Languedoc-Roussillon combines coastline, mountains, lively towns and the landscapes of the Causses. This offers different ways to shape a trip: coastal activities and water sports, Roman and medieval heritage, exploring the foothills of the CĂ©vennes, or regional cuisine. When choosing accommodation, it helps to first consider which of these aspects interests you most.
Landscapes and Viewpoints
The Languedoc coast stretches for 220 kilometres and includes seaside resorts. In the regional landscape, it is set against mountains and the Causses; lively towns are also among its defining features. The Bassin de Thau brings together several interests: a range of water sports takes place there, and oysters from the basin are among the region’s specialities.
For a view across the landscape, the Mont-Aigoual Observatory offers a viewpoint over Languedoc-Roussillon. This change of perspective complements experiences by the water and in the towns with a view of the region’s landscapes. If you are organising your trip by theme, you can consider viewpoints, culture and water-based activities as separate areas of interest.
Cultural Heritage from the Roman Era to the Middle Ages
Saint-Nazaire Cathedral retains the appearance it had in the Middle Ages, including its 14th-century stained-glass windows. These features are also highlighted in UNESCO’s architectural description. The Via Domitia offers a different way to explore history: the route includes ancient Roman structures. The old fortified city of Carcassonne is also part of the region’s cultural heritage.
These examples highlight different aspects: the cathedral draws attention to medieval architecture and stained glass, while the Via Domitia brings Roman structures along a historic route into focus. The fortified city of Carcassonne adds another option to this cultural selection. Those particularly interested in architecture and history will find several specific points of interest, without needing to combine them into a single sightseeing itinerary.
Activities on the Water, on Foot and by Bike
In the foothills of the Cévennes, you can explore the landscape on foot, by donkey or by steam train. Kayaking in the Tarn Gorge is another way to experience the surroundings actively. Along the Canal du Midi, cycling by the canal is one of the region’s activities. These examples differ both in how you get around and in the landscapes they feature.
Sailing, sea kayaking, windsurfing, kite surfing and diving take place on the Bassin de Thau; availability may depend on the season. If water sports are central to your trip, take this seasonal condition into account when planning. For winter sports, the ski area in Pyrénées-Orientales and Aude has around 200 kilometres of pistes. Water activities and kilometres of pistes therefore represent two very different ways to choose a focus for your trip.
Regional Cuisine and Wine
Olive oil, garlic, basil and garrigue herbs shape the cuisine of Languedoc-Roussillon. Regional specialities include oysters from the Bassin de Thau. Pélardon is associated with the cuisine of Languedoc-Roussillon. For wine enthusiasts, Corbières is one of the appellations associated with Languedoc. Culinary themes thus complement the region’s landscapes and cultural experiences with another way to discover the area.
Choose a Focus for Your Hotel Search
When looking for accommodation, you can use your own interests as a starting point: the coast and water sports, cultural heritage, the Causses and mountains, or activities in the foothills of the CĂ©vennes each offer a different focus. If water sports on the Bassin de Thau are important to you, also keep possible seasonal availability in mind.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Aude, Gard, Hérault, Lozère, Pyrénées-Orientales, Aquitaine, Ile-De-France, Rhône-Alpes.
Go to the main travel overview: France.
