A Thousand Sparks in Occitanie

The 3 most beautiful Occitan Christmas markets: Castres, Toulouse and Carcassonne

Do you love the festive atmosphere, Christmas markets and culinary delights?

This holiday in Occitanie immerses you in the magic of Christmas, combining traditions, heritage and local specialities.

From Castres to Toulouse and on to Carcassonne, let yourself be swept away by the festive lights, Christmas markets and spectacular displays. From the traditional villages of the Lauragais to foie gras workshops and regional specialities, you’ll enjoy a warm and friendly experience. A festive and gourmet getaway, ideal for a group holiday.

Ideas for a 3-day, 2-night trip to the Christmas markets in Occitanie

Day 1: Castres, the magic of Christmas
Arrival in time for lunch. Free time at the Christmas market. Experience the city’s transformation through the magic of Christmas. At the end of the day, a light show projected onto five iconic landmarks of Castres’ heritage, taking you on a marvellous journey through spectacular visual displays. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 2: Toulouse / Carcassonne – A magical Christmas at the foot of the medieval citadel
Walking tour of the ‘Pink City’: Place du Capitole, the River Garonne, stately homes, bustling streets. Then, the Christmas Market at Place du Capitole with its magical Christmas village. Lunch at the hotel. Carcassonne, where Christmas provides a spectacular backdrop as the magic of the festive season takes hold at the foot of the UNESCO-listed Cité, offering a unique experience blending heritage, enchantment and traditions. Free time to explore the traditional Christmas market, with food stalls and regional crafts. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel. Cabaret evening hosted by the artists of the ‘Cosmo Show’.
Day 3: The bastides of the Lauragais and a foie gras workshop
Montgeard, a prosperous royal bastide in the 16th century during the golden age of pastel painting, with a magnificent, richly decorated church. Then Mazères, a 13th-century bastide that was once the residence of the Counts of Foix, including the famous Gaston Phébus. On the return journey, a cookery workshop focusing on foie gras and festive recipes. A traditional local lunch at the hotel: gizzard salad, homemade cassoulet, apple croustade.

High-quality services and flexible solutions

Every group has its own specific requirements. The hoteliers "Hôtels Circuits France" offer flexible packages, tailored to your group’s travel preferences and the specific requirements of each project.

A warm welcome and a friendly atmosphere
Expertise and direct contact with the hotelier
Tailor-made programs centred around the hotel
Easy access to the hotel and easy parking for coaches and cars
Personalised services for groups
Comfortable and well-equipped rooms
Restaurant serving local cuisine and regional produce

A complete range of services for your groups.

Informations pratiques

Day 3: The bastides of the Lauragais and a foie gras workshop

Let’s plan your group holiday together

Duration of your choice
Personalised programme
Tailor-made holiday
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Hotel*** Auberge du Pastel

Hotel Auberge du Pastel*** is a 3-star hotel located at the gateway to the village of Nailloux, a charming area of pink brick and Garonne pebble houses in the heart of the Lauragais region, 35 km south of Toulouse.

Set in a peaceful natural setting with panoramic views over the Lauragais hills, the Thésauque lake and the Pyrenees, Dominique and Sébastien warmly welcome you to their family-run hotel with genuine warmth and authenticity.

This hotel near Toulouse is open all year round, in both winter and summer. Its authentic charm is particularly appreciated by lovers of discovery and local gastronomy.

Auberge du Pastel is certified with the Green Key label, a leading international eco-label for tourism accommodation, reflecting its strong commitment to sustainable practices: waste reduction, energy and water efficiency, responsible sourcing, and guest awareness.

The advantages for your group :

Capacity: 48 charming rooms with comfort and character
Free coach and car parking
Fully accessible for guests with reduced mobility
Twin beds available

Thanks to its expertise and experience in hosting groups, each stay takes place in a serene and perfectly organized atmosphere.

Discover the hotel