HIGHLIGHTS

Join a donkey trek in the Parc National des Cevennes
Take a boat trip along the Canal du Midi
Marvel at the size and the breathtaking splendour of the Pont du Gard
Navigate a canoe through the Gorges du Tarn
Step back in time in the amphitheatre at Nimes

Languedoc-Roussillon

Languedoc-Roussillon is a region of contrasting landscapes from clean, sandy beaches, perfect for family holidays to a more rugged hinterland more suitable for trekking and mountain biking.

Montpellier is the capital of the area and enjoys a reputation for being a lively, fast-growing city with a striking collection of museums and a superb public transport system.

Two striking testimonies to the Roman influence in the region are the Pont du Gard and the amphitheatre at Nimes. The 2,000 year old Pont du Gard was the highest bridge, peaking at 49 metres, that the Romans ever built and was originally constructed to carry water to Nimes. At Nimes, all roads lead to the oval arena of the magnificent amphitheatre, which accommodates up to 25,000 spectators and is still used today for concerts and bullfights.

For a taste of medieval history a visit to the citadel of Carcassone is an absolute must. This perfectly restored medieval town sits on top of a steep slope above the River Aude with its turrets and ramparts overlooking the Basse Ville below.

Further inland is the Haut Languedoc region with its more mountainous terrain providing challenging walking trails for lovers of the great outdoors. The Parc National des Cevennes with its spectacular fauna and flora, makes a perfect venue for enthusiastic hikers or the Gorges du Tarn provide all the requirements for a first-rate canoeing experience.

The Catalan heritage in Roussillon is evident everywhere from the popularity of bullfights and paella to the brightly painted facades of the houses.