The Midi Pyrenees region is the largest region in France, the regional capital being the red brick city of Toulouse. To the east, it is bordered almost entirely by Languedoc Roussillon, to the north by the Auvergne and Limousin regions, to the west by Aquitaine, while the south of the region is flanked by the Pyrenees mountains and Spain. Unsurprisingly, for such a large area, the landscape varies massively, incorporating parts of the staggeringly wild Massif Central, the western stretches of the magnificent Tarn river valley, the more gentle, Dordogne-like Lot department, the green and rolling Gers or Gascony area and of course the rugged beauty of the Pyrenees themselves. There is so much here that each department deserves a detailed description in its own right, but the overall feel is 'real French', rural and outdoor. Although there is no coast, the beaches of the Mediterranean are a manageable drive away, as are the seaside resorts of Aquitaine - ideal for a peaceful rustic family getaway interspersed with day trips to busier regions. Cultural attractions also make Albi, Carcassonne and of course Lourdes appealing day trips. In the winter, skiing is good in the Pyrenees, and Andorra is reachable. The famous Canal du Midi flows through the region, providing opportunities for boating, while the region is also home to the magnificent Millau bridge. Other outdoor activities include canoeing, rafting, kayaking, climbing and walking.
Typically French places to stay are widely available across the region, with the gite complex (cottages or apartments on the owner's land) being very popular. Farmhouses with converted barns, watermills and farm buildings are tucked away in the forest or in peaceful countryside locations. There are also village houses and mountain chalets as well as eco-friendly lodges. For extra luxury, there are chateaux, manoirs and mansions. Although this is not a coastal region, there are still villas available here - many detached and with pools. For shorter breaks, there are some great boutique bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, hotels and homely chambres d'hotes - some also provide 'tables d'hotes' (home cooked meals) featuring local cuisine.