So, Why Languedoc?
Unlike a lot of guest houses that are only open during the summer, Maison De L'Orb is open all year. Languedoc benefits from over 300 days of sunshine a year, so you’re very likely to get sunny weather while you’re here – even if you come in winter. The following is what to expect during each season.
SPRING: March – May Cool – to warm, sunny with some showers. Flowers everywhere – almond and cherry blossom, broom, poppies. Clear air – with views of the snow-capped Pyrénéss. Great for walks, sightseeing, seafood on the coast, wine tasting. Fewer crowds, so easier to get around. Our bathing pool is open from early May.
SUMMER: June – September Warm then very hot. Perfect for swimming. August gets very busy – with holiday makers pouring in from all over Europe. Beaches very busy. Lots going on, such as outdoor concerts & wine tastings. An excellent time to dine outside and enjoy evenings on the beach sipping a cool beer or two. In Beziers there are numerous summer restaurants that are open for a limited time, enjoy lunch by the canal du midi or an evening supper by the river l'orb.
AUTUMN: October – December Warm then cool. Very sunny with some rainy days. But the rain never lasts long. Vines turn red, orange and gold – absolutely stunning, as the vines stretch as far as the eye can see. Quieter – so easier to get to beaches. Perfect for sightseeing, wine tasting, walks, biking.
WINTER: January – February Sunny, fresh and sometimes mild and not much rain. Beaches completely empty – so perfect for long walks, and seafood on the coast. Very quiet and tranquil. Drive to the Pyrenees for a day of skiing.
Languedoc’s beaches tend to be huge (see my previous post on our favourite beaches here and there ) – long and deep, with fine sand (rather than the pebbly beaches of the Cote d’Azur). A number of ‘beach clubs’ spring up each year along many of Languedoc’s beaches, attracting locals and those on holiday. They offer excellent food, drinks brought to your sun lounger, and even massages – and turn into night clubs – replete with DJs, lights and the latest music.
Languedoc’s cuisine offers visitors the country’s best oysters and seafood, and typically down-to-earth country recipes featuring lots of pork, duck, olive oil, salads and cheese. You’ll find a wide range of restaurants in the area – from elegant bistros to friendly village cafés. Many offer set menus from 12€.
Languedoc’s markets are also an Aladdin’s cave for any food-lover, piled high with locally-grown olives, creamy local cheeses, fresh vegetables and fruit (always seasonal), and lots of fresh fish. The capital of Languedoc, Montpellier, is only 40-50 minutes’ drive away from us, offering great shops, cafes and bars and a different atmosphere. Barcelona is only 2.5 hours by car or train away, should you want to do some really serious clubbing.
