Occitane is a fascinating area in the south of France offering history, mountains, beaches
and the canal du midi. Additionally with 300 days of sunshine a year this region has all the
ingredients for a fantastic holiday at any time of the year.
The area is renowned for its seafood and wine and with dozens of vineyards and domaines
to visit and hundreds of restaurants from Michelin Star to beach bar, the choice is immense.
Our apartment is situated in the ancient and beautiful town of Pezenas. Pezenas was the
seat of local government during the 16th and 17th centuries and is today, one of the prettiest
towns in Occitane. The town is well known for its antique shops (Brocanes) with over thirty
of them lining the main route into the town.
The town is very well placed to visit the coast – 20 minutes – lakes – 30 minutes – Canal du
midi – 20 minutes and the towns of Beziers, Montpellier, Carcassonne and Sete area all
within easy reach.
The area is served by five airports – Beziers – 20 minutes – Montpellier – 45 minutes,
Carcassone – 1 hour, Perpignan 1 hour 10 minutes and Nimes 1 hour 30 minutes.
The TGV runs from Paris (where it connects to the Eurostar) and there are stations in
Montpellier, Beziers and Agde.
The main Motorway linking Spain to Italy runs 10km south of Pezenas and the motorway
linking the south of France to the centre of France (Clermont Ferand) is 5 minutes from
Pezenas, it couldn’t be easier to get here!!
Below is a list of just a few of the local towns etc., of interest
BEZIERS – Birthplace of Pierre-Paul Riquet, creator of the Canal du Midi, the towpath of
which provides a charming opportunity to take a leisurely walk or cycle ride.
BOUZIGUES – Fantastic opportunity to eat locally caught shellfish on the shore of the
etang du thau.
NARBONNE – founded by the Romans, a visit to this town would not be complete without
going to the famous indoor market, Les Halles. The town has wonderful small shops in the
twisty back streets.
MARSEILLAN – visit the picturesque port, which has a number of lovely restaurants
offering the freshest seafood and excellent local wines.
MONTPELLIER – in this capital of the Languedoc-Rousillon, you can stroll along the
Peyrou Promenade and appreciate great views of the city, enjoy a leisurely lunch in the car-free
Place des Comédies, admire elegant architecture, wander through a museum or visit the chic
shops including many designer names.
CARCASSONNE – The largest fortified medieval town in Europe with its 52 towers and
3km of wall is an hour’s drive away and provides a great day to explore
BEACHES – The Mediterranean offers a number of excellent beaches, the closest being
just 20 minutes away. There are several seasonal restaurants with sunbeds on the beaches.
LAC DE SALAGOU – just 30 minutes has a number of water-based activities such as
fishing, wind-surfing and swimming.