Grand Coteau

Leonville, a town settled by free people of color living on the beautiful Bayou Teche, was named after the Catholic priest who built the settlement's first church in 1898. The city remains a destination for the devout; the grotto at St. Leo's Catholic Church in the center of town is a local visitor attraction. Leonville is located on the outskirts of Opelousas, which means that its Cajun roots run deep.

This is an outdoors enthusiast’s paradise. The 50-mile Opelousas Loop of the Louisiana bike trail network runs through Leonville, as does the kayaker- and canoeist-friendly 135-mile-long Bayou Teche National Water Trail.

Learn more about Leonville, LA here.