The Languedoc-Roussillon region of France is an undiscovered gem filled with a stunning coastline, one of the best cuisines in France, rich medieval history, and incredible architecture. It also has spectacular historic Roman architecture. Bordering Provence, Languedoc-Roussillon is just as charming and beautiful, but less touristy and less expensive. Also, the most promising wines in France are from this region.
Originally, the name referred to langue d ‘ oc, the language of oc, and the region stretched from Bordeaux, on the west coast, and from Lyon in central France, to Spain and into northwestern Italy. In January 2016, it joined a new region: Occitania, together with Midi-Pyrénées.
Major cities
Languedoc Roussillon may be one of the least densely populated regions in France, but it has several large and medium-sized cities that are unique, fascinating, and beautiful, including:
- Carcassonne: With an entire miniature city that is a castle, this is one of the best places in France. Try to avoid visiting in high season, but if you do, go early in the morning.
- Limoux: 25 kms (15 miles) south of Carcassonne, this is a pretty little town best known as the true birthplace of the first sparkling wine, Blanquette.
- Montpellier: a large charming city in the south of France and a university dating back to the Middle Ages.
- Nimes: a city known for its wonderful Roman remains and the Arena where you can see gladiators fighting and chariots racing in two spectacular shows.
- Perpignan: another great city with Catalan uniqueness located a few minutes from Spain. Be sure to travel south to the picturesque Côte Vermeille.
Get there
You can easily access Languedoc by flying to Montpellier, Barcelona, Perpignan, Nice or Paris and taking a train or rental car to the Languedoc region. With a Europe or France rail pass, you can take the train to Sete, Montpellier, Carcassonne or Perpignan stations, among other places in the Languedoc region.
If you really want to explore the charming little towns, the Pyrenees landscape and the Languedoc countryside, consider renting a car.
Main attractions and things to do
There is no shortage of attractions in the Languedoc, and it has activities to interest a wide range of tourists, from lovers of wine, architecture, and history, to people interested in pristine beaches, nude resorts, or ancient Roman ruins. Some must-see places in the region include:
- Cathar Country – Spanning various Cathar ruins, castles, cities and towns, Cathar is rich in history. Be sure to visit Montsegur, where the Cathars made their last stand against the Crusaders in 1244.
- Cap d’Agde: considered the mecca of nudism in the world and with a small closed nudist village.
- La Cité in Carcassonne: a fortified medieval village within the walls of this city.
- Place de la Comédie in Montpellier – A vast, bustling square dotted with cafes, historic buildings, and open-air markets.
Where to stay
Languedoc is home to various hotels and accommodation for all budgets. Here are some recommendations.
If you have the means, there are few hotels in Languedoc to compete with the luxury and atmosphere of the four-star Hôtel de la Cité in Carcassonne, with its fabulous views over the fortified walls.
Le Donjon in Carcassonne is cheap, you are in the heart of La Cité and you will feel that you have entered the Middle Ages.
The 4-star boutique Villa Duflot in Perpignan is lush and luxurious.
The Hotel Eve, the only hotel in the Cap d’Agde naturist neighborhood, is for those who like to throw caution to the winds.
