Le Somail

Le Somail is a large hamlet which grew up as a staging post for the mail boat. Today, it has a population of around 200, and is worth exploring.

It’s home to the ‘Pont Neuf’, an unusual bridge built in 1773 from a combination of basalt, sandstone and limestone. Also take a look at the bridge-chapel and vintage book store

Colombiers

Not far from Béziers, the village of Colombiers is an architectural gem and a haven of peace and quiet.

Narbonne

Called ‘Narbo Martius’ by the Romans, was the provincial capital in Roman times, due to its strategic position on the route from Italy to Spain, and from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic. The town is packed with architectural treasures: the Cathedral, Archbishops Palace, and Roman remains. Part of the Roman road can be seen in the town square.

Béziers

Béziers was the birthplace of Pierre-Paul Riquet, the creator of the Canal du Midi, who was determined that the canal should pass through his home town. It’s an ancient town, important in Roman times, devastated in the Albigensian crusade, and now one of the Languedoc centers for wine.

Carcassonne

The medieval citadel of Carcassonne is famous throughout the world. There’s very little to top it, for well preserved architecture either in France or anywhere else. The walled city looks like an elaborate film set, and if you’re in the region, you shouldn’t miss it. If you have the chance to be there on July 14th, the fireworks are spectacular.