The area around the bed and breakfast

There is so much to do in this part of Languedoc in the south of France you could spend a lifetime and not see everything.  We have a good selection of tourism brochures and information at the chambres d'hote but here are some things you might like to see and do during your French vacation.

Pouzols Minervois

The Cave Co-operative runs guided tours of the vineyards including a visit to the cave and museum, a walk through the village and lunch at a vignerons home (July and August only)

One of the independent winemakers is also happy to show visitors round his Cave by appointment.

The area around the village is perfect for walking and cycling. Pouzols-Minervois has a web site in French.

Canal du Midi

In Homps, about 10 minutes away, there is a 'harbour' on the canal.  You can rent a canal boat to cruise on your own or go on a tour.

There are restaurants and cafes beside the canal.  It's a lovely way to spend some time, sitting in a cafe, sipping a glass of local wine and watching the barges and boats.

If you're feeling more energetic you can walk or cycle on the towpath.

La Somail a small port on the Canal du Midi where there are restaurants, a hat museum and a wonderful book emporium

Bize Minervois

Bize Minervois is a charming village with shops and restaurants on the Cesse River, about a 10 minute drive through the vineyards.  Lovely river swimming in the summer.

Carcassonne

No visit to the area is complete without seeing Carcassonne.  La Cite, the restored castle is lovely but don't miss the 'new' old city, near the railway station

Local markets

The are outdoor markets in Olonzac on Tuesday morning and in Lezignan on Wednesday morning.  Béziers, Narbonne and Carcassonne have covered markets as well as outdoor markets.

There are vide greniers almost every weekend from the end of March to the end of October.  They are in small towns and villages and are like car boot sales or garage sales.  Usually there is a combination of dealers and locals,

There is almost always a concessions selling barbequed sausages, chips, and local wine.

You can always find out where and when they are from the notices posted at the side of the road, in bakery windows, and in bars.