March 2025

Montolieu: A Quiet Escape to France’s Book Village

Nestled in the south of France close to our current housesit, Montolieu is a charming literary haven known as the “Village of Books.” Home to numerous bookshops, artisan workshops, and a deep literary heritage, this small town near Carcassonne has been a magnet for book lovers since the 1990s.

Visiting in the off-season, we found Montolieu wonderfully quiet and peaceful, its medieval streets nearly empty but still full of character. Without the usual crowds, we could truly appreciate the town’s charm—stone buildings lined with colorful shutters and cozy bookstores overflowing with rare finds.

Beyond books, Montolieu also boasts art galleries, a printing museum, and beautiful countryside views. The slow pace made it the perfect place to wander, pause, and soak in the literary magic. Whether you visit for the books or simply to escape into a quiet corner of France, Montolieu is a hidden gem worth exploring.