Languedoc-Roussillon, France
Languedoc-Roussillon, France
Stretching from the border with Spain in the south to Provence in the north, the Languedoc-Roussillon department of southern France is as vast as it is varied. Best known for its wine production, there’s no shortage of undulating vineyards and wineries to visit.
Resorts along the Mediterranean coast are busy in summer but less showy than the Côte d'Azur.
Inland, it’s a different story: mile upon mile of agricultural land interspersed with historic cities such as Nimes, Narbonne and Carcassonne. Indeed, this is Cathar country, where one finds numerous medieval fortresses, hilltop castles, towns and villages, built as a defensive measure against the crusaders.
A destination in which to enjoy the great outdoors, Languedoc has natural parks and nature reserves, lush valleys and scrub-covered hills, meandering rivers and peaceful canals – all the way down to the wall of mountains that is the Pyrenees. No wonder it attracts so many walkers, hikers and cyclists.
Food and wine are, of course, all-important here. Typical of the region is the meaty cassoulet, and fresh seafood, including mussels and oysters. As one of the largest wine producing regions in France, visitors will be spoiled for choice.
Vibrant Montpelier is the capital of Languedoc and home to the main airport. Other convenient airports include Perpignan, Carcassonne, and Toulouse.
| Languages spoken | French |
|---|---|
| Currency used | Euros |
| Area (km2) | 27,376 |
| Country name | France |
Activities for kids
On the River
The river Aude with its rapids and the Lys and St Georges gorges create ideal conditions for practicing a number of river-based activities. Sports centre offer kayaking and canoeing tours down the river and thrilling white water experiences in large, stable inflatable rafts. Canyoning, which involves a combination of climbing, jumping and sliding through gorges is also offered, as is white water swimming – practiced wearing protective suits and helmets, and aided by fins and floats.
Accro Climbing Park
For children aged 6 and older and adults, this park is an assault course through the tree tops. There are four courses that include climbing, rope bridges and zip lines across the river.
Walking & Cycling
The winding country roads in the area are good for gentle bike rides and picnics or, for something more adventurous, there are a number of trail bike rides in the nearby hills.
The scenic hills, valleys, lakes and gorges are also ideal for walks of all lengths and fitness levels.