Villas in Languedoc, France

Languedoc isn’t short of a spot to lay your towel. A vast collection of beaches offer striking views and never-ending golden shores, each met by lapping Mediterranean waves in which to cool off. Leucate’s sheltered coastline is a must for surfers and seafood lovers whilst Vias Plage, Portiragnes and Argelès-sur-Mer have excellent facilities for all the family.

For wild and unspoilt wanderings, don’t miss Espiguette. This beautiful stretch of sandy dunes is a true tropical paradise and one of the longest beaches in France. Bordered by cacti and home to hot pink flamingos, you can relax, swim and saunter all the way into neighbouring Provence.

Languedoc is the perfect place to get outdoors. Hillsides and rocky gorges beg to be explored with countless paths and cycle routes winding through the greenery. There’ll be plenty to admire along the way, from châteaus and ruins to exceptional views you simply have to see.

Pack up a picnic and stop off at one of the region’s many peaceful lakes for an energising swim. The more adventurous will uncover hidden waterfalls and caverns whilst others can sail, canoe, fish or paddleboard in the waters.

Boasting one the oldest wine regions in France, Languedoc has been making rich, delicious bottles since the start of the fifth century. And they’ve only gotten better with age.

Hundreds of sun-drenched vineyards produce a patchwork of different grape varieties from full-bodied reds to zesty whites and rosé. Head out from your Languedoc villa and pop in for a private tasting. For fans of bubbles, don’t miss a trip to Limoux to sip a sweet glass of Blanquette, thought to be the first sparkling wine ever created.

Languedoc lives and breathes its long medieval history in a treasure trove of Roman architecture. Majestic castles and ancient villages are scattered across the region’s hilltops whilst bustling cities welcome visitors to a wealth of museums and galleries.

A calendar of festivities celebrate Languedoc’s heritage and culture throughout the year with plenty of dancing, music and theatrics. Cheer racing chariots and duelling gladiators from the seats of historic arenas whilst merchants and market holders bring centuries-old traditions to life on the streets.

• Visit Les Arènes de Nîmes, one of the world’s best-preserved amphitheatres that now holds summer gigs and events for over 24,000 spectators.

• Head back to medieval times in Carcassonne’s enclosed hilltop fort. The UNESCO World Heritage site casts a fairy tale spell with over 50 turreted towers, a gated drawbridge and a labyrinth of winding cobbled streets.

• Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh and visit Arles for the day. See the inspiration behind his most famous artworks, sample fresh cheeses at the market and pop into a museum or two before driving back through the famous sunflower fields along the Rhône River.

• Join a private wine tasting tour to experience Languedoc’s best estates or hike to a winery for a refreshing respite.

• Stroll along the imposing Pont du Gard bridge, a triumphant Roman aqueduct surrounded by picture perfect countryside.