Languedoc on the map of France. Open left menu Languedoc-Roussillon. Historical region of Languedoc

Languedoc-Roussillon is one of the most colorful regions of France, carefully preserving its centuries-old traditions and rapidly developing as one of the modern seaside resorts. It is located on the very coast of the Mediterranean Sea next to the picturesque Provence and the mountainous region of the Midi-Pyrenees.

To visit here means to touch more than a thousand years of history, admire the incredible natural diversity, soak up the bright rays of the Mediterranean sun, enjoy real culinary masterpieces, and taste the best French wines.

Story

Surprisingly, such a region, rich in recreational opportunities, architectural heritage and unique cultural traditions, has been deprived of the attention of tourists for quite a long time. Initially, only lovers of educational recreation came to Languedoc, and only in the second half of the 20th century they seriously began to develop the resort infrastructure, trying to turn the local coastline, which has a specific beauty, into a new French Riviera. As a result, several large, fairly developed resorts have appeared, where the best conditions have been created for an unforgettable holiday with all kinds of entertainment, picturesque natural landscapes and interesting cultural and entertainment events.

Languedoc-Roussillon region

Beaches and resorts

Probably, the resort of Gruissan can be confidently called one of the most beautiful and unusual in the region. The fact is that it, and also Cap d'Aj, arose at the very foot of a volcano that has fallen asleep forever. Small private villas and cozy family-type boarding houses are located simply on the slopes of the mountains. But large hotel complexes with developed infrastructure are located closer to the shore. Here you can engage in all types of beach sports, go out on the open sea under sail or on a luxury rented yacht, scuba dive and admire the diversity of underwater life in the Mediterranean Sea.

Moreover, guests of the resort can enjoy numerous tastings in ancient wine cellars, where they also offer world-famous French cheeses. Great attention is paid to cultural events; dance evenings in the national style are often organized, as well as folk festivities in accordance with ancient local traditions.

If the main goal of your vacation is a beach holiday and walks in nature, you can safely go to the resort of La Grande Motte. It is here that the fairly wide coastline is strewn with the finest sand, and immediately beyond it begins an incredibly beautiful hilly area, where lakes with crystal clear water occur every now and then, for example, Lake Etang de To.

If you can’t imagine your holiday without all kinds of bars, small restaurants, souvenir shops and breathtaking attractions, go to the Lekat Barkare resort. It is located in a quiet harbor where ancient villas approach the sea.

Popular hotels in Languedoc-Roussillon

Entertainment and attractions in Languedoc-Roussillon

Perpignan and Montpellier will appeal to those who like to combine relaxation with easy shopping. Here you will find a lot of shopping centers and branded boutiques, where you can buy absolutely everything from a swimsuit to an evening dress. In addition, you will find cozy restaurants overlooking the sea, modern bars and nightclubs. But Montpellier will also amaze you with its ancient architecture, cozy squares with shady alleys and numerous fountains. Here you can visit the city's museums, visit the library, opened hundreds of years ago, and also sit in the square in front of the majestic St. Peter's Cathedral.

Carcassonne

The small town of Carcassonne will forever enchant you with its historical center, securely hidden behind two impregnable walls of an ancient fortress, will amaze you with the power of the ancient fort, and will also pleasantly surprise you with its vineyards and wine collections in cool cellars. And for those who find this not enough, they are offered to watch a bullfight - a spectacle that has never left anyone indifferent.

Carcassonne

Perpignan and surroundings

It is also worth visiting such large cities in the region as, for example, Perpignan, where many ancient fortresses and cathedrals have been preserved, and in their vicinity there are villages where you can see wooden fortified houses built back in the 17th century. You should definitely visit Elna, the town of Prat de Mollo, lost in the Pyrenees mountains, the picturesque quarters of Céret, and the Romanesque abbey of Sainte-Marie, built in the 14th century in the vicinity of Arles-sur-Tèche. And be sure to visit Nîmes, the city where denim was invented and where one of the most unusual aqueducts in the world is located.

And don’t forget to visit numerous natural parks, where juniper groves border marshlands, volcanic mountains border the sea coast, and up to three hundred species of rare birds nest in picturesque river deltas, including the pink flamingo.

The French region of Languedoc-Roussillon is one of the most colorful provinces of France, carefully preserving its centuries-old history, and also rapidly developing as one of the modern beach resorts .

In fact, the region is located on the Mediterranean coast, adjacent to picturesque Provence and the mountainous province of Midi-Pyrenees.

This area has long been famous for its history, picturesque natural diversity, the bright rays of the Mediterranean sun, as well as culinary masterpieces French cuisine and fine wines.

Historical region of Languedoc

The historical region of Languedoc is located in the southern part of ancient Occitania (the general name for the regions of modern Provence, Drome, Auvergne, Limousin, Gascony and Languedoc, in which the Occitan language is spoken).

For the French, Languedoc is more than just a geographical region - it is one of the historical places of formation of modern France, which still retains many characteristic national features, and therefore has a certain degree of conservatism and a clear sense of national identity.

Considering the fact that the Occitan language has practically fallen into disuse in our time, without any literary support, local residents still try in every possible way to emphasize their formal independence from Paris, and Languedoc itself is traditionally considered the main stronghold of radical left (and, more surprisingly, extreme right too) parties.

As a result, several fairly large resorts appeared, where they created the best conditions for a complete and, most importantly, unforgettable vacation with all kinds of entertainment, picturesque natural landscapes and exciting cultural and entertainment events.

Beaches and resorts of the Languedoc-Roussillon region

The local resort of Gruissan, without exaggeration, can be considered one of the most beautiful and colorful places in the region. This is due to the fact that it, and also Cap d’Aj, arose at the very foot of a volcano that has fallen asleep forever. Small private villas and cozy family-type boarding houses are located simply on the slopes of the mountains.

But large hotel complexes with developed infrastructure are located closer to the shore. Here you can engage in various types of beach sports, go out to sea under sail or on a luxury rented yacht, scuba dive and admire the diversity of underwater life in the Mediterranean Sea.

In addition, resort guests can expect numerous tasting events in ancient wine cellars, where, in addition to wine, they also offer world-famous French cheeses. Also, great attention is paid to cultural entertainment; dance parties in the national style are often held and folk festivals are organized according to ancient local traditions.

If the main goal of your vacation is a beach holiday and walks in nature, then you can safely go to the resort of La Grande Motte. It is here that the widest coastline of the region is located, strewn with the finest sand, and immediately beyond it begins an unsurpassed hilly terrain, where lakes with crystal clear waters are found over and over again.

If you like a holiday with a variety of bars, small restaurants, souvenir shops and breathtaking attractions, then go to the Lekat Barkare resort. It is located in a quiet harbor where ancient villas approach the sea.

Sights of Languedoc-Roussillon

The local cities of Perpignan and Montpellier will surely appeal to those who like to combine relaxation with easy shopping. Here you will have a great opportunity to choose among a mass of shopping centers and branded boutiques, where you can buy almost everything, from swimsuits to evening dresses. In addition, luxurious restaurants with sea view, stylish bars and modern night clubs .

Carcassonne is a French town located in the department of Aude in the Languedoc-Roussillon region, which is a prefecture of the department. Carcassonne is divided into an old and a new city. The old, fortified city stands on a rocky hill and is surrounded by two walls dating from the 5th and 13th centuries. In 1997, the medieval architectural ensemble was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The small town of Carcassonne will amaze you with its historical center, securely hidden behind two impregnable walls of an ancient fortress, will charm you with the power of the ancient fort, and will also pleasantly surprise you with vineyards and wine collections in cool cellars. And for those who find this not enough, they will be offered to watch a bullfight (bullfight), a spectacle that has never left anyone indifferent.

It is also worth visiting such large cities in the region as, for example, Perpignan, where many ancient buildings have been preserved, including fortresses and cathedrals, and in their vicinity there are villages where you can see wooden fortified houses built back in the 17th century .

In addition, you should definitely visit Elne, the town of Prat de Mollot, lost in the Pyrenees mountains, the picturesque quarters of Céret, and the Romanesque abbey of Sainte-Marie, built in the 14th century in the vicinity of Arles-sur-Tèche. And be sure to visit Nîmes, the city where denim was invented and where one of the most unusual aqueducts in the world is located.

And don’t forget to at least take a look at the numerous natural parks, where juniper groves border on marshy areas, volcanic mountains border on the sea coast, and up to 300 species of rare birds nest in picturesque river deltas, including the pink flamingo.

More photos of attractions in the Languedoc-Roussillon region here: Photo gallery

Being a kind of socio-cultural core from which the development of the country proceeded. This is a fertile region that extends from the Rhone River delta to the border with the sultry region. 300 sunny days a year, gorgeous beaches, secluded lagoons and ancient cities protected by UNESCO as a valuable cultural heritage, made Languedoc-Roussillon in France a wonderful holiday destination and provided an almost continuous flow of tourists from different countries.

Resorts of Languedoc

Favorable climatic and natural conditions of the coast served as the starting point for the formation of a network of comfortable resorts with developed infrastructure.

Sights of Languedoc-Roussillon

A region with such a rich historical past is remarkable in itself. Thus, in its capital, Montpellier, the historical center has been perfectly preserved to this day, the architecture and cultural traditions of which deserve unconditional attention. But the most popular sites among tourists were and remain the castles of Languedoc, which are worth describing in more detail.

Peyrepertuse Castle is the ruins of a Qatari fortress located on an 800-meter steep cliff of the Pyrenees mountain system. It consists of two citadels - upper and lower, connected by a staircase. Construction of the castle began in the 11th century and since then it has become a reliable strategic site, losing its importance only in the 17th century. In 1820 it was transferred to the state and later included in the list of historical monuments. Nowadays it is an object actively visited by tourists.

Aguilar Castle is the center of the fortification concept of the Middle Ages. The castle was surrounded by two monumental walls with loopholes, which ensured the security of the fortress. It was first mentioned in historical documents in 1021. It lost its relevance as a defensive structure in 1659 with the signing of the truce between France and Spain.

The Chateau de Lunéville is a palace and park ensemble representing a “little Versailles”, which appeared in 1706 by order of Duke Leopold of Lorraine.

Castle De Florac - built in the 13th century and has had many owners throughout its existence. After the end of the religious wars, it was rebuilt and during the revolution it was used for storing and selling salt. In 1976 it was restored and became part of the Cevena National Park.

The joyful and welcoming region of Languedoc-Roussillon is located in the south of France, bounded by the Massif Central to the north and the Pyrenees to the south. Its shores are washed by the Mediterranean Sea, there are many resorts with wonderful sandy beaches. In the small towns of the region, the historical heritage has been carefully preserved: castles, cathedrals, palaces and mansions of the French aristocracy. This is one of the largest wine-growing regions in the world. Wine production here began in the 3rd century BC. The vineyards cover an area of ​​approximately 400 thousand hectares.

It’s easy to guess from the double name that these were previously two different regions: Languedoc and Roussillon. And although politics and commerce have woven them together, they have remained distinct in terms of geography and culture.

The region is only three hours away from Paris by high-speed TGV train.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is able to surprise tourists with its lively fabulous paintings. Numerous defensive towers and jagged ancient defensive walls are stunning in their grandeur. This medieval city fortification is incredibly well preserved and well worth a look. The castle was built on a wide hill 148 meters high; for the Middle Ages it was an advantageous strategic location. Carcassonne has an elliptical shape and is surrounded by a double chain of thick defensive walls with 54 towers. The fortifications, partly dating back to the French Gothic period, were erected during the reign of Louis IX, in 1250, and under Philip Bald, in 1280. Every July, Carcassonne invites tourists to an unforgettable

Montpellier

Montpellier is the main tourist center of the region. It is located near the Lez River, in its valley. The city is separated from the Mediterranean Sea by 10 kilometers. It is the administrative center of Occitanie. Here nature has created ideal conditions for growing grapes. Travelers are attracted by the elegant buildings, grand squares and mild Mediterranean climate. There are many universities in this vibrant city. In the 13th century it belonged to the kings of Aragon, and in the 16th century it was the capital of the Huguenots; today it is the center of French culture. There are art galleries and museums here. The city's main museum, Fabray, houses an exceptional collection of works by Italian, Dutch and French painters from the Renaissance to modern times. A walk through the narrow streets of Montpellier will allow you to admire medieval houses. The most suitable area for a leisurely walking tour is Esplanade Charles de Gaulle in the east of the Old Town.

Céret

The town of Céré is a 32 km drive south-west of Perpignan in the delightful countryside of the Pyrenees foothills. This is a city of artists. At the beginning of the twentieth century, at the invitation of the sculptor from Catalonia Manolo and the composer Deodat de Severac, many famous painters moved to Céret, which has since turned into a creative settlement. Here, the Museum of Modern Art houses a surprisingly rich and magnificent collection of works by modern masters for a small town: Matisse, Chagall, Maillol, Dali, Manolo, Picasso and Tàpies.

Narbonne

This is a former important port of the Roman Empire, and now a small seaside town. A special attraction of Narbonne is the central square surrounded by majestic buildings. A magnificent collection of paintings, enamels, furniture and ceramics is exhibited at the Museum of Arts and History, which is housed in the 13th-14th century archbishop's palace. The Museum of Archeology is also located there, where classical, prehistoric and medieval exhibits are kept. Worth visiting are the Old and New Palaces of the 12th and 14th centuries, the impressive structure of the Saint-Just Cathedral, built in 1272-1332, which represents northern French Gothic architecture. Tourists will hear the magnificent singing of a choir under its arches and see a stained glass window from the 14th century. The building of the Saint-Paul-Serge Church of the 12th century, erected in the early Gothic style, is located in the southwestern part of the city.

Amélie les Bains

The resort town, which is located in a picturesque valley, owes its name to the wife of King Louis Philippe. Even the ancient Romans noted the value of mineral water from a local natural spring. Among the attractions you should visit are the ruins of ancient Roman baths and a 10th century church. Every August, an international folklore festival of music and dance of the peoples of the world takes place here.

Arles-sur-Tech

This is a small picturesque ancient town near the peak of Puig de l'Estelle, on the territory of which is Sainte-Marie, founded in the 8th century. Over time, a city appeared around it. In the abbey church you can see ancient sarcophagi, the oldest of which dates back to the 4th century century. The early Gothic monastery of the 13th century looks beautiful and elegant. The parish church building near the abbey impresses with its tower and rich interior decoration. It is worth taking a walk to the De la Fou gorge and enjoying the stunning natural views.

Abbey of Saint Martin du Canigou

The picturesque location and long history of the monastery of St. Martin attract tourists here. It looks like a fortress and was built over an abyss at an altitude of 2785 meters - on the top of a sheer cliff. The stunning landscapes and the historic monastery church delight visitors. This Romanesque abbey is famous for its 11th-century monastery. The view from the top of the hill allows you to calmly contemplate the beauty of the Languedoc-Roussillon province.

Prades

This small but picturesque town is located in the Teth Valley, near the foot of Le Canigou mountain. It is only 44 km away from Perpignan. Prades is located within the Catalan Regional Natural Park. This city is culturally linked to neighboring Catalonia. The border with Spain is guarded by a fortress on Mount Mont-Louis, its author is the great architect Vauban. The Gothic Cathedral of St. Pierre stands out among other attractions with its Romanesque tower and paintings by 17th-century Catalan artist Leo Polge. The famous cellist Pablo Casals (1876-1973) lived here in exile. In his honor, a chamber music festival is held annually in Prada from July to August.

Aigues-Mortes

The historical city is known for its fortifications, which were built during the Middle Ages. It is adjacent to the territory of the Camargue nature reserve. It is surrounded by a rectangle of huge city walls, which have 15 towers and 10 gates. An architectural feature of Aigues-Mortes is its wide streets, which helped repel attacks. The best view of the city opens from its walls, and the narrow streets of the old city will help you plunge into the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Aigues-Mortes is one of the most impressive cities in the Languedoc-Roussillon province.

Having visited Languedoc, tourists note its attractive power. This is the oldest viticulture region, and the natural conditions are favorable for growing sunny grapes. The mild climate increases the sugar content of the berries.

Languedoc wine is admired by people all over the world. The unique properties of the soil give the drink a special taste. It has won universal recognition; people don’t drink it, they eat it and experience great pleasure. The city and its surroundings are the best places for walking during the high summer season.

Road from Paris

Languedoc-Roussillon (France) enjoys great attention from residents and guests of the city. It is located in the south of the country, surrounded by mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Getting to know the historical region begins with exploring 2 provinces that are easy to find on the map of France - the Southern Pyrenees and Languedoc.

Mandelieu is also of interest to vacationers. The Paris-Languedoc route is especially popular among tourists. Getting to the capital is not difficult: flights are operated by an Air France airliner. The plane departs daily from Charles de Gaulle airport. Then tourists continue their journey by tram or taxi.

The Languedoc Canal is a waterway connecting the Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea. For residents and guests of the French land, the most convenient route is one that starts near the city of Beziers and ends near unique waterfalls.

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Guide to Paris and France

During the journey, dams, poplars, bridges and dams float past. From a height of 190 m there is a magnificent view. Tourists have long chosen the Canal du Midi in Languedoc-Roussillon for relaxation - attractions are found at every step, and local residents introduce guests to folk traditions.

The Canal du Midi (South) is a true work of art and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Peninsula of Brittany (bretagne) in France

In the Cevennes and on the coast

The plateaus near the Alps belong to a region dominated by medium-high altitudes and developed sports tourism. French villages are located along the massive ridge. The eastern edge of the Massif Central (Cevennes) is the center of gliding sports.

The highest peak of the mountains is Finel Peak, located at an altitude of 1699 m above sea level. The Roussillon region (France, Languedoc) is interesting for its tourist route, laid between the industrial city of Anduze and the mountain range. At its foot is a garden decorated in Japanese style. Travelers are delighted by the magnificent landscapes that can be seen in the photo in the guidebook.

The coastal area is one of the most picturesque places. Tourists like the appearance of the resort. Guests of the city combine many hours of walks with swimming in the sea and sightseeing, and enjoy fine wines. Comfortable hotels are available for vacationers.

The Tarn Gorge is located in the Koss Mountains. From here you have a magnificent view of the rushing river. A fresh wind blows through numerous caves. Their inspection allows you to get an indelible impression associated with the grandeur and inaccessibility of the harsh communities. In the ruins of Castelbu Castle there is an exhibition dedicated to the Templars. Tourists can take photos of the most beautiful gorge.

Presence of antiquity

Magne Tower (Tour Magne)

The pride of Languedoc is the Tour de Magnes tower, rising on an octagonal base. The second tier is decorated in the best architectural traditions. After reconstruction, various exhibitions are held here. The interior of the room combines the relationship between the secular and the spiritual in Gothic culture.

Chenonceau Castle

Lake Airol attracts the attention of travelers. Near the shore you can find small crabs, shrimp, clams, and mussels. The stay near the reservoir ends with traditional fishing. Most of the lake has been turned into a kind of nature reserve, and in the north there are salt marshes.

If you look at the photo Cathedral of St. Nazarius, then you can see an impressive and massive building, made in the Gothic style. The square tower, 48 m high, looks unusually impressive. The largest bell indicates the religious purpose of the building.

Lake Airol

Cathedral of St. Nazarius

Visiting Dionysus

The ancient French wine region is located along the Mediterranean coast. Natural conditions are favorable for growing amber clusters. The Coteaux du Languedoc wines are produced in a territory that includes 260 communities. To create first-class drinks, the varieties Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Grepache are used.

Dry red wine has high quality and unique aroma. Guests of the city get acquainted with the areas where the best grape varieties are grown: Fitu, Minervois, Cotes du Roussillon. Winemaking is developed in the Corbieres region of the Aude department. Excursions are organized for city guests to get acquainted with the plantations of amber berries.

Dry red wine has a deep pink color and can be stored for a long time. It is in demand among French residents and tourists coming on vacation. White wine contains valuable microelements and antioxidants, making it healthy.

The cellars of the town of Frontignan are filled with a magnificent sunny drink. The ancient grape variety was brought to France in 1204. Experts are expanding the area under cultivation, and Languedoc is the best wine-growing region in France. The pride of the creators of the aromatic drink is nutmeg, which is tasted from special wine glasses. Tourists get acquainted with the technology of growing crops and the rules for serving the drink to the table. Dry red wine has an amazing aroma and unique taste.

Amiens Cathedral

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