Montpellier, Languedoc-Camargue, Southern France

Just 11 km from the beaches of the Mediterranean, Montpellier is attractive not only because of its ideal location but also because of a wide range of cultural activities, wonderful architecture, lovely cafes, gourmet markets, and its excellent Mediterranean climate.

Within 90 minutes’ drive of the Montpellier, Languedoc-Camargue region there are five UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Canal du Midi, the Camino de Santiago pilgrim trail, the Causses and the Cévennes, the Pont du Gard Roman aqueduct, and the walled city of Carcassonne. Nature lovers, in particular, will get their money’s worth here: the Camargue Biosphere Reserve is the only place in Europe where pink flamingos nest. For hikers, the Gorges du Tarn canyon is a popular destination.

With more than 300 days of sunshine a year and over 100 km of sandy beaches, the region is ideally suited to the perfect beach vacation. Active holidaymakers can kitesurf or sail off the coast. Discover well-kept treasures, such as the dive sites in Cap d’Agde, the Lido Beach in the port city of Sète or the unspoiled sandy beaches of Espiguette.

Montpellier is the ideal starting point for visiting the surrounding idyllic coastal towns and cities that skillfully combine modernity and history. Discover Nîmes, for example, known as the “ancient Rome of France.” Stroll through the picturesque alleys of Agde , visit the authentic fishing harbor of Le Grau-du-Roi or ask at the Tourist Office in Pézenas for a treasure hunt as a different way to explore the town’s association with the great French playwright, Molière.

The region is known for the unique character of its cuisine: cheese, fresh seafood, and culinary specialties such as cassoulet (bean stew), Brandade de Morue (pureed salt cod and potatoes) or Tielle Sétoise (tomato and octopus pie) are served here. Incidentally, the region is one of the largest wine-growing areas in the world. Santé!