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Olargues
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Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Olargues, a medieval village nestled between the river and the mountains in the Haut-Languedoc.
At the crossroads of the Midi and the Massif Central, the heart of Olargues is torn between them. Never mind, the village belongs to both! In its landscapes, chestnut trees and cherry trees stand alongside vines and olive trees, whilst the sun tries to warm the cool waters of the Jaur.
As you wander through the cobblestone streets, the ancient fortified town invites you to climb to the top of its castrum, stroll along its mountain trails, and savour the local produce : the Olargues chestnut.
Of stone, water and light
Perched on a bend in the River Jaur, the castrum of Olargues watches over the valley. The southern sun illuminates the cobblestones of the medieval alleyways and reveals the very soul of the village.
Xavier Ligonnet
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A legend from Olargues
According to legend, the devil built the bridge at Olargues in exchange for the soul of the first person to cross it. Clever as they were, the villagers sent a black cat across it! Since then, the Devil’s Bridge has become one of the village’s symbols.
Your experiences to live in Olargues
©Sedat Yagiz – Minervois Caroux Tourist Office
To get lost in the maze of narrow streets
Let yourself be guided through the cobbled streets of Olargues! Stroll through the medieval streets of the Haut-Languedoc, discover the vaulted passageways, the shaded cobbled streets and the Escalier de la Commanderie… A true journey back in time, stone by stone.
©Minervois Caroux Tourist Office
Walking in the devil’s footsteps
Ready to face the legend? Cross the famous Devil’s Bridge, a Romanesque masterpiece from the Middle Ages, and admire its humpback silhouette. From the top of the castrum, you can truly appreciate its beauty and scale!
©Minervois Caroux Tourist Office
Olargues chestnut treats
You simply can’t leave without trying this local delicacy! Whether eaten fresh, as a cream or in pastries, Olargues chestnuts are a treat for food lovers and a source of inspiration for the world’s greatest chefs. Every year in November, there’s even a festival dedicated to them!
Ideas for everyone, all the time
From April 1, 2026 to April 1, 2027
ESCAPE GAME ET JEUX D'ENQUÊTE
The Cebenna Center opens its doors to you for a series of never-before-seen adventures! Between fantastic botany, criminal investigations and climate emergencies, will you be able to keep your cool?
Pr. Datura: Rescue the botanist in the heart of a mysterious greenhouse. Rescape: Infiltrate Prof. Nordmann's office to save the planet. Garden Alert: Save insects and pollination before it's too late! Investigations: "Crime in Cebenna" or the disappearance of the ornithologist... It's up to you to investigate! Whether you're an apprentice herbalist, a seasoned detective or a conservationist, there's a mission waiting for you. Come and test your logic and team spirit!
Next dates:
- From 04/01/2026 to 04/01/2027
From May 9, 2026 to Sept. 20, 2026
1889: LE TRAIN ARRIVE À OLARGUES
An exhibition to discover how the town was transformed by the arrival of the railroad.
Next dates:
- From 05/09/2026 to 09/20/2026
From Sept. 13, 2026 to Dec. 27, 2026
MARCHE DE PLEIN VENT
A gourmet event in the heart of one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages. A lively market bringing together local producers and artisans, where you can savor the authenticity and freshness of regional products from the Haut-Languedoc.
Succumb to the charm of a gourmet stop at the foot of the ancient medieval town of Olargues. This friendly weekly gathering brings together passionate vendors, local producers, and artisans who are proud to share their expertise. Ideally located, this local market showcases the richness of our Haut-Languedoc region. Treat yourself to a selection of fresh, flavorful, and seasonal products: stalls of fruits and vegetables, local cheeses, artisanal charcuterie, deli specialties, and even the famous local chestnuts. It’s the perfect opportunity to fill your basket with authentic flavors, meet the faces behind our local agriculture, and treat yourself to a warm, welcoming break in the heart of the Jaur Valley. An unmissable gathering for lovers of good food and local heritage, ideal for enhancing your stays and Sunday getaways.
Next dates:
- 09/13/2026
- 09/20/2026
- 09/27/2026
From Sept. 19, 2026 to Sept. 20, 2026
STAGE DE PEINTURE - PORTRAIT
Els Knockaert offers an intensive course dedicated to portraiture, accessible to beginners and experienced painters alike. Sketching from a live model, exploring techniques and creating an oil canvas, you will progress in an inspiring and caring environment
This two-day course, led by artist Els Knockaert, offers a complete immersion in the art of portraiture. Designed for beginners and experienced painters alike, it covers the essential basics - proportions, perspective, face construction - while introducing a wide variety of expressive techniques: oil, watercolor, acrylic, palette knife or mixed media. The first day begins with sketching from a live model, to learn how to capture the lines, volumes and personality of the subject. The afternoon is devoted to exploring different artistic approaches, with particular emphasis on the treatment of mixed-media backgrounds. The second day is devoted to creating an oil-on-canvas portrait, building on what you learned the day before. The course is run in small groups to guarantee personalized support and enable each participant to leave with a finished work of art. A warm atmosphere, inspiring surroundings and attentive teaching make this experience as enriching as it is accessible. Three good reasons 1. Accessible, personalized learning Small groups and attentive guidance to help you progress at your own pace, whether you're a beginner or an experienced painter. 2. Complete artistic immersion Sketches from live models, mixed media, color work and oil painting: a rich, structured course. 3. A creative experience in an inspiring setting A warm workshop, a friendly atmosphere and the satisfaction of leaving with a finished portrait.
Next dates:
- From 09/19/2026 to 09/20/2026
From Sept. 19, 2026 to Sept. 20, 2026
JEP 2026 - L'ORGUE CLERGEAU EN LUMIÈRE
Discover a rare 19th-century instrument, designated a Historic Monument, famous for its pure tones. Enjoy a lecture on local heritage and a captivating concert featuring timeless classical masterpieces.
In the heart of a picturesque village, come admire an authentic 19th-century masterpiece at the Louis XVI buffet. This rare instrument, prized by the world’s greatest musicians for the purity of its tones, features a highly original transposition system. Preserved over time and beautifully restored to its original condition, it produces its eight stops with remarkable clarity. The program invites you to explore the rich religious history of the local seigneury during a fascinating lecture, before culminating in a harmonious duet that brings together the timbres of this historic instrument and those of the oboe. A true journey through the ages and the most beautiful classical works. Details of the 2-day program / - Saturday, September 19 at 3:30 p.m.: Lecture on churches. - Sunday, September 20, at 6:00 p.m.: Oboe and organ concert.
Next dates:
- 09/19/2026
- 09/20/2026
The Sept. 20, 2026
CONCERT D'ORGUES
Organ Friday starting at 6 p.m. Well-known and highly regarded by the public, Irène Randrianjanaka will be joined this time by the renowned Josselin Dulac to showcase the organ, designated a historic monument, at the church in Olargues.
Josselin DULAC, oboe - Irène RANDRIANJANAKA, organ CONCERT AS PART OF EUROPEAN HERITAGE DAYS Well-known and highly regarded by the public, Irène Randrianjanaka will be joined this time by oboist Josselin Dulac to showcase the organ at the Church of Olargues, designated a Historic Monument Vivaldi – Telemann – Schumann – Walther Admission by donation
Next dates:
- 09/20/2026
The Sept. 20, 2026
MARCHÉ MÉDIÉVAL
In the heart of the medieval village of Olargues, enjoy a unique market featuring local producers and passionate artisans. A variety of activities will liven up this festive and friendly day for the whole family.
In the heart of one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages, the medieval village of Olargues comes alive for an exceptional pop-up market. Stroll through the picturesque narrow streets to meet passionate artisans, original creators, and local producers eager to share the authentic flavors of the region with you. To enhance this convivial experience, a variety of activities will enliven your visit to this enchanting historic setting. An ideal getaway to enjoy with family or friends, combining artisanal discoveries, culinary delights, and cultural heritage.
Next dates:
- 09/20/2026
From Sept. 26, 2026 to Sept. 27, 2026
STAGE DE PEINTURE - PAYSAGE
Would you like to learn to paint, or improve and diversify your technique? This workshop is for you! Professional portrait painter Els Knockaert welcomes you to her studio. You'll learn about various techniques and materials, and produce a painting on canvas at the end of the workshop.
Would you like to learn to paint, or improve and diversify your technique? This workshop is for you! Els Knockaert welcomes beginners and experienced painters to her studio. You'll be introduced to a variety of techniques and materials, and learn to draw and paint with a live model. Els teaches small groups of up to five people. It's an intense experience that allows you to go home with a finished painting after two exciting days. Landscape course : Over 2 days from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm Els offers an introduction to landscape painting (proportions, perspective?) and the various techniques of expression (oil, watercolor, acrylic, knife?.). 1st day : morning: outdoor sketching. afternoon: exploration of different techniques. Particular attention paid to the rendering of backgrounds (mixed-media technique). 2nd day : Oil-on-canvas portraiture, based on knowledge acquired the previous day.
Next dates:
- From 09/26/2026 to 09/27/2026
From Oct. 10, 2026 to Oct. 11, 2026
STAGE DE PEINTURE - PORTRAIT
Would you like to learn to paint, or improve and diversify your technique? This workshop is for you! Professional portrait painter Els Knockaert welcomes you to her studio. You'll learn about various techniques and materials, and produce a painting on canvas at the end of the workshop.
Would you like to learn to paint, or improve and diversify your technique? This workshop is for you! Els Knockaert welcomes beginners and experienced painters to her studio. You'll be introduced to a variety of techniques and materials, and learn to draw and paint with a live model. Els teaches small groups of up to five people. It's an intense experience that allows you to go home with a finished painting after two exciting days. Portrait workshop: Over 2 days from 9.30am to 5.30pm Els offers an introduction to portraiture (proportions, perspective?) and the various techniques of expression (oil, watercolor, acrylic, knife?.). 1st day : morning: sketching from a live model. afternoon: exploration of different techniques. Particular attention paid to the rendering of backgrounds (mixed-media technique). day 2 : Portrait painting in oil on canvas, based on knowledge acquired the previous day.
Next dates:
- From 10/10/2026 to 10/11/2026
The Oct. 17, 2026
ESCAPADE GOURMANDE : MARRONS D'OLARGUES & VINS DE FAUGÈRES
Discover Olargues, one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France," on a guided walk through its medieval heritage and chestnut groves. Round out this gourmet getaway with a tasting of roasted chestnuts, paired with biodynamic wines from Domaine de Cébène. A delightful morning immersed in the flavors and landscapes of the Haut-Languedoc.
As part of "Vignobles en Scène," the "Vignobles & Découvertes" event series: Set out for a fun-filled morning immersed in the flavors and landscapes of the Haut-Languedoc. Benjamin is a mountain guide and an amateur chestnut grower. Together with Brigitte, a biodynamic winemaker in Faugères, they invite you to: ? A medieval stroll to discover Olargues: Ranked among the “most beautiful villages in France.” ? A guided tour of a chestnut grove. ? And a tasting of Brigitte’s wines from the Domaine de Cébène to pair with the famous “marrons d’Olargues”!! DURATION: About 3 hours (including a 1.5-hour walk) MEETING TIME: 9:00 a.m. at the Olargues train station. 9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.: Medieval walk through the village. And a visit to the chestnut grove (1.5-hour walk) 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.: Tasting of roasted chestnuts and Faugères wines from the Domaine de Cébène. PRICE: 18 € per person (free for children) - Groups (8–12 people): 150 € Registration required
Next dates:
- 10/17/2026
Hike from Malviès to Olargues
Get ready for a challenging 15 km hike (allow 5 hours’ walking) along the trails of the Haut-Languedoc. Discover the Peyro Escrito, a site featuring prehistoric rock carvings, stroll through the garrigue and enjoy breathtaking views of Olargues and its Pont du Diable.
Cebenna Centre
Come and enjoy immersive experiences at the Cebenna Centre, dedicated to environmental education and sustainable development! Forest walks, discovering wild plants and fun workshops to learn how to protect nature. Ideal for exploring the flora and fauna at the foot of Mont Caroux.
Cycling along the “Passa Païs” greenway
Take the greenway by bike for a route combining nature and heritage. Follow the route of an old railway line, cycle at a leisurely pace and let yourself be carried away by the springtime landscapes of the Haut-Languedoc Regional Nature Park.
Swimming at Le Frejo
Fancy a dip? Head to Le Frejo, 3 km from the village, for a swim in a small natural pool, right in the heart of the mountains. With its waterfall and cool water, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing break on the hottest days.
Map of Olargues
Extend the visit to near Olargues
Minerve
(26 km)
Prepare your stay at Olargues
Office de Tourisme du Minervois au Caroux
Accessibility
Olargues
# Boulodrome : Boulodrome
# Parking : Stationnement gratuit toute l'année
# Parking : Emplacements de stationnement pour vélo
# Aire de stationnement pour camping-car : Aire de stationnement pour camping-car à moins de 15 mn à pieds
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