Are you dreaming of a modern-day fairy tale wedding in a place steeped in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes?
Can you imagine saying "I do" in the courtyard of a medieval castle, or sipping cocktails with your guests while overlooking the vineyards of the Tarn?
Southwest France is full of treasures and enchanting settings. Between the lush green valleys, vine-covered hills, and historic buildings that speak of another time, this region offers idyllic backdrops for your wedding in the Southwest of France.
Whether you're drawn to the elegance of a Renaissance chateau, the authenticity of a medieval fortress, or the charm of a Provençal farmhouse nestled among vineyards, there's bound to be a place that makes your heart skip a beat.
As a wedding planner, I've visited many venues, and here I'm sharing my 5 favorite chateaus for a wedding near Toulouse.
Château La Commanderie: A Touch of the Middle Ages for a Unique Wedding
Château La Commanderie is located in Southwest France, in the Aude department on the border of Ariège, 15 minutes from Mirepoix and 45 minutes from Toulouse and Carcassonne. It is a 13th-century Cathar castle, surrounded by a 10-acre park with a swimming pool.
It has kept its fortress spirit while becoming a refined residence. Fully restored, it blends family antiques with works of art. The setting is authentic and welcoming.
The main reception room, called the Knights' Hall, can accommodate up to 130 people in a historic setting with a view of the massive library. The chateau has 10 double rooms for 21 people, and an independent cottage with 4 double rooms for 8 guests.
Estimated 2025 rates for 4 days/3 nights are €9,500 during high season (July, August, and the Christmas period).
This is a place I know very well and particularly enjoy. I organize weddings there every year. The chateau is beautiful and surrounded by a park with large trees, ensuring there's always a shaded spot in the middle of summer.
In 2024, I had the privilege of organizing Charlotte and Reynolds' beautiful English-speaking wedding in this enchanting venue, and I can assure you that every moment was magical, thanks to the beauty and unique charm of the chateau and its grounds.
Fun fact: when you visit, listen closely to the stories from Rebecca, the owner. I especially love the secret staircase leading to the first floor. It's a narrow spiral staircase carved from a single tree trunk. A must-see!
Wedding planner tip: if you want to have dinner in the Knights' Hall, make sure to mention it during your first contact with the caterer. For them, it's a crucial detail since it's located upstairs, which significantly impacts the catering team's logistics.
Château de Goudourville: A Wedding Steeped in History and Charm
Located just over an hour from Toulouse, Château de Goudourville transports you to a unique setting blending history, nature, and elegance. Perched on a plateau, it offers breathtaking views of the Garonne Valley. It is a 12th-century medieval castle listed as a Historic Monument. It was enhanced during the Renaissance and the 18th century and retains exceptional features, such as the guards' hall with its arrow slits, barrel vaults, its 1545 fireplace, and the coats of arms of the lords who marked its history.
At Château de Goudourville, you can plan your secular ceremony on the courtyard side or the ramparts side, with the Guards' Hall as a perfect Plan B. The reception room, called the Clement V Salon, is located upstairs and can host a dinner in the heart of the chateau for about 80 guests.
By renting Château de Goudourville for your wedding, you become the lords of the manor for the duration of the celebration, and you can accommodate up to 30 people on-site.
I've had the pleasure of organizing several weddings at this chateau, which truly has so much charm. You might have already seen photos of Roxana and Benedikt's American-German wedding, or Élodie and Mike's French-British wedding.
Fun fact: during your visit, you might notice marks on the facade above the bridge, indicating the location of old windows that once looked out from the Clement V Salon.
Wedding planner tip: Château de Goudourville is incredibly charming, but it's a very complex venue for caterers, with many stairs and a kitchen that's hard to access. Make sure the caterer knows the venue before hiring them!
Château des Varennes: A Wedding at the Heart of History and Nature
Château des Varennes dates back to the 16th century, and it has the unique distinction of remaining in the same family since it was built: you'll be welcomed by the 22nd generation of owners!
Located just 25 kilometers from Toulouse on the road to Revel, this magnificent horseshoe-shaped chateau offers an idyllic setting for your wedding celebration.
The estate offers several reception areas to suit all your needs. The courtyard, dominated by a sumptuous 16th-century porch, provides a perfect backdrop for your photos or for welcoming your guests. The park, shaded by century-old trees, is ideal for an outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour. For dinner, a spacious marquee can accommodate up to 130 seated guests in a convivial atmosphere.
In case of unpredictable weather, the two adjoining salons offer an elegant alternative for the reception or cocktail hour. The library is perfect for wedding preparations (hair, makeup) or for hosting children after dinner. Finally, the vaulted ballroom, with exceptional acoustics, is ideal for keeping the party going and dancing the night away.
Château des Varennes also offers on-site accommodation. The 5 rooms in the chateau can sleep 12 people, and with 3 cottages and 4 lodge tents, you can house up to 46 guests.
I had the pleasure of celebrating Gaëlle and Max's French-German secular ceremony there. Their day, steeped in the warm atmosphere and elegance of the chateau, was a true fairy tale.
Fun fact: I particularly love the charm of the vaulted room. That's where Gaëlle and Max's ceremony took place, and the setting really allowed for an intimate and warm atmosphere.
Wedding planner tip: Château des Varennes is a great compromise if you don't want to go too far from Toulouse while still being in a magnificent, timeless setting for your wedding.
Château Lacoste: A Wedding with Breathtaking Views of the Pyrenees
Perched on a hill overlooking Lake Lupiac, Château Lacoste, located in Lupiac in the Gers, offers an exceptional setting for your wedding. This 18th-century chateau, located at the entrance to d'Artagnan's birthplace, combines historic charm with modern amenities to make your wedding an unforgettable moment.
The chateau can accommodate up to 200 people for a reception under a nomadic tent. It is suitable for both intimate weddings and large celebrations. The tent, lit with bistro-style string lights, adds a warm and magical atmosphere to your evening.
For your guests' comfort, the chateau offers 20 rooms that can accommodate up to 60 people, including a room accessible for people with reduced mobility. The chateau also provides plenty of equipment for a family-style stay, such as barbecues, a ping-pong table, pétanque balls, or Mölkky.
2025 high season rates are €8,500 for the estate rental, plus €25 per night per person for accommodation.
I discovered this place in 2024 and loved it immediately! I can't wait to share photos of the British wedding I'm organizing there in 2025.
Fun fact: this place has had several lives. Before its latest restoration, it was a holiday center for children's summer camps!
Wedding planner tip: there are several options for your outdoor secular ceremony. Remember to check for shade for mid-summer weddings!
Château de Salettes: A Wedding in the Heart of Gaillac Vineyards
Château de Salettes is located in Cahuzac-sur-Vère, in the Tarn. This historic chateau, dating from the 13th and 15th centuries, stands proudly in the heart of the thousand-year-old Gaillac vineyards in Occitanie. With its imposing towers and surrounding wall, this character-filled building offers an authentic and elegant setting for an unforgettable day.
Surrounded by 25 acres of vines, the chateau tells a rich story: as far back as the time of Francis I, Salettes white wine graced royal tables. Today, this venue welcomes couples and their guests (up to 80 people) in a peaceful atmosphere.
Château de Salettes is a 4-star hotel that can accommodate 46 guests across 13 rooms and 5 suites.
Fun fact: I discovered this place in 2024, and with a whole team of vendors, we organized a photo shoot there based on a reimagined Snow White theme. You've surely seen some photos on my social media!
Wedding planner tip: to be able to dance all night, you'll need to request a waiver from the town hall. Without it, the music must stop at 1:00 AM.
Private rental of Château de Salettes allows you to enjoy the entire estate. In high season, you can book the venue for one night starting at €9,000. You can then accommodate up to 46 guests.
I had the chance to do an inspiration shoot in this sumptuous chateau. The chosen theme was Snow White. Throughout the day, we were enchanted by the friendly atmosphere and the charm of the venue.
Fun fact: every time I go to Château de Salettes, I feel like I've traveled to Provence, with its Provençal farmhouse style, which is quite unexpected in the heart of the Tarn.
Wedding planner tip: to extend the party past 1:00 AM, it's necessary to request a waiver from the town hall.
How to Choose Your Wedding Chateau?
I hope all these chateaus have shown you the diversity and richness of our beautiful Occitanie region. But now, how do you choose the one that will host your wedding?
It's essential to think about which one best fits your desires and needs.
Here are some key points to consider to find the perfect venue:
Location : Make sure the chateau is easily accessible for your guests. Proximity to Toulouse can be an advantage if you want to ensure your loved ones don't have too far to drive.
The Grounds: The gardens, terraces, and outdoor spaces play a vital role, especially if you're planning an outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour.
Capacity: Each chateau has a different capacity, both for the dinner and for accommodation.
Style and Atmosphere: Each chateau has its own history and charm. Do you prefer a classic style or a more intimate and romantic venue?
Budget: Find out about the rates, as well as what's included: furniture, cleaning, etc.
So, what will your choice be for your wedding?
A medieval castle or a Provençal farmhouse style?
Can't decide?
Contact me on Instagram to tell me what's making you hesitate!
Follow me on Instagram for even more inspiration and advice.
Photo Credits:
– Vanessa Madec
– Alex Schmautz
– Meryl Montagné
– Cynthia Cappe
Venues:
– Château de la Commanderie
– Château de Goudourville
– Château Lacoste
– Château des Varennes
– Château de Salettes
Wedding planner and/or secular ceremony officiant:
– Delphine Goudy
Snow White Shoot Vendor List:
Château de Salettes | Ces Petits Riens | Delphine Goudy | Sophie Bachère | Naudy la vie simplement | Bérangère A | Oh my guy | Studio Douceur | Rétine et Papilles | Amandine B
