tourist attractions in herault france

Top 10 places to visit when you are in the Hérault

The Hérault department in the South West of France is such a diverse region. Of course there is the beach, but the hinterland is also worth discovering. Historical towns, charming villages, magnificent natural parks: it’s all waiting for you to explore! Not to forget the numerous activities you can do. Besides hiking, biking and swimming, why not try kayaking, stand-up paddling, canyoning or rock climbing, for a change? Here is a top ten to help you enjoy the beautiful Hérault department to the max. And if you search for ‘Hérault’ on the blog, La Ramoneta will show you many more places of interest!

1. Montpellier

If you could be in love with a city, it would be Montpellier for me. I could write an entire blog just about Montpellier. The instant Mediterranean vibe, the historical centre with its narrow streets, the numerous, cosy squares hosting the best terraces, the countless cool restaurants and bars, and so much more. I love it!

2. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert

Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is situated in the ‘ Parc Naturel Régional du Haut-Languedoc ’ and beautifully surrounded by wonderful countryside. I completely understand why this lovely village is listed as one of the most beautiful in France and even as a Grand Site de France and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Lac du Salagou

Lac du Salagou is an artificial lake and was built in the sixties to irrigate the surrounding agricultural fields. Because of the red earth around the lake, the landscape is often compared to the Arizona desert. In France! At and around the lake you can do all kinds of sporting activities. Swimming, of course, but also (mounting) biking, sailing, canoeing, to name a few.

Here’s a unique place I would never have discovered if it wasn’t for the knowledgeable people at Sète’s Tourism Office. They advised me to visit the quaint district of ‘ Pointe Courte ‘, to get to know the real heart and soul of Sète. This small fishermen’s neighbourhood lies in the north of Sète, between the Canal Royal and the Étang de Thau lagoon.

Things are happening in Béziers ! Whether you love strolling through picturesque little streets, having a glass of wine at one of the many terraces or indulging your curiosity for French history: it’s all here. Let me guide you through one of the oldest cities in France. I warn you, this list is just the beginning… There is so much more to discover!

6. Roquebrun

In summer, you can take a dip in the Orb River with the scenic picture-postcard view of Roquebrun in the background. We love to go here to escape the crowds on the beach, swimming while our children catch our evening meal. Not really, the fish are very tiny, but it keeps the kids busy for ages. Tip: bring your water shoes, to protect your feet from all the pebbles.

7. Assignan

Hidden in the inland of Languedoc and surrounded by vineyards and garrigue, lies charming Assignan . The tiny village has three fantastic restaurants that all merit a trip. First of all, there is the Michelin starred restaurant La Table de Castigno . Secondly, you will find slow food restaurant La Petite Table . And last, the wonderful Thai de Castigno .

8. Gorges d’Héric

In summer, the beautiful Gorges d’Héric in the heart of the ‘ Parc Naturel Régional du Haut-Languedoc ’ are well worth a visit. Perfect for a swim in the river and the naturally formed rock pools. Only for the brave though, as the water is cold as ice, even in the summer! To round off the day, you will find plenty of wonderful places to spread your picnic blanket.

9. Cirque de Mourèze

The landscape at Cirque de Mourèze is amazing. This beautiful valley lies between the Orb and Hérault rivers. Dolomite rock columns spread out like some sort of labyrinth, with fanciful rocks ranging from 170 to 530 meters high. You can let your imagination run wild with the strange rock formations- a fun game to play with children.

10. Minerve

When you drive up the winding roads to  Minerve , this beautiful spot and its stunning landscape will overwhelm you. Minerve is an ancient Cathar fortress and is surrounded by gorges that eroded from where two rivers La Cesse and Le Brian come together. Minerve is very well-preserved, and it will take you straight back to the Middle Ages with its winding, cobbly roads.

• Cirque de Mourèze
• Gorges d'Héric
• Lac du Salagou
• Montpellier
• Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert

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Visit the historic Herault department in Southern France

• Last updated on 08 February 2023 .

Written by Go Languedoc.

Herault department South of France

The Herault department is located on the Mediterranean coast in the Occitanie region in Southern France. Provence is located to the North and the Spanish border is 1 hour to the South.

Herault is bordered by the Gard department to the North, the Aude department to the South and the Aveyron and Tarn departments to the West.

The Herault covers 6,224 km 2  and has a population of 1.1 million people. Nearly 30% of the population is retired and the Herault has become an important destination for people from Northern Europe and Northern France to retire to. Just under 20% of the houses in Herault are second homes and many people are attracted by the Mediterranean climate, with long hot summers and short mild winters.

The Herault has 90 km of beaches - with l'Espiguette Plage, Marseillan Plage, Rochelongue Plage, Vias Plage and Serignan Plage being the best beaches to visit. 

The Herault is home to 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites ( Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert , the Canal du Midi and Causses-et-Cévennes ); a National Park ( Parc Naturel Régional du Haut-Languedoc ) and 2 Great sites in France ( Gorges de l'Hérault and Cirque de Navacelles ).

History of Herault department France

For a long period of history, the Herault department was a quiet back water of France. The tough terrain, mosquitoes and poor soil put off all but the most intrepid explorers. The Romans came and went and the peace and tranquillity was occasionally threatened by the the odd Religious Crusade, firstly against the Cathars in the 13th Century and then against the Hugenots in the 16th Century.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the wine production in the Herault was devastated by a slump in sales combined with disease affecting the vines. Thousands of small scale wine producers revolted due to the deprivation caused, but this revolt was suppressed very harshly by the government of Georges Clemenceau. In 1956 a damaging frost also wiped out virtually all of the olive trees in the region.

Today, the Herault department has a rapidly expanding population. Since the 1960s, the population of Herault has nearly doubled to 1.16 million. During the second half of the 20th century the Montpellier area underwent one of the most rapid population increases experienced anywhere in France and today it remains the most popular city in France for people to move to.

Tourist attractions in the Herault department, France

Montpellier : is the regional capital of Languedoc and is situated in the north of the Herault department. It is the fastest growing city in France, with many new bio-tech and medical industries growing up around the two universities in the City. Located just 10 kms from the Mediterranean coast, Montpellier combines dramatic new architecture with its old centre full of narrow winding streets. Other highlights in the city include the internationally famous art gallery: Musée Fabre , a smaller version of the Arc de Triomf; Les Jardins des Plantes, a large Botanical gardens;  the Champs de Mars, a huge park containing promenades; and Le Corum, which houses a new Opera house and an exhibition centre. and other sites.

Agde : was first settled by the Greeks and this small city has an attractive riverside, old streets, and a nice daily market.

Béziers : is a traditional Languedoc city which expanded rapidly during the 19th Century on the back of the regional wine trade. Beziers is starting a bit of a renaissance, with the centre of the town undergoing many refurbishments. The cathedral at Beziers provides some amazing views over the Orb valley. Beziers is also home to perhaps the biggest and certainly the liveliest festivals in the South of France ( Feria Beziers festival ).

Sète : the old fishing port of Sete, is built around a rocky promontory. The Old town is bisected by canals and here you will experience the unique sport of water-jousting, held in the summer months, beaches, boat trips.

Pezenas : Walk the old streets of Languedoc's former capital. Once the stomping ground of Molliere and now a haven for antiques and a fabulous Saturday market. Pezenas is probably the prettiest large town in the South of France (although Uzes and Sommiers may have something to say about that!). We just love wandering around the market on a Saturday and taking a detour off into the old Jewish quarter with the jewellers, cafes and boutiques. It is no wonder that Pezenas is such a draw for people all year around. (see Pezenas tourism for more details).

Cirque de Navacelles: is a dramatic gorge in the North-Western part of the Herault. The gorge was formed by the River Herault eroding the rocks to form an Ox-bow lake.

Oppidum d'Enserune : once the site of an important Roman fort and villa, recent archaeological excavations have revealed remnants from a Gaul settlement pre-dating the arrival of the Romans. The site offers a superb view over the Bassin de Montady - a wagon wheel pattern of fields - which it is believed was originally salt production site.

Noilly Prat : this famous Southern France dry vermouth is the key ingredient for a Martini drink and has been produced in the coastal town of Marseillan for over 200 years. The tour of the former Noilly Prat distillery also includes a visit to the famous Cocktail bar where you can blend your own cocktail.

Museum of Contemporary Art : situated in the town of Sérignan, close to the Mediterranean Sea, this modern art museum contains numerous temporary exhibitions and permanent collections of modern art.

Grotte des Demoiselles and Grotte des Clamouse  -  located close to the village of St Guilhem, these underground limestone caves are host to a wide variety of stalactites and unique mineral formations. The caves are a constant temperature of 14°C all year around.

Chateau Cassan  - a beautiful 18th Century Chateau that was built on the site of a former monastery. The 11th Century priory still stand next to the Chateau.

Abbey Valmagne  - a Cistercian abbey founded in 1139. The abbey houses an impressive Gothic Church and was an important location for wine making. The wines produced by the monks provided an important source of income and by the 14th Century the abbey was the richest monastery in south France.

Canal du Midi  - This Plane tree-lined canal that runs from Toulouse to the Mediterranean sea, is the largest UNESCO World heritage site on earth. The brain-child of Paul Riquet, a tax collector from Beziers, this mammoth civil engineering project was the most complex and greatest civil engineering undertaking since the time of the Romans.

Holiday accommodation to rent in Herault department

These are the 5 most popular holiday villa rentals in the Herault department on Go Languedoc. The villas all have different features and they cover all the different price ranges. But the feedback we get from customers and the fact that these are our most popular rental villas - with customers returning year after year - proves that they will provide you with the perfect holiday in South of France that you are looking for.

1.) Le Petit-Versailles villa Pezenas South France with private pool (Ref: 891)

€1950 per week in july & august 2023  • sleeps 6 • private pool • close to beaches • air con • good availability for summer 2023.

Le Petit Versailles is a lovely holiday villa in Pezenas South France with a private pool. This charming 3 bedroom villa sleeps 6 people very comfortably and is located on the outskirts of the medieval town of Pezenas.

The large swimming pool is 12m x 5m in size and surrounded by a large sun terrace with ping pong table.

Le Petit Versailles, as the name suggests, is set within meticulously maintained grounds - with mature Mediterranean plants, fountains and water features - that provide total peace and tranquillity.

The centre of Pezenas is a 5 mins drive or a brisk 20 mins walk. Bikes are available at the villa for your use.

The villa is equipped with 3 bedrooms (all with air conditioning), a family bathroom, a well-equipped kitchen and a spacious lounge with Wi-Fi and flat screen TV. There is private parking for 2-3 cars.

Sleeping 6 in comfort and located on the outskirts of the historic town of Pezenas in the Languedoc region South of France, this villa has become our most popular holiday villa rentals on  Go Languedoc  during the last 5-7 years. The parkland garden has been described by more that one customer as resembling ". . .  a mini-Versilles  . . ." and provides the space to truly unwind and relax.

Check prices & availability

2.) Villa Kengen Corconne villa rental with private pool France (Ref: 1448)

Villa Kengen is a fantastic villa rental property with private pool in South France. The holiday villa is located on the edge of the village of Corconne, near Montpellier. This wooden and stone villa comes with a fantastic views. The villa sleeps 8 guests very comfortably in its 4 bedrooms. The surrounding area is famous for olive oil production and good Languedoc wines. The villa is also close to the beautiful village of Sauve, full of restaurants and shops.

If you are looking for a villa rental in Southern France with views, a private swimming pool and plenty of space - then Villa Kengen ticks all the boxes. The villa is just 20 mins from Montpellier city centre, the main shopping centres and the Montpellier airport.

This villa near Montpellier, South France, is available to rent between April and October each year at a weekly rental price of between  €1850  and  €2500 per week .

   Check availability

3.) South France villa to rent with private pool Aumes near Pezenas sleeps 12 (Ref: 504)

€3200 per week july-aug 2023 • 5 bedrooms • private pool • beaches 10 mins.

This South France villa is laid out over 3 floors and provides 210 m² of living space. The main house has four bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. There is a self-contained Gite opposite the villa (which comes with a further bedroom and a sofa bed in the lounge). 

This is a great South France villa near the beaches and Pezenas for a large family or two families holidaying together.

Set amongst the vineyards this property is a great location for walking or cycling or visiting the other sites of the Languedoc region. The local beach at Meze is just 10kms away.

Available to rent from  €3200 per week  for 12 people.

4.) Le Manoir - large holiday rental retreat in South France sleeps 8 (Ref: 1856)

If you are looking for a large and luxurious rural retreat in Southern France, for a family reunion or special occasion, then Le Manoir could be perfect for you.

This large manor house in Southern France comes with 4 bedrooms, a private swimming pool and plenty of charm throughout. Inside the kitchen is large and luxurious. The lounge with its Cathedral ceiling is airy and bright and has plenty of space for 10-12 people. The Morning room is a nice quiet area to enjoy a cup of coffee or to curl up with a good book. All-in-all, this is the perfect base for a large family holiday or 2 families holidaying together. 

The house has several terraces and a fantastic pool area with summer kitchen and is in a quiet and peaceful location, yet is just a 5 minute drive to a well-equipped town. This luxury holiday rental is set on 6000m2 of land in a quiet wooded valley. 

The private swimming pool area, comes with a pool house complete with a bathroom, sofa area & summer kitchen. There is even a workout area for Yoga or Pilates. The views from the poolside are spectacular. 

The holiday rental is located just 40 mins from Montpellier airport and nearby you will find Michelin star restaurants and beautiful French market towns, such as  Pezenas  and  Clermont l'Herault .

This large holiday villa in South France for 16 people can be rented from  €5000 per week  during the summer weeks .

  Check availability

5.) Maison des Vins holiday villa with pool Montagnac South France (Ref: 501)

€1695 per week july & august 2023  • 15 mins to beach  • 3 bedrooms  • 3 bathrooms.

Maison des Vins is located in the small town of  Montagnac  near the Mediterranean coast and close to the historic town of  Pezenas  in South France.

The holiday home has a wonderful sunny garden with mature trees and plants, a private swimming pool and a terrace for dining al-fresco on those warm summer evenings. The private pool is ideal for lazing around and soaking up the sun.

If you are looking for cheap holiday villas in France with private pools, then this glorious property in Montagnac is the perfect place to spend some quality time in South France. The holiday home is located a short walking distance to a good choice of restaurants, shops, banks, a pharmacy and the weekly market etc. 

The area is well served by various transport routes, with both the A9 and A75 autoroutes passing close by; the TGV stopping 15km away; and Beziers airport just down the road. 

Where to stay and what to visit in Herault department in 2023 . . . ?

For further information, please visit:

• Our full collection of  Herault villas to rent in France  to rent in 2023
• Check out the  Weather in Herault France  during your stay
• Discover  Where to stay in Herault France  during 2023

Contact Tara by  Email  or by phone +33 7 89 44 15 14

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Tourism in the Hérault

Guide, holidays & weekends in the hérault, unmissable attractions.

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The 17 Best Places To Visit in Languedoc-Roussillon, France

Page Contents

Visiting Languedoc-Roussillon: what are the best things to do and see in this sublime region of South-East France?

Visiting the best places in the Languedoc-Roussillon region will keep you busy for several days because it extends over five departments: Aude, Gard, Hérault, Lozère, and pyrénées-Orientales. 

Today, this region no longer exists strictly speaking. During the territorial reform of 2014, it was coupled with the Midi-Pyrénées region, to give rise to the new Occitanie region.

But its emblematic name and the territories that compose it are still very present in people’s minds.

The region has an incredible diversity of landscape (and culture), due to its privileged location, located between the Cevennes, Pyrenees, Camargue, and Mediterranean Sea.

And this is what makes it a very popular destination for tourists, curious to be able to observe such contrasts.

Despite being more pleasant to visit in spring, Languedoc-Roussillon is equally enjoyable in the summer.

This allows you to enjoy less stifling temperatures and a much greener and flowerier nature than it is in the middle of summer!

Despite many things to do in Languedoc-Roussillon, we have tried to draw up a (non-exhaustive) list of must-sees to visit in the region. Follow!

1. Nîmes and its Roman remains

If you visit Languedoc-Roussillon, discover this ancient city bathed in sunshine. The so-called “French Rome” has the best preserved Roman remains in the country, thanks to which it was classified as a “city of art and history.”

The Arena,the Maison Carré, the Magne Tower and the Jardins de la Fontaine are of course must-sees. But Nîmes is also bustling pedestrian streets, dotted with fabulous museums and a recognized music scene.

Not to mention a strong bullfighting culture and gourmet culinary specialties!

2. Bamboo grove in the Cévennes d’Anduze

Let yourself be transported to this exceptional garden of 12 hectares, which hosts more than 240 varieties of Bamboo, Erables of Japan, Camellias, Ginkgos Biloba, or Sequoias centenarians…

The bamboo grove in the Cévennes is a place of escape, conducive to calm and relaxation, to do in Languedoc-Roussillon.

It is located very close to the pretty little village of Anduze, known for the manufacture of its terracotta vases.

3. The Petite Camargue

Looking for what to do in Languedoc-Roussillon? Above all, do not miss one of the most beautiful natural regions of the Mediterranean basin! The Petite Camargue is the Gard part of the Camargue.

Here, horses and bulls coexist in semi-freedom in the manades, with rice fields in the background. Not to mention the flamingos.

The sunset over the Pond of Ponant is probably one of the most beautiful things you will see in the region.

4. The Pont du Gard

This ancient masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see in Languedoc-Roussillon. The view of the aqueduct, with its three rows of arcades, which spans the Gardon majestically, is breathtaking.

5. The yellow train of the Pyrenees

Immediate boarding aboard the “Canary”! This is the nickname given to the Cerdanya Yellow Train, the highest meter-gauge railway in Europe. Located in the Pyrénées-Orientales, it is truly the emblem of the region.

It allows you to travel 63 km, between Villefranche-de-Conflent and Latour-de-Carol, in the middle of an exceptional environment, between mountains and Catalan valleys.

6. Montpellier, the Gifted

Impossible to visit Languedoc-Roussillon without going through its capital: Montpellier! There is no longer a lively student city with museums, historical buildings, and monuments to discover without moderation.

7. The Languedoc-Roussillon Wine Route

If there is one region that will delight wine lovers, it is Languedoc-Roussillon! This wine route winds its way through the Rhone Valley, passing through the Mediterranean coastlines, the Cévennes, and the Pyrenees.

You will then cross landscapes as varied as they are magnificent to discover the most famous appellations, such as the Coteaux du Languedoc, Saint-Chinian, or Pic Saint-Loup, among many others.

8. The Gévaudan Wolf Park in Lozère

Wondering what to do in Languedoc-Roussillon? We recommend the incredible park of the wolves of Gévaudan.

Located in Saint Lucia, near Marvejols, in Lozère, this 20-hectare animal park welcomes a hundred wolves living in semi-freedom. Come and learn more about this majestic animal in the heart of the legendary lands of Gévaudan.

9. “The coast that descends” in Lauriole

If you come to visit Languedoc-Roussillon, do not miss this curiosity, as fun as it is disturbing: “The road that goes up and down.” In Lauriole, in the Gard, you will find this road that seems to go up as it descends.

Have fun experimenting: leave your car in neutral in the middle of the slope, and you’ll see it go up! Multiple hypotheses, from the most rational to the most unpredictable, attempt to explain this mysterious phenomenon!

10. The citadels of Vertige in the Aude

The citadels of Vertige are unmissable in Languedoc-Roussillon. History and old stone lovers will love it!

These are seven castles, located in the Cathar country, all around the city of Carcassonne, with which they are historically linked.

They owe their “citadels of vertigo” to their steep position. Quéribus, Montségur, Puilaurens, Aguilar, Lastours, Termes, Peyrepertuse as well as the city of Carcassonne, are in the running to be on the UNESCO list.

11. The Hérault hinterland

The Hérault hinterland is absolutely to do in Languedoc-Roussillon. Indeed, this territory is full of sites, each more incredible than the next.

Among them, we can mention the majestic Pic Saint-Loup, the gorges of the Hérault, and the Pont du Diable, the archaeological site of Ambrussum or the sublime Buèges Valley.

Not to mention the charming villages of Pézenas, Olargues or Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert.

Don’t miss a day on the red land of Lac du Salagou, located very close to the fascinating Cirque de Mourèze. At Saint Bauzile de Putois, you can spend a magical moment in the Grotte des Demoiselles.

Go to the Cirque de Navacelles and then descend a little lower to the sources of the Vis, for a moment.

12. Stevenson’s path in the Cévennes

You are a sporty, hiking, and nature lover, and you are looking for what to do in Languedoc-Roussillon? So, follow in the mythical footsteps of Robert Louis Stevenson in the Cévennes.

The Stevenson road, now the GR 70, connects the Massif Central to the Cevennes valleys, over 272 km.

And for even more authenticity, take a donkey as a travel companion. It will help you carry your belongings along this mythical path through the Cévennes.

13. The Mediterranean coast

One of the unmissable activities to do in Languedoc-Roussillon is to come and sunbathe on one of the beaches of the Mediterranean coast.

215 km of coastline are available to you, spread over 4 departments. Discover the unmissable beaches of Cap d’Agde or Grande-Motte in the Hérault, or the town of Grau-du-Roi in the Gard, gateway to the Camargue.

In the Pyrénées-Orientales, the seabed of Cerbère will not leave you indifferent. And for lovers of sliding sports, go for a walk in Gruissan or Port Leucate in the Aude for a memorable kite session.

14. The Lerab Ling Temple in Larzac

Visiting Languedoc-Roussillon can also take a very exotic turn… By going to the Lerab Ling temple, you will be propelled to Tibet into Buddhist culture.

Located a few minutes from Lodève in the Hérault, this temple was built in 2006 in the traditional style of Himalayan temples. It is a high place of practice of Tibetan Buddhism in Europe, not to be missed.

15. The Côte Vermeille in the Pyrénées-Orientales

Just its name makes you want to go! Formerly called Côte du Roussillon, the Côte Vermeille owes its name to the shale rock’s reflections at sunrises and sunsets.

Stretching from Perpignan to the Spanish border, it is full of natural treasures and villages of character to visit. Among them, Collioure, Banyuls, and Port-Vendres are not to be missed.

A must-do if you are visiting Languedoc-Roussillon!

16. The Canal du Midi

Coming to visit the Languedoc-Roussillon, do not miss the oldest canal in Europe, still in operation. By bike, on foot, or aboard a barge, go up the canal that connects Sète to Toulouse, in a peaceful atmosphere, in the shade of plane trees.

The opportunity for you to discover a wide variety of landscapes during a unique moment.

17. Gastronomic specialties

Languedoc-Roussillon boasts an incredible diversity of landscape, a rich heritage, and some incredible typical villages. But it is also an opportunity to delight in the delicious gastronomic specialties of the region.

Between the cassoulet of Castelnaudary, the brandade of cod of Nîmes, the wine of the Corbières, the blanquette of Limoux, the Roquefort or the pelardon and the honey of the Cévennes, your taste buds will waltz!

How to get to Languedoc-Roussillon?

To come and visit Languedoc-Roussillon, flying can be convenient and fast. Montpellier Méditerranée is the largest airport in the region.

It is also possible to land in Perpignan, Béziers, Nîmes or Millau. Whatever your choice, do not hesitate to use a flight comparator like Skyscanner to find a flight at the best price.

The train remains a very convenient way to visit Languedoc-Roussillon, as many cities have a TGV station. This is the case of Montpellier and Nîmes, less than 3 hours from Paris.

You can also rent a car at one of these many stations in Avignon or Agde.

It is quite possible to reach the Languedoc-Roussillon by car or bus, thanks in particular to the A9motorway, says La Languedocienne. There are coach connections from many major cities in France.

Where to stay in Languedoc-Roussillon?

You are conquered, and you want to come and visit the Languedoc-Roussillon? As you have seen, there is a lot to do and see throughout the region, which spans 5 departments. It will therefore be essential to target an area to optimize your visits.

The cities of Nîmes and Montpellier are the “capitals” of two departments and are located in the center of the region, which can be convenient to shine.

As an alternative, seaside villages such as Sète, Agde, and La Grande-Motte can be quite pleasant, and they are also located in the center of the region. It will depend mainly on your desires and your itinerary…

One thing is certain; you will be spoilt for choice in the type of accommodation: hotels, guest houses, cottages, Airbnb, campsites, unusual accommodation … To help you, do not hesitate to use a hotel comparator!

Unless you let yourself be tempted by a road trip in a van or motorhome?

Let’s go, let’s go to Languedoc-Roussillon!

Al Amin Sagor

Hi, I'm Al Amin Sagor. Join me as I share travel tips, personal insights, and amazing experiences that have shaped my adventures. Let's explore together and make lasting memories.

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• Best of France
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• Best of rural France
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A short guide to Languedoc

 Main tourist attractions in Languedoc Roussillon

Attractions covering more than one department:

• Le Canal du Midi - (34,11) world's oldest commercial canal, built in 17th century. From Agde to Carcassonne, - and beyond to the Atlantic. Canal with shaded cycleway and footpath. UNESCO world heritage site.
• Les Cévennes : (30, 34) beautiful mountains, with steep wooded valleys. National Park area. Impressive caves .
• The Coast: (30, 34, 11, 66) plenty of beaches, marinas and small ports. Miles of sandy beaches, crowded in parts at times, but also including long expanses of fairly empty sand.
• Gorges du Tarn (12 - 48)  dramatic and deep gorge of the river Tarn, through the limestone rock of the Causses.

By department East to West Gard

• Bagnols sur Cèze (30) Musée Albert André. Fine collection of late 19th century French art, including works by Bonnard, Matisse, Marquet, Signac, Jongkind, Rodin and more.
• Nimes : (30) old city with narrow streets, and remarkable Roman remains, including the Arena and the Maison Carrée
• Le Pont du Gard: (30) UNESCO World Heritage site, impressive Roman aqueduct, just north east of Nimes.
• Aigues Mortes: (30) fully walled bastide town near the coast, once a port from which the Crusaders set forth. See walled cities
• The western part of the Camargue
• Train à vapeur des Cévennes: (30) Cevennes steam railway. From Anduze
• Uzès . Attractive small town north of Nimes, famous for the Castle of the Dukes, and the  Fenestrelle tower, a unique circular romanesque tower dating from the 12th century. The town also has the Haribo sweets museum.
• The Cevennes mountains, and National Park. A beautiful area of wooded hills and valleys, with open summits culminating in the Mont Lozère at 1699 metres (5574 ft) above sea level.
• La Lozère: (48) sparsely-populated upland area, with a dry climate, mountains, spruce forests and gorges...
• Montpellier: ( 34) regional capital, with old centre, the Musée Fabre, churches and other sites.
• Agde : attractive old small city, old streets, market, cathedral, waterfront.
• Béziers: (34) traditional Languedoc city, with old streets, churches and gardens.
• St.Guilhen le Désert (34) - small medieval city with romanesque abbey and ruined castle. Also the nearby Grotte de la Clamouse: magnificent stalacmites and stalagtites.
• Sète: (34) fishing and commercial port. Old town, beaches, boat trips
• Narbonne: (11) former Roman city, once the regional capital, with an impressive cathedral, underground Roman grain-store, and canalside quays.
• Carcassonne : (11) UNESCO World Heritage site, a historic city encircled by medieval ramparts. 
• Cathar country : a collection of fabulous medieval castles, veritable eagles nests perched on rocky crags, guarding over this once turbulent frontier region. Of special note are the castles of Quéribus and Puylaurens.
• Cathar country tourist train, departs from Rivesaltes near Perpignan, and rises to Axat in the Pyrenees.
• Sigean (11) African safari park: perhaps the best and the biggest (almost 700 acres) wildlife park in France (opened in 1974).
• The Canal du Midi: (34, 11)  UNESCO World Heritage site, the world's oldest major canal, opened in 1681, linking the Mediterranean and the Atlantic

Pyrénées Orientales

• Céret (66): Museum of Modern Art, with works by Picasso, Chagall, Matisse, Braque etc.
• Collioure & Banyuls : (66)  picturesque  small towns almost on the Spanish border, where the Pyrenees meet the sea. Harbourside château at collioure.
• Le Train Jaune : (66) take the train up into the Pyrenees, from near Perpignan. Spectacular scenery, and open-top wagons.
• Medieval heritage : There is a rich heritage of Romanesque and Gothic architecture in the department, with highlights at Elne, Serrabona, St. Martin du Canigou, Saint Michel de Cuxa and the stunning 12th century frescoes at St. Martin de Fenollar, near Le Boulou.

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in France

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lisa Alexander spent two years living in Paris after college, enjoys returning to France as often as possible, and most recently visited France in March 2023.

Take a dream vacation in a country that's full of dreamy destinations. Fairy-tale castles, storybook country villages, fashionable seaside resorts, snowcapped mountains, and of course Paris , the elegant City of Light.

Begin with the Eiffel Tower, the modern emblem of France. Then discover famous masterpieces of art at the Louvre Museum. Spend a day pretending to be royalty at the elegant Palace of Versailles. Save time for leisurely gourmet meals. Traditional French gastronomy has been inscribed on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Each region of France boasts its own distinctive cuisine and culture. The coastal region of Brittany offers the old-world charm of quaint fishing villages and ancient seaports, while the French Alps boasts a hearty cuisine of cheese fondue and charcuterie served in cozy chalets near ski slopes.

Every corner of the country has a certain magic. Discover the wonders of travelers' favorite places and learn about the best things to do with my list of the top attractions in France.

1. Eiffel Tower

2. musée du louvre, 3. château de versailles, 4. côte d'azur, 5. mont saint-michel, 6. castles of the loire valley, 7. cathédrale notre-dame de chartres, 8. provence, 9. chamonix-mont-blanc, 10. alsace villages, 11. carcassonne, 12. brittany, 13. biarritz, 14. rocamadour, 15. prehistoric cave paintings in lascaux, best time to visit france.

The Eiffel Tower is a feat of ingenuity as much as it is a famous landmark. This structure of 8,000 metallic parts was designed by Gustave Eiffel as a temporary exhibit for the World Fair of 1889. Originally loathed by critics, the 330-meter-high tower is now a beloved and irreplaceable fixture of the Paris skyline.

Upon the first glimpse, you'll be impressed by the tower's delicate airiness despite its monumental size. Next, the panoramas at each of the three levels will take your breath away.

You can dine with a view on the 1st floor or indulge at the Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne restaurant on the 2nd floor. At the exhilarating height of 276 meters, the top floor offers a sweeping outlook over the city of Paris and beyond. Vistas extend as far as 70 kilometers on a clear day.

The most prestigious museum in Paris, the Louvre ranks among the top European collections of fine arts. Many of Western Civilization's most famous works are found here, including the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, the Wedding Feast at Cana by Veronese, and the 1st-century-BC Venus de Milo sculpture.

The collection owes its wealth to the contributions of various kings who lived in the Louvre, in centuries past when it was a royal palace. Other pieces were added as a result of France's treaties with the Vatican and the Republic of Venice, and from the spoils of Napoléon I.

The Louvre displays around 35,000 artworks, including countless masterpieces. It's impossible to see it all in a day or even in a week. Take a private guided tour or focus on a shortlist of key artworks for the most rewarding experience.

The UNESCO-listed Château de Versailles immerses you in France's glorious regal history. Step back in time to the era of the ancien régime , when Louis XIV (the "Sun King"), Louis XV, and Louis XVI ruled France. During that period, the Palace of Versailles set the standard for princely courts in Europe.

The most spectacular space in the palace is the Hall of Mirrors , where courtiers waited for an audience with His Majesty. This dazzling gallery sparkles with sunlight that enters through the windows and is reflected off hundreds of ornamental mirrors, while dozens of glittering chandeliers and gilded details make the overall impression even more marvelous.

Versailles is equally renowned for Les Jardins , formal French gardens featuring decorative pools, perfectly trimmed shrubbery, numerous statues, and magnificent fountains. The gardens were created in the 17th century by renowned landscape designer André Le Nôtre and are surrounded by 800 hectares of lush parkland.

Beyond the formal gardens is the Domaine de Trianon , which includes Le Grand Trianon palace; Le Petit Trianon château; and Le Hameau de la Reine (The Queen's Hamlet), Marie-Antoinette's fabricated pastoral village featuring quaint cottages set around a lake.

The buildings of Marie-Antoinette's hamlet were inspired by the rural architecture of the Normandy region. (Faux pastoral hamlets were a typical feature of aristocratic estates during the 18th century.) The "farmhouse" and "cottage" buildings have a weathered finish that was intentionally rendered to lend a rustic look (although the interiors were exquisitely furnished).

Marie-Antoinette's hamlet originally had a working dairy and farm, which served educational purposes for her children. This idyllic spot was designed as a place for Marie-Antoinette to escape from the formality of court life, take walks, and visit with friends. Le Hameau de la Reine provides a rare glimpse of Marie-Antoinette's private world.

The most fashionable stretch of coastline in France, the Côte d'Azur extends from Saint-Tropez to Menton near the border with Italy. Côte d'Azur translates to "Coast of Blue," a fitting name to describe the Mediterranean's mesmerizing cerulean waters.

To English speakers, this glamorous seaside destination is known as the French Riviera , words that have a ring of sun-drenched decadence.

During summer, the seaside resorts cater to beach lovers and sun-worshippers. The rich and famous are also found here in their lavish villas and luxury yachts.

The town of Nice has panoramic sea views and stellar art museums but nothing beats the views from the hilltop village of Eze . Cannes is famous for its celebrity film festival and legendary Belle Epoque hotels.

The best sandy beaches are in Antibes , which also has an atmospheric Old Town and superb museums. Saint-Tropez offers fabulous public and private beaches plus the charm of a Provençal fishing village, while Monaco seduces with its exclusive ambiance and stunning scenery.

Rising dramatically from a rocky islet off the Normandy coast, the UNESCO-listed Mont Saint-Michel is one of France's most striking landmarks. This "Pyramid of the Seas" is a mystical sight, perched 80 meters above the bay and surrounded by imposing defensive walls and bastions.

The main tourist attraction, the Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel is a marvel of medieval architecture with soaring Gothic spires. You will be awed by the serene beauty of the Abbey Church, with its harmonious Romanesque nave and ornate high-vaulted choir.

Since it was built in the 11th century, the Abbey Church has been an important Christian pilgrimage destination, known as "The Heavenly Jerusalem." Modern-day pilgrims are still inspired by Mont Saint-Michel and continue the tradition of crossing the bay by foot as it was done in the Middle Ages.

Traveling through the Loire Valley gives the impression of stepping into a children's storybook. Turreted fairy-tale castles grace a luxuriant countryside of dense woodlands and gently flowing rivers. The entire Loire Valley, an area known as the "Garden of France," is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Some of the Loire castles are medieval fortresses built on hilltops and surrounded by ramparts. However, the most famous Loire châteaux are sumptuous Renaissance palaces that were designed purely for enjoyment and entertainment, as an extension of court life outside of Paris.

The Château de Chambord , built for King Francis I, is the most magnificent château; the Château de Chenonceau has a distinctive feminine style; and the Château de Cheverny is a Neoclassical-style manor house estate that includes a Tintin exhibition, English gardens, and a forest.

It is also worth visiting the UNESCO-listed cathedrals in Chartres and Bourges as well as the city of Orléans , where Joan of Arc helped defeat the English army in 1429, and the Château Royal d'Amboise , the residence of French kings for five hundred years.

For more than eight centuries, the magnificence of Chartres Cathedral has inspired the faithful, and some say this sublime sanctuary has restored belief in the doubtful.

The UNESCO-listed Chartres Cathedral is a marvel of Gothic architecture, renowned for its 12th- and 13th-century stained-glass windows. Covering 2,500 square meters, the brilliant windows allow colorful light to filter into the vast nave, creating an ethereal effect. The intricately detailed windows reveal the incredible craftsmanship in depicting biblical stories.

The rose windows are especially noteworthy for their incredible size and details. Other highlights are the Passion window, one of the most original in its style and expression, and the Blue Virgin window which dates from the 12th century.

On the third Saturday of September, the city of Chartres presents Chartres en Lumières (Festival of Light) during European Heritage Days . The festival includes street art, music, and guided tours. During this annual event, the Chartres Cathedral dazzles crowds with its colorful multimedia show featuring illuminations and sound. The illumination show also takes place at the cathedral in July and August every evening after 10pm.

Escape into a bucolic landscape of olive groves, sun-drenched rolling hills, and deep purple lavender fields, with little villages nestled in the valleys and perched on rocky outcrops. The vibrant scenery has enchanted many famous artists, including Cézanne, Matisse, Chagall, and Picasso.

The rustic natural beauty, country charm, and laid-back atmosphere of Provence allow the region's art de vivre (art of living) to flourish. Sultry weather encourages leisurely strolls along cobblestone streets and afternoons spent on sunny terraces of outdoor cafés.

Among the many attractions of Provence is its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, which is based on olive oil, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. You can choose from a wide range of culinary establishments, from family-run bistros to Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurants.

The quintessential Provençal town, Aix-en-Provence is famous for its colorful open-air markets and the hundreds of fountains that are typical of southern France. Fascinating ancient ruins and traditional festivals distinguish Arles , while the medieval city of Avignon is home to the UNESCO-listed Palais de Papes.

Even tiny villages, like Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Saint-Rémy, and Gordes, have amazing historic sites, fantastic museums, and an irresistibly quaint ambiance.

The awesome spectacle of Mont Blanc in the French Alps is an unforgettable sight. The highest mountain peak in Europe, Mont Blanc soars to 4,810 meters. Thanks to its elevation, Mont Blanc ("White Mountain") is always blanketed in snow.

Beneath its majestic peak is the traditional alpine village of Chamonix , nestled in a high-mountain valley. This delightful little town is filled with historic churches, traditional alpine restaurants, and charming auberges.

Chamonix is a great base for skiing, hiking, rock climbing, outdoor adventures, or just relaxing. The village is one of the best places to visit in France for inspiring natural scenery and alpine accommodations. Upscale mountain lodges and cozy chalets welcome guests in style.

Catering to diners with good appetites, local restaurants serve hearty meals typical of the Savoie region, as well as international cuisine. To sample the Savoyard specialties, try the charcuterie, fondue , and raclette (melted Gruyère, Comté, or Emmentaler cheese served with boiled potatoes).

Some of the prettiest villages in France are tucked away in the green, rolling hills of Alsace, where the Vosges Mountains border the Rhine River of Germany. These picturesque Alsatian villages feature pastel-painted, half-timbered houses clustered around small parish churches. Cheerful flowering balconies and pedestrian cobblestone streets add to the appeal.

Villages Fleuris and Plus Beaux Villages de France

Many of the villages have won France's Villages Fleuris award for their lovely floral decorations, such as Obernai , with its characteristic burghers' houses; the charming little village of Ribeauvillé , where many homes are adorned with potted flowers; the Pays d'Art et d'Histoire (Region of Art and History) of Guebwiller ; and the captivating medieval village of Bergheim .

Some of the flower-bedecked Alsatian villages are so pretty that they have been designated as both Villages Fleuris and Plus Beaux Villages de France (Most Beautiful Villages of France), including the storybook hamlet of Riquewihr and the enchanting village of Eguisheim , nestled in a valley. Another of the Plus Beaux Villages is Mittelbergheim , known for its gastronomy and gorgeous pastoral landscape, at the foot of the verdant Mont Saint-Odile.

If you're planning an Alsace vacation itinerary, Colmar is a good base to explore the Alsatian villages and surrounding nature trails.

With its turreted towers and crenelated ramparts, Carcassonne seems straight out of a fairy-tale scene. This well-preserved (and renovated) fortified city offers a total immersion into the world of the Middle Ages.

Known as La Cité , the UNESCO-listed walled medieval town of Carcassonne is a warren of narrow, winding cobblestone lanes and quaint old houses. Nearly every street, square, and building has retained its historic character. Within la Cité, the 12th-century Château Comtal reveals the Cathar heritage of the Languedoc region .

Must-see tourist attractions are the double-circuited ramparts with 52 towers and the Basilique Saint-Nazaire et Saint-Celse , which features splendid 13th-century stained-glass windows.

Carcassonne draws many visitors on July 14th for its fireworks show, to celebrate Bastille Day , a national holiday (Fête Nationale). Despite being a small town, Carcassonne presents one of the most dazzling July 14th fireworks displays in France.

The Brittany region in northeastern France brims with natural beauty and historic charm. A rugged coastline, quaint fishing villages, and weathered seaports characterize this region. The distinctive local culture is steeped in ancient traditions and famous for its costumed religious festivals.

A mystical land of myths and legends, Brittany has a Celtic influence and a dialect related to Gaelic. The local cuisine is based on seafood and is renowned for its savory buckwheat crêpes and sweet dessert crêpes.

The quintessential Breton port is Saint-Malo surrounded by 17th-century fortifications. Quimper is a picture-postcard town with handsome half-timbered houses, pleasant squares, and an impressive Gothic cathedral. Nantes has a spectacular château and is where the Edict of Nantes was signed in 1598 granting freedom of religious belief to Protestants.

Other highlights of Brittany are the pristine sandy beaches, tiny remote islands, and ancient castles. Belle-Île-en-Mer , the largest of the Breton islands, appeals to vacationers in search of a peaceful seaside setting. Ferry boats run from Quiberon, Port Navalo, and Vannes to Belle-Île-en-Mer.

This fashionable seaside resort has an elegant and aristocratic air; it was a favorite destination of Empress Eugénie , wife of Napoleon III. Empress Eugénie loved the beautiful setting on the Bay of Biscay in France's Basque country.

The imperial couple's grandiose Second Empire palace has been converted into the Hôtel du Palais Biarritz , a luxury hotel featuring a Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant and sensational views of the Grande Plage beach. This large sandy beach, with its broad seafront promenade, has attracted high-society vacation goers since the Belle Epoque.

Other must-see sights of Biarritz are related to the ocean: the Biarritz Aquarium ; the Lighthouse ; and the Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin of the Rock) which stands along the coastline on an immense rock beaten by the Atlantic's wild waves.

For a taste of the town's regal past, visit the chic Miremont tearoom that has served exceptional pastries since 1872.

Rocamadour resides between heaven and earth, suspended on a sheer limestone cliff as if providing a medium for spiritual wonders.

In the 11th century, this pilgrimage destination was the third most important in Christendom after Jerusalem and Rome. Rocamadour was on the medieval Chemin de Saint-Jacques (Way of Saint James) pilgrimage trail to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

The village has seven ancient sanctuaries, but pilgrims flock to the Chapelle Notre-Dame (Chapelle Miraculeuse), which possesses the venerated Black Virgin (Notre-Dame de Rocamadour). This precious Virgin Mary figure was carved from walnut wood that naturally darkened over the centuries and is associated with miracles.

Another must-see sight is the UNESCO-listed Basilique Saint-Sauveur , the largest church of Rocamadour built in Romanesque and Gothic styles between the 11th and 13th centuries. For a challenging spiritual experience, pilgrims can ascend the steep flight of steps, with 12 Stations of the Cross, leading up to the château at the highest point in the village.

About 145 kilometers from Limoges in the Limousin , Rocamadour is surrounded by the Parc Naturel Régional des Causses du Quercy , a natural park in the Dordogne region.

Discover the fascinating world of prehistoric art in Lascaux, the finest example of Paleolithic art in the world. This UNESCO-listed site is in the Vézère Valley of the Dordogne region . Discovered in 1940, the Lascaux Cave contains exquisite prehistoric paintings, but in 1963 was closed to the public to prevent damage.

A replica of the cave was created at the nearby Lascaux II site in Montignac, 200 meters from the actual cave. Opened in 1983, Lascaux II is a faithful reproduction of the Lascaux Cave and its paintings. The Paleolithic art has been carefully recreated, including every detail of the animal paintings in authentic ochre hues.

Opened in 2016, the sleek ultra-modern International Centre for Cave Art (also in Montignac) presents a complete replica ( Lascaux IV ) of the original Lascaux Cave along with museum exhibits that provide context for the prehistoric artworks. Virtual reality exhibits and a 3-D film help bring the prehistoric period to life.

Highlights of the Lascaux prehistoric cave paintings are the Salle des Taureaux (Hall of the Bulls) with panels featuring unicorns and bears and the Diverticule Axial , a narrow 30-meter-long hall with impressive drawings of bulls, cows, and horses. The art reproductions of the replica caves are so accurate that visitors would not be able to tell the difference from the original.

France appeals to travelers through the four seasons. For most tourists, the best seasons to visit are in the late spring, summer, and early autumn . Summertime is the most popular season because of school vacations and warm weather. Late spring and early autumn offer pleasant, mild weather and less crowds.

For those who appreciate beautiful gardens, spring and summer are the best seasons to visit France and especially Paris. One of the top day trips from Paris, Monet's Garden in Giverny is spectacular when tulips bloom in April, in May when wisterias bud, and in June when roses blossom. By July, the famous water lilies of Monet's paintings appear in the garden's pond.

In terms of warm weather and long days, summer is the best season to visit. The months of July and August are great for beach vacations on the French Riviera or the elegant resort of Biarritz on the Atlantic Coast. Outdoor sports enthusiasts enjoy the countryside of Provence, the Auvergne region , and the French Alps during summertime, when the sunshine and comfortable temperatures make hiking and boating enjoyable.

For budget travelers, the winter is a good time to visit France because hotel prices are reduced. However, from December through February the weather can be very chilly (low 40s to mid 40s Fahrenheit in Paris and northern France), as well as rainy.

Many travelers enjoy visiting during the holiday season (end of November through January 1st) since Paris and other cities feature lovely Christmas decorations. In addition, the holidays are the time for Christmas music concerts and traditional Marchés de Noël (Christmas markets) especially in the small towns of Provence, Annecy in the French Alps, and the quaint villages of the Alsace region .

More on France

Erroneous information about New Brunswick included in tourism pitches to Europeans

Shuttered attractions, mixed-up cities appear in materials posted by companies hired by province.

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A number of European tour operators that government tourism officials met with in London and Paris last year to discuss promoting New Brunswick routinely mix up basic facts about the province in their ads and have been suggesting visits to defunct or shuttered attractions.

"Spend time in Saint John, the provincial capital," suggests one ad currently being run by British-based Prestige Holidays.

"Relax before your flight to Saint John, New Brunswick's largest city," proposes another advertisement from U.K tour operator Wexas.   

Saint John is neither New Brunswick's largest city, nor its capital. Those titles belong to Moncton and Fredericton, respectively.

Prestige and Wexas are two of the private tour operators New Brunswick Tourism Minister Tammy Scott-Wallace said she met and signed contracts with last September during a trip to London and Paris by her, her deputy minister Yennah Hurley and two other department officials.

During a legislative committee session last week, Scott-Wallace said her department works in close "partnership" with the companies and it was important to meet directly with them.

Some of the tour operators "had interests in the province they wanted to discuss" and all, she said, signed contracts of some kind with New Brunswick for the upcoming year.

"I sat at the table with tour operator companies," said the minister. 

"These were face-to-face meetings with these businesses — senior executives, owners of these companies."

Despite those direct meetings and contractual ties with the province several of the tour operators appear to be in the dark about basic New Brunswick facts, locations and attractions.

"New Brunswick's capital is steeped in history," Wexas writes in one blurb that then suggests visitors to the capital take in the historic Martello Tower and the New Brunswick Museum. Both sites are in Saint John, not Fredericton.

Little harm will follow, however, since neither Saint John attraction is open.

Martello Tower has been closed to the public for the last eight years and is currently shrouded in construction materials and scaffolding. The museum shut its doors in 2022 and its collections are currently in storage.  

A proposed new museum building will not be open until at least 2026.

Tour operator Canadian Sky also suggests a visit to the shuttered museum while in Saint John and for "families" adds the Cherry Brook Zoo as a preferred outing.

The zoo was closed permanently four years ago.

Moncton's status as a regional shopping centre, one of Canada's fastest growing metropolitan areas and New Brunswick's largest city, appears unknown to any of the tour operators. Instead, an aging 50-year-old arena in the city got top billing in one write-up

"Moncton is known for its Coliseum," claims Wexas.

Scott-Wallace told MLAs that selling New Brunswick as a tourist destination to Europeans is something the province is depending on the tour operators to execute.

"We have contracts signed with each and every person on this list," Scott-Wallace said about the companies she met personally with.

"These are signed contracts with every person on this list for '24-'25. That's a good seven days' work from me."

• Rise in international tourists cited by embattled N.B. minister was seen in all provinces
• Tourism minister faces more questions on deputy's spending

It is unclear if New Brunswick's Tourism department checks the accuracy of what those tour operator partners say about the province in ads or if the minister raised the issue during her face-to-face meetings with company officials.

However, on Friday a department spokesperson said in an emailed statement changes are now being requested.

"The Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture has been in contact with the European tour operators to make updates to the information," said the email.

• N.B. tourism minister defends pricey trip to United Kingdom, France
• Tourism deputy rings up N.B. government's largest 2023 expense account

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Robert Jones has been a reporter and producer with CBC New Brunswick since 1990. His investigative reports on petroleum pricing in New Brunswick won several regional and national awards and led to the adoption of price regulation in 2006.

Olargues travel guide

Visit Olargues (Occitanie, France)

Olargues, classified as one of the ' most beautiful villages of France ', is 40 kilometres north-west of Béziers . It is on the banks of the little Jaur River, and forms part of the 'Parc naturel régional du Haut-Languedoc'.

Explore Olargues

France This Way review: Olargues is almost encircled by the river giving it a lovely natural setting and there are various bridges across the river, which together with the small historic centre make it a pleasant village to explore.

One of the bridges across the river is an attractive 3-arched bridge dating back to the 12th century. This bridge is called the Pont du Diable, or devil’s bridge, apparently because it was the site of transactions between the devil and the villagers. From here the town is entered through a medieval stone arched gateway.

The paved streets of Olargues meander uphill from here passed the medieval houses. Various remnants of the past fortifications can be seen, such as parts of the original ramparts.

The Church of Saint-Laurent in the village was built in the 17th century using stone from the ramparts.

The village contains some lovely old stone houses, many with impressive stone doorways and decoration. The Ruelle d’Olargues is a particularly pretty street and the Escalier de la Commanderie a lovely old stone staircase. Many of the old shop fronts are made of marble.

At the top of the hill above Olargues you can see the bell tower. This is a remnant of an ancient (11th century) donjon of a medieval castle, that was converted into a belltower in the 15th century. From here there are fine views over the Languedoc countryside.

In the centre of the town there is a museum of Art and popular traditions, also the site of the lovely escalier de la commanderie.

Attractions nearby

Olargues and area makes a good base for exploring the Parc Naturel, and outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking are the best way to enjoy the rivers, gorges and lakes of this 'not yet overdeveloped' part of France. One of the most popular attractions is the source of the Fréjo river, where a lovely walk leads you to a pool and small waterfall surrounded by rocks and trees, a lovely place for a picnic.

A popular side excursion from Olargues is to visit the Mediterranean Garden at Roquebrun .

You can find more travel ideas in the Herault guide and the Languedoc-Roussillon guide .

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Map of olargues and places nearby, visit near olargues with france this way reviews.

The seting on the River Orb and the Mediterranean garden add to the charm of this small, unspoiled town

Saint-Chinian

The busy village of Saint-Chinian in the Minerves is best known for the good quality wind produced here

The fortified village centre of Aigne make it one of our favourite Minervois villages

The ancient streets of the attractive village of Minerve are very pleasant to explore, and you also have great views across the region

Bize-Minervois

Bize-Minervois is a small village but its pretty houses and popular swimming river in summer make it a good place for a detour

More famous for the beauty products produced here, the steep streets of the old village of Avene are also enjoyable to explore

... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Herault

Tourist classifications for Olargues

Olargues is classified as a one of the most beautiful village in France (plus beau villages)

Address: Olargues, Béziers, Languedoc-Roussillon, 34390, France || GPS coordinates: latitude 43.557, longitude 2.9152

Plan your visit to Olargues, Herault

Sightseeing & tourist attractions to visit nearby.

• Mont Caroux: site of natural beauty (8 km)
• Fraisse-sur-Agout: ville fleurie 4* (11 km)
• Grotte de la Devèze: site of natural beauty (19 km)
• Haut-Languedoc: regional natural parc (21 km)
• Minerve : most beautiful village (26 km)
• Abbaye de Sylvanès (Sylvanes): religious monument (31 km)
• Enserune: national monument (32 km)
• Parc et jardin du château de Margon: remarkable garden (33 km)
• Beziers : secteur sauvegarde (34 km)
• Jardin des carrières de Saint-Adrien: remarkable garden (34 km)
• Cirque de Mourèze : site of natural beauty (37 km)
• Cirque du Moureze : site of natural beauty (37 km)

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