Discover Auvillar

Discover Auvillar offers emblematic circular bell tower, historic streets and preserved heritage, Located in one of France's most beautiful villages, close to our gîtes in Faudoas, it is the perfect base for a holiday combining culture, heritage and relaxation in our top-of-the-range gîte with heated swimming pool.

Why visit Auvillar?

One of France's most beautiful villages

Auvillar is a medieval village perched on a hill overlooking the Garonne valley, officially recognised as one of the world's most beautiful villages. Most Beautiful Villages in France for the quality of its heritage and surroundings. This distinction guarantees a quality visit in a preserved and authentic environment.

An authentic cultural experience

This village is particularly suitable if you want to discover a outstanding architectural heritage, stroll through the historic alleyways medieval cobblestones, admire a unique circular bell tower in France, take advantage of panoramic view over the Garonne valley, and experience a authentic cultural experience away from the mass tourist circuits.

Auvillar's heritage

The emblematic circular bell tower

The highlight of a visit to Auvillar is its 16th-century circular bell tower, It is the only one of its kind in France and a symbol of the village. The Assumption bell tower, built of local stone, towers 32 metres above the village and offers a breathtaking view of the village. exceptional panoramic view over the Garonne valley, the hills of Gascony and the Pyrenees in the distance.

The 106-step spiral staircase takes you to the top of the bell tower, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside. 360-degree panorama over the whole region. The climb is well worth the effort for the breathtaking view that sweeps across the Lomagne.

Saint-Pierre church and religious heritage

L’Saint-Pierre d'Auvillar church dates back to the 13th century and was rebuilt in the 16th century after the Wars of Religion. This fortified church contains several works of art listed as historic monuments, including a 17th century baroque altarpiece, and religious paintings and cult objects old.

The architecture of the church blends Romanesque and Gothic styles, with thick walls and buttresses that bear witness to its defensive role during periods of conflict. A visit to the church provides an insight into the religious history of the village and the sacred art of Gascony.

The historic streets and medieval bastide town

The centre of Auvillar can be explored on foot through cobbled streets from the Middle Ages which retain the authentic atmosphere of an unspoilt Gascon village. Les half-timbered houses of the 16th and 17th centuries, the town houses of the Renaissance and medieval vaults create a picturesque setting ideal for walking and photography.

La place du Marché in the centre of the village houses the covered halls from the 19th century, still used for the weekly market. Around the square, you'll find traditional cafés, and local crafts and shops selling local produce to extend your visit with a gourmet break.

Getting here and visiting Auvillar

How to get to Auvillar

Auvillar is located approximately 20 minutes' drive from Faudoas, This makes for an easy half-day or full-day visit. The village is accessible via the departmental road D933 linking Toulouse to Bordeaux, with a free parking at the entrance to the village for visitors.

Le Place du Port car park is just a 5-minute walk from the historic centre, with a footpath a gentle slope leading up to the village. For visitors with reduced mobility, a accessible path provides easy access to the centre.

Opening times and recommendations

The village of Auvillar is free of charge every day of the year, with variable opening times for specific monuments. Visit circular bell tower is open from May to September, from 10:00 to 19:00 in summer, with a free admission for all visitors.

To make the most of your visit, allow 2 to 3 hours to explore the village at your own pace, come in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds, wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled streets and the climb to the bell tower, bring water especially in summer, when it's hot in the shadeless alleyways, and bring a camera to capture panoramic views and architectural details.