Pyrenees and Languedoc Holidays
La vie Française
Weather
Summer temperatures are very high in the Eastern Pyrenees. There is little rainfall in summer although there are occasional showers with some storms and strong winds coming in off the coast.
Wine & Cuisine
Game, partridge, mushrooms, herbs and fruit feature prominently here and hearty stews, the best known being Cassoulet combining duck, sausages and beans. Poule au Pot is tasty too (chicken simmered with vegetables). Nearer the coast, seafood naturally figures prominently, and dishes are flavoured with fragrant herbs and olive oil. The Languedoc claims to be the oldest wine-making region in France, and produces some gutsy reds, including Fauge`res, Minervois, Fitou & Saint Chinian. Blanquette de Limoux is a sparkling and refreshing local favourite and Armagnac, from the Gascony foothills, is a pleasant alternative to Cognac.
How would you like to...
Stroll the Franco/Spanish Med as Picasso and Matisse used to do? Discover Carcassonne, Roman ruins and an olive farm along the Canal du Midi? Step back in time to the drama of the Cathar Castles sieges?
Holidays in Pyrenees and Languedoc
Catalan Coast
Rocky coves and orange groves
Frontier battles gave way long ago to the simple fishing and agriculture which prevail today. An easy walk becoming moderate in places with several steep climbs. There is little shade from the Mediterranean sun, so bring a sunhat. Stunning views, friendly people and unique culture.
Cathar Castles 1st Stage
Trek of the Cathar Castles from Tuchan-Quéribus to Quillan
Trek through the foothills of the Pyrenees past mystical Cathar Castles, through beautiful and changing landscapes from craggy rocks to lush green meadows. You stay half-board in friendly chambre d’hôtes and small hotels where you’ll discover local cuisine and Languedoc wines.
Cathar Castles 2nd Stage
Continue from Quillan to Foix via Montségur, perhaps combine both stages (12 nights)
Discover the unique history, wonderful food and wine of this fascinating region, and gorgeous scenery of meadows, vineyards, and distant snowcapped peaks. Follow ancient trails to discover precariously perched ruins of Cathar castles and stay in small unspoilt Pyrenean towns and villages.
Canal du Midi to Coast
Ancient cities and idyllic waterways
Explore enchanting Carcassonne before some gentle cycling along the Canal du Midi; a picturesque, tranquil, and richly cultural route. From the extraordinary fortified town of Carcassone to the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean Sea, passing en route villages that seem stuck in time.
Canal du Midi Cruise
All-inclusive luxury barging
A delightful cruise along sections of the historic Canal du Midi between Carcassonne and Marseillan on the inland sea of Bassin de Thau. Join the 10 berth Athos, the 8 berth Anjodi, which featured in Rick Stein's French Odyssey, or take an exclusive charter of the 4 berth Alouette. Each barge follows a different daily cruise schedule.
Pyrenean Donkey Trek
Wild trails and mountain grandeur
A series of walks following remote paths in the Pyrenees in a small group of 6 to 14 with an experienced guide. Immersed in spectacular views and mountain lakes, track bears, marmots and chamois. Overnight in mountain refuges, your donkey carries your bag. Daily distances vary according weather and group variations.
Pyrenean Winter Walks
Group snowshoeing in the Pyrenees
This holiday is a must for lovers of the outdoors, mountains and snow filled landscapes. Snowshoeing will allow you to discover cols, valleys and summits others can’t access.
Canal du Midi Prestige
Ancient cities and idyllic waterways
We have added a touch of luxury to our popular Canal Du Midi cycling tour. From the extraordinary fortified town of Carcassone to the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean Sea, travel down tree lined towpaths, over beautiful stone bridges and through some of the prettiest scenery in southwest France.
Want to know more?
Why not give us a call and we'll help you pick a holiday that suits you.
