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Discover France at Its Most Authentic If you’ve ever dreamt of living in a pretty French village — one with stone houses, breathtaking views, and the gentle rhythm of rural life — the villages around Bagnères-de-Luchon could be exactly what you’re looking for. Tucked away in the Comminges region of the Haute-Garonne, close to the Spanish border and the spa town of Luchon, these picturesque communities offer the perfect mix of peaceful living and practical convenience — with outdoor adventures, local culture, and community spirit on your doorstep. Here’s why these mountain villages are increasingly capturing the hearts of international buyers. 1. Real Villages, Real Life The villages around Luchon are not resorts or retirement enclaves — they’re working villages, where people live, shop, grow their vegetables, and greet each other in the street. You’ll find a refreshing sense of authenticity, community, and timeless charm. Some of the most sought-after villages include: Saint-Béat-Lez – Set on the River Garonne, with a mini-market, bakery, café and schools. Beautiful stone homes, riverside walks, and proximity to Spain make this a popular choice. Cierp-Gaud – A larger village with shops, restaurants, post office, pharmacy, and even a train station. A great option if you want amenities without being in a town. Marignac – Peaceful and charming, with quick access to the motorway, river walks, and forest trails. Popular with walkers and cyclists. Montauban-de-Luchon – A picturesque village just minutes from Luchon, with panoramic views and beautifully renovated homes. Ideal for those seeking countryside calm but close access to spa treatments, ski lifts, and dining out. Bourg-d’Oueil, Artigue, and Benqué-Dessous-Dessus – Smaller hamlets and mountain villages offering true serenity, big views, and amazing stargazing. Each village has its own personality — some with schools and shops, others with hidden waterfalls, centuries-old churches, or old communal ovens still in use at village fêtes. 2. An Outdoor Playground in Every Direction Living in one of these villages means the Pyrenees are your back garden. From your doorstep you can: * Hike into the mountains on marked trails or forest paths * Cycle through scenic valleys or tackle Tour de France climbs * Fish or swim in rivers and lakes * Pick mushrooms in autumn and chestnuts in winter * Ski or snowshoe at Le Mourtis, Superbagnères, or Baquèira-Beret just across the border in Spain And all of this without the crowds found in more touristy regions. Here, you’re part of the landscape — not just a visitor to it. 3. A Warm Welcome and a Slower Pace People often say the Comminges villages “feel like how France used to be.” There’s a genuine warmth from locals, a slower rhythm to the days, and a sense that life is lived outdoors, around tables, and in nature. You'll get to know your neighbours at the local market or village fête, learn which days the cheese van arrives, and discover hidden produce stalls and roadside honesty boxes filled with eggs, jam, and vegetables. There’s also a growing international community here — from Belgium, the UK, the Netherlands, and beyond — people who have fallen in love with the region’s peace, affordability, and beauty. 4. Character Properties at Great Prices The surrounding villages offer a wide range of property options — often at much lower prices than comparable areas in the Alps or Provence. You’ll find: * Charming stone cottages with wooden shutters and flower-filled gardens * Barn conversions and farmhouses with potential for gîtes or studios * Elegant village houses with mountain views and original features * Plots of land for those dreaming of building a sustainable home in nature Whether you’re looking for a turnkey home, a renovation project, or a property with income potential, the choice is rich — and the value is exceptional. 5. Easy Access, Strong Infrastructure Despite their peaceful setting, these villages are well connected: * Luchon is just 5–20 minutes away for shops, schools, spa, and social life * Toulouse-Blagnac airport is around 1h30 by car * Spain is 15–20 minutes away for tapas, skiing, or cross-border adventures * Some villages have train stations or direct bus links, ideal for those without a car * Fast fibre internet is also expanding across the region — making remote working entirely possible from your mountain haven. Make Your French Dream a Reality Living in a French village doesn’t have to mean isolation or compromise. In the Comminges, you’ll find community, beauty, space, and opportunity — in a region where seasons are celebrated, neighbours know each other, and the views never get old. Whether you want to settle in full-time, create a holiday base, or invest in a property with income potential, the villages around Luchon offer a rare chance to live authentically, affordably, and beautifully in the heart of the Pyrenees. Ready to discover these villages for yourself? I’m Carole McGregor, a local estate agent based in the Luchon area, helping international buyers find their perfect property in the Pyrenees. From cosy village homes to mountain hideaways and business-ready opportunities, I’ll guide you every step of the way — with honest advice, local expertise, and full support in English and French. 📩 carolemcgregor@leggett.fr 📞 +33 782 445 493 📍 Based in the Pyrenees, helping buyers worldwide