Travel Southern France, Languedoc Roussillon

When you hear the words 'travel southern france', the first places that spring to mind are probably Provence and the Riviera.

How about something different this time? We'd like to introduce you to the Languedoc Rousillon, a beautiful and unique region in southern France.

The Languedoc borders Provence, the Rhone-Alps, Auvergne and Midi-Pyrenees, as well as Spain and Andorra - giving the region a unique spanish flair.

It has an amazing mix of contrasting landscapes, from the snowcapped mountains of the Pyrénées to lush vineyards, rugged river gorges and white sandy beaches.

There are plenty of historical attractions here too - from medieval villages and castles, to ancient churches, roman ruins and walled cities.

So, a wonderful mix of things to do, whatever your interest.

Travel Southern France: Postcards from the Languedoc

One of the most popular places to visit in the Languedoc is Carcassonne; but it is in the smaller cities and villages where the magic of this region really comes alive.

Here are a some fun vacation ideas if you're visiting the area:

• The Côte Vermeille is a great alternative to the French Riviera beaches if you're looking for something different;


• If you love the outdoors and want something remote and off the beaten path, check out the beautiful Cévennes mountains;


• There are a number of interesting medieval towns in the area. Mirepoix dates back to the 14th century and has medieval half-timbered homes and oak arcades; Sainte-Enemie is classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France; Aragon, Lagrasse, Minerve and St Guilhem le Desert, Poirhes, Colombiers, Le Somail and Capestang are also well worth a visit.


• Sample the delicious local wines in the hilltop city of Béziers, the wine capital of the Languedoc; visit the Cathédrale St-Nazaire, a fortified church with a huge 14th century rose window;


• Queribus, Peypertuse and Montsegur, popularly known as "Cathar castles", while quite touristy in summer, should be one of the must-sees on your list and are still spectacular to see.

Languedoc Travel Southern France - Where To Stay

You might find our Vacation Rentals section useful too, if you'd like to rent a self-catering holiday home.

To get to Languedoc Roussillon, you could fly to Paris and then take a connecting flight to Monpellier; or you could take a train to Narbonne.

The ideal way to explore the area is to hire a car.

Travel Southern France - Map of Languedoc

Here is a map of Languedoc so you can get a feel for the different regions and cities in this part of France.