Carcassonne is a magnificent walled city, tainted slightly perhaps by an overly commercialised souvenir trade but still magical nonetheless. It was made all the more famous by Kate Mosse’s series of novels which capture some of the mystery of the region’s Cathar past. Of course
Beaches Although you have plenty of choice along the Languedoc coast, the closest decent one is probably Sérignan-Plage (ignore the mini-golf and pizza-eateries on the way) with its untrammelled sands and salt-meadows. There are also some nice beach restaurants (in season) with great seafood, by the car park.
Coastal towns There are some beautiful nearby ports like Marseillan – check out Restaurant Le Chateau du Port for a smart lunch – or Sete – the photo is of the Clode et Madame – a great seafood restaurant on the quayside.
Narbonne is really worth a visit. With the mouth of the canal du midi splitting the town, it has a very special feel – both elegant and very authentic. It has the confidence of a town that knows it’s good looking but is never ostentatious or pretentious. And some great restaurants.
Pezenas lovely market town just down the road (try to take the shorter roads and indulge in the rolling hills and vineyards stretching before you), the old quarter is a perfect place for mooching, boasting an array of (mostly expensive) tasteful ornaments. Close to the square there is also a group of antique shops but be prepared to barter – or walk away!
Maison Cambo 