The Olives - Region Etc

The Languedoc-Roussillon Region - Miles of fine sandy beaches, a hinterland rising up the foothills of the Massif Central and the Pyrenees… Languedoc-Roussillon is a land full of character, stretched out under almost permanent sunshine (well, an average of 300+ days per year!). Running through the region is the spectacular Canal du Midi, which links the Mediterranean sea with the Atlantic Ocean.

Marseillan - Not to be confused with Marseille this charming port on the ‘bassin de thau’ (inland sea) is just 5km from ‘The Olives’. The harbour, lined with excellent restaurants is home to Noilly Prat the popular French liqueur, and you can visit their caves and taste & buy the product there. There are also the magnificent beaches of Marseillan Plage where you can relax or enjoy the many water sports.

Cap d’Agde - Lies to the South of Mont St.Loup on the Mediterranean seashore, with everything you could want from a beach resort; nightclubs, water sports & restaurants, as well as a 20 km beach!

Pézenas - One of the most beautiful towns in the region, with an amazing amount of grand architecture. Renowned as a centre for arts & crafts Pézenas hosts the ‘mirondela des arts’ (a festival or arts and crafts) from June to September.

Sète - Once an island, now joined to the mainland by two narrow spits of land, Sète is criss-crossed by many canals and most famous for the colourful old port which is lined with restaurants and bars from which, if you time it right, you can watch one of the many water-jousting tournaments.

Béziers - Capital of the Languedoc Vineyards and hometown of Pierre-Paul Riquet, who designed the Canal du Midi (in Béziers you can visit the “nine locks” and hire boats for a canal cruise). It is also renowned for it’s numerous festivals and general merrymaking, which it takes very seriously!

Montpellier - One of the most popular cities in France, it owes much of its charm to the beautiful historical districts and superb gardens juxtaposed with modern buildings.