Languedoc-Roussillon accommodation from AU$83

The most southerly region of the French mainland, Languedoc-Roussillon stretches from the Rhone Valley to Spain’s border. It has been inhabited for over 450 thousand years. First conquered by the Romans around 120 BC, various other tribes took over the region over the following centuries. During the Middle Ages, the Catholic Church launched a crusade against the Cathars that lasted 20 years and led to a bloody massacre in Beziers. During World War Two, Languedoc’s resistance movement helped stop the Nazis from gaining control of France.

Things to do

See Roman history come to life again by visiting Pont du Gard, an ancient aqueduct bridge with three tiers of arches. Check out the Arena of Nimes, an amphitheatre built around 70 AD. If you want something even more spectacular, visit Cite de Carcassonne, a medieval fortress with over three kms of stone walls.

Winding rivers, wild flowers, forests and great views are waiting for you at mountainous Cevennes National Park. Take an easy stroll up the rolling hills or challenge yourself with a hike up Mont Lozere, the highest peak in the national park, which becomes a ski slope in winter.

If you’d prefer to take it easy and enjoy the sunshine, Languedoc-Roussillon has 250 km of coastline with sweeping and pristine beaches. The vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon specialise in mixing different grape blends, and are ideal for a relaxed afternoon of wine-tasting in the French countryside.

The capital of the region is Montpellier, a cultured city where you can check out a museum, a cathedral or the towering Porte du Peyrou (Arc de Triomphe), Montpellier’s huge and spectacular arch built in 1691.

Shopping and dining

Wot about something to go with your new bottle of wine? Pay a visit to one of the region’s cheese shops. You can also spend up at a farmer’s market, antique shop or the shops in Montpellier’s city centre. If France’s food menu is beckoning, Languedoc-Roussillon won’t let you down. Montpellier has fine dining, tea rooms and cafes, while the rest of the region has a range of other classy (and casual) choices.

Getting here and around

Book one of our cheap flights to Montpellier and you’ll be on your way to Languedoc-Roussillon. The cities have decent public transport, and Montpellier has bright colourful trams, but a hire car is the best way to see the most of Languedoc-Roussillon. Find the best Languedoc-Roussillon accommodation deals in our great range.