Hiking
Keen hikers will find a wealth of trails of varying difficulty all over the Languedoc, from coastal paths and routes that follow the meandering River Orb to the picturesque tracks around the Gorges du Tarn. For experienced hikers, the Cathar Trails offer spectacular views of the Pyrenees and a chance to discover the ancient fortresses and the extraordinary history of this religious group.
Cycling
Languedoc-Roussillon’s most famous cycleway is that which runs alongside the Canal du Midi as it winds through Carcassonne and Narbonne to the coast. There’s also the Voie Verte, a converted railway line that runs through Upper Languedoc, and the Way of St. James, an ancient pilgrim route that is becoming more popular as a cycle trail.
Canoeing
One of the best ways to experience the Languedoc during summer is on its waterways. Canoeing or kayaking trips are great for families as the rivers are relatively shallow and provide the opportunity to discover stunning gorges, lush countryside and sandy beaches. Trips can last from two to six hours.
Wine tasting
As France’s largest wine region, Languedoc-Roussillon is the perfect place to engage in the less energetic activity of wine tasting! The huge number of grape varieties and blends are brought to life by the enthusiastic winemakers, who take a more innovative approach to their craft than more northerly producers.
Cities
No visit to the Languedoc is complete without a trip to one of the great cities. Most famous is Carcassonne, whose citadel was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Overlooking the River Aude, it has a fairytale silhouette with rounded turrets and ordered battlements. Situated between the Cévennes and the Mediterranean coast, historic Nîmes was once a key Roman outpost and still boasts preserved monuments such as an amphitheatre and the renowned Pont du Gard.
Water sports
Sailing, diving, kite surfing ¬– the long, sandy beaches and crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean have lots to offer both thrill seekers and those who prefer gentler activities. Water sports centres are dotted along the coast and cater for all ages and abilities, making these pursuits accessible to families and individuals.
This article was written by Charlotte Carlton, Travel Marketing Manager at Belle France. Belle France offers a range of walking and cycling trips in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. For more information, please visit: bellefrance.com
