Last Updated on January 4, 2024
The Languedoc (read in Italiano) – Roussillon region of France, which is between Provence and the border of Spain, is a very scenic area and is a great destination for day trips and also longer trips.
It is an ideal holiday location with some excellent attractions, great all-year-round weather, and access to the French Riveria and Spain.
Below we take a look at the best things to do and see in the local region.
Exploring the Languedoc Region
The South of France is famous for having warm weather year-round.
Even in winter, temperatures rarely dip below freezing.
The rainiest month is October, but there are so many things to do in the region and you can easily find other activities that do not include the beach.
Otherwise, during fair weather, you can enjoy a variety of:
- water sports
- fishing
- boating
- water skiing
- swimming
- hiking
- cycling
- or simply lounging on the beach
Attractions in Languedoc
There are also several local and worthwhile attractions to visit and see.
The Languedoc-Roussillon region has a rich history, dating back to the dawn of the history of mankind. In turn, it was conquered by the Romans in the 6th century BC, overthrew its conquerors, and has served as an important trading route.
Many ancient castles, churches, and museums are there, available for exploring. Also, its location between the Mediterranean and Atlantic Oceans makes it a prime spot for tourists to vacation. One can even visit Spain or Italy since their borders flank the region.
There are numerous campsites, some of which include a beach.
There are not many places in the world where you can camp near world-class beaches.
The Languedoc-Roussillon region of France is one of the few such places – plus, the weather is usually perfect for camping, year-round.
La Bambouseraie de Prafrance
You really should consider visiting La Bambouseraie de Prafrance.
This is a truly unique park, entering it is like taking a quick side trip to Asia. Several varieties of bamboo grow there, and it contains a Laotian village, a stunning Japanese garden, and a section called the Valley of the Dragon.
They have a self-guided tour with a leaflet and recorded messages at various sites (it is entirely in French).
This reserve is open seven days a week from March 1st to November 15th.
Grotte de Demoiselles
You should also consider visiting and exploring Grotte
This is a cavern, complete with stalactites (from the ceiling) and stalagmites (from the floor), some of which form nature-made statues such as “Mother and Child”.
One chamber is called the Cathedral Room, because of its excellent acoustics; concerts are held there.
The tour, which lasts 1½ hours, is primarily conducted in French, but audio guides in several other languages, including English, are available.
It begins with a 2-minute train ride into the cavern; the rest of the tour is on foot.
Day Trips from Cap d’Ade Naturist Resort
Ardeche
The Ardeche province in the Languedoc region is a holiday destination, with a number of facilities for water sports including canoeing and rafting.
There are also a number of secluded beaches in the area that make for a great day trip for families and couples.
Wine Tours in France
There are many wineries in the Languedoc region and you can make a day trip out of one of these tours if you are a wine connoisseur.
There are several companies in the region that offer winery tours along with a wine tasting session.
Bages, France
Bages is a beautiful fishing village that is very close to Narbonne.
The village was established in the 11th century and still has much of its medieval charm.
It is a wonderful destination for photographers and there are a few art galleries and a beautiful church to visit.
Pont du Gard, Vers-Pont-du-Gard, France
Visitors to the Languedoc region often take the time to visit the Pont du Gard, which is an ancient Roman aqueduct.
It is located close to Nimes and is a UNESCO heritage site. I definitely recommend trying to see the Pont du Gard is you have the opportunity!
Canal du Midi
A visit to the Languedoc region would be incomplete without a cruise down the Canal du Midi.
The canal offers a picturesque boat ride and many people opt to turn this into a day trip by having lunch on their cruise boat.