal power in the region, remained standing for centuries, until the final blow came during the French Revolution. Like many other symbols of the Ancien Régime, the castle of Castelnau was destroyed by the revolutionaries in an act of rejection of the nobility and the feudal system. Despite the loss of the castle, the village has managed to preserve its medieval essence and today remains one of the most beautiful villages in France, where visitors can stroll through its streets and discover its rich and turbulent history.
Dear reader,
This article has been written by me, Diego, who has been living in France for a few years and traveling this beautiful country for many more! And it is inspired by my experiences and the tastes of me and my family.
I love to show you the charming villages of France and all there is to do here and I know that many times the organization of a trip can be complicated. That’s why, through my guides, I try to inspire you and help you in your planning.
I hope you have enjoyed reading this article and, above all, that it has been useful.
If you found this travel guide useful and want to thank me, you can now invite me to a virtual coffee!
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