LANGUEDOC – ROUSSILLON
LANDSCAPE
Stretching from the west bank of the river Rhone to the Spanish border, Languedoc-Roussillon revels in its olive groves, vineyards and sunny Mediterranean coast. Around the Lac du Salagou stands an almost lunar landscape of red alluvia in a volcanic crater. The craggy granite Caroux mountains in the Parc Régional are cut by gorges with deep rock pools.
Languedoc-Roussillon is splendidly picturesque - with tiny villages clinging to rugged cliffs, cathedral spires rising over rooftops covered in light-coloured slates, canals flowing through rows of tall trees across the open countryside, and the glorious sandy beaches of the Mediterranean.
It is in this cotext, that Cuendet has selected farmhouses, ancient castles, country residences, farm holidays to be rented for short or not so short periods, for holidays in search of tranquillity and special atmospheres.
HISTORY AND ARCHITECTURE
The Romans crated the cities of Narbonne - their capital of Gaul - and
Nimbus, which boasts the best preserved classical arena in Europe. The region’s mediaeval past is enshrined in Romanesque chapels, abbeys and impressive fortifications. During these times, the region’s historic capital, Perpignan, was the second city of Catalonia - next only to Barcelona - and it still has a delightfully Spanish feel about it. Throughout the region, in even the smallest towns, you will still see the Catalonian colours proudly displayed - Sang et Or - Blood and Gold.
FOOD AND WINE
This is a region of robust dishes with deliciously strong Mediterranean
flavours - generous in olive oil, garlic and southern herbs. Along the
coast you’ll find oysters, mussels, anchovies and “violet” urchins - and
steaming plates of “fruits de mer”. The mountains provide a rich variety of game including wild boar, cêpes mushrooms, chestnuts and cheeses from both goat and sheep. Wines to look for include Banyuls, Collioure, St Chinian, Faugères, Minervois and Fitou, and do sample the “Vin de Pays” amongst which are some excellent claret-style wines. Also well worth trying is the sweet “muscat” apéritif.
LEISURE AND EXCURSIONS
The coast is blessed with an array of sandy beaches, lagoons
and coves. Along with the Canal du Midi, which runs through
the heart of the region, there is plenty of opportunity for all forms of
watersports. Lac de Salagou has boat and windsurf hire and there is
canoeing through the canyons on the rivers Hérault. Orb and Upper
Aude. This is fine walking country - and riding, tennis and golf are also
well catered for. For days out, visit the region’s spectacular limestone
caverns, or explore the historic Cathar castles which dot the landscape - reminders of past crusades. For mediaeval centres and fascinating
markets, take a trip to Montpellier, Pézenas and Béziers; for lions, giraffes, elephants and reptiles, the African Reserve at Sigean
should not be missed.
CLIMATE
The region enjoys a privileged climate: endless dry hot and sunny summer days, tempered by occasional cooling breezes, especially from the northwest. Spring and Autumn are pleasantly mild and the ideal time to visit if walking is on your agenda.