Toulouse, France's fourth biggest city, is bubbling over with life. Ideally situated between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean, the cosmopolitan city mixes heritage and lifestyle. Both modern and proud of the legacy of its past, it has a wealth of cultural heritage.
At the heart of the Midi region, Toulouse has always occupied an important place in the South-West of France. This 2000-year-old history shows itself in an architecture of brick and tiles that, when bathed in the golden sunlight, has given it the name of the 'Ville Rose.'
Its world renowned university is one of the oldest in Europe (founded in 1229) and the second largest after Paris.
All over the city, the ambience is friendly. Take a walk around the historic centre or beside the Garonne and the Canal du Midi, crossing the famous Pont Neuf, or soak up the atmosphere in one of the many cafés.
If shopping is your aim, then Toulouse has all the major internationally-renowned brands in fashion, design, leather goods and jewellery. There are also open-air and covered markets selling the local products that this region is renowned for.
Toulouse is a city to satisfy the taste of every enthusiast of the arts, from classical concerts, lyrical art, jazz and variety to electro-acoustic music.
The climate and weather in Toulouse due to its situation in the Mediterranean, offers one of the best and sunniest climates of the whole of France - there are more than 300 days of sunshine per year! Toulouse and its region are attractive all year round.
Styled in a 1930s décor, Le Grand Balcon Hotel is located in the centre of the beautiful city of Toulouse, near the Place du Capitole. Guestrooms combine 1930s charm and modern comfort, uniquely decorated in the aviation sprit of the ville rose.
Other hotels in Toulouse and nearby
In Toulouse, gastronomy is part of the lifestyle and there are many restaurants to choose from.
Michel Sarran- 21 Boulevard Armand Duportal - 31000 TOULOUSE
Tel : 05 61 12 32 32
A gastronomic experience at Michel Sarran's restaurant, where he prepares fine cuisine that is inventive. Intimate dining, with only 22 covers, so book to avoid disappointment and note that it is closed for the entire month of August.
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Of all the French provincial cities, Toulouse has one of the most intensely cultural calendars
2,000 years of history have left the city scattered with examples of heritage that represent the Southern French style at various moments in history.
The Saint-Sernin basilica is home to the grave of Saint Saturnin, first bishop of Toulouse in the 3rd century. The Jacobins convent buildings have wonderful gothic architecture including the amazing "palm-tree", a pillar from which twenty-two branches stem.
At the heart of the antique dealer's quarter, the Saint Etienne cathedral displays several styles of sacred architecture. The city is also very rich in Renaissance townhouses. The Capitole, currently the City Hall, has magnificently decorated historic rooms.
From the Garonne to the Canal du Midi, and from Saint Sernin to the Cité de l'espace, there are many different faces of Toulouse.
From art of the antiquity to modern art, from Romanesque art treasures to impressionist masterpieces, from Ancient Egypt to the stars, Toulouse is home to some vital collections. The museums themselves are housed in buildings that are heritage jewels, or in astonishing converted industrial buildings. As you go from one museum to the next, you'll discover the charms of the Ville Rose yourself.
Very close to the historic city of Carcassonne, a world heritage site, this 18 hole, par 71 course is gently undulating, with technical challenges to keep the best players interested, but nothing too daunting for the beginner. The stream that crosses the course, the water obstacles and carefully sited bunkers add spice to the game. The 9th hole has been named by several golf magazines as the most original in Europe. While you're in the area, try the great wines of the Corbières, Fitou or Minervois and the culinary specialities of the Cathar region.
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Domaine with elegant 19th Maison de Maître entirely restored, independent 4 bedroom house, outbuilding, pool on 1.7ha of which are 1.4ha of vineyard, beautiful views, peaceful in lovely setting
Spacious and luminous farmhouse, beautifully situated, fully renovated, 5 bedrooms, pool, 2 garages, 30ha of park and scrub land with breathtaking views in Lézignan area
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*** REDUCED PRICE *** Renovated 18th Century stone farmhouse with two gîtes, outbuildings and swimming pool, surrounded by 12 hectares of woodland and meadows, glorious views to the Pyrenées, Carcassonne area
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*** REDUCED PRICE *** Manor type Village House to restore, independent apartment, garage and large garden, walking distance to shops in lively village
*** REDUCED PRICE *** Stunning 18thC character house set in 2300m² of beautiful park including large pool, a pond, and outbuildings, all amenities within walking distance, near the sea and Béziers
Unique Penthouse with 360° breathtaking views over the sea and mountains!
Gorgeous modern villa, 4 bedrooms, mature garden with inviting pool and lovely views, at the edge of a village with all amenities, very quiet and private, Béziers area