5 medieval villages and cities to visit in Languedoc
The Languedoc is not only a land of wines, it’s also full of historic sites. In this article, discover 5 medieval towns and villages to discover during wine tours!
1. Montpellier
Unlike its Roman neighbors (Nîmes, Narbonne…), Montpellier is a medieval city, first mentioned in the 10th century. The pedestrianized historic center, with its cobbled streets and lively terraces, is the perfect place to stroll and have a drink. You’ll also find a number of medieval buildings, including the 14th-century Saint-Pierre cathedral, the Babotte tower, the only vestige of the town’s ancient fortifications, and the 16th-century Peyrou and Pins towers.
Discover the city through its gastronomy with our food tour !
2. Carcassonne
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, the city of Carcassonne is a must-see site in Occitanie. This exceptional medieval hilltop fortress began construction in the 12th century and continued until the 14th century.
Today, you can visit buildings such as the Basilique Saint-Nazaire and the Château Comtal, and explore the narrow streets and imposing ramparts.
Don’t forget to try Carcassonne’s famous cassoulet, tasty and authentic. Many local restaurants serve generous portions, accompanied by a glass of local wine.
We can organize a private excursion including a tour of the city, please ask for a quote.
3. Aigues-Mortes
Situated at the mouth of the Rhône, in the heart of the beautiful Camargue region, the town of Aigues-Mortes was founded in the 13th century by Louis IX. He and other kings of France used the town as a military port for many years.
In addition to the ramparts, which are a model of fortification in France, the Tour de Constance is also a must-see. This imposing defense tower was used as a prison for Protestants during the Wars of Religion.
Outside the ramparts, you’ll be able to see the immense salt pans, which are open to visitors, and discover the salt harvesting process. Keep your eyes peeled for the pink flamingos, bulls and wild horses that are emblematic of the Camargue, and don’t leave without sampling the local specialties: “rosé des sables” wines, gardiane de taureau or fougasse d’Aigues mortes !
We can organize a private excursion including a tour of the city, please ask for a quote.
4. Saint-Guilhem le Désert
Like Carcassonne, Saint-Guilhem le Désert is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This village, near the Gorges de l’Hérault, is surrounded by mountains and hills, giving it a very picturesque appearance.
The village’s main square is dominated by the Gellone Abbey, a magnificent Romanesque church dating back to the 12th century. The church is adorned with medieval sculptures and frescoes, as well as an 11th-century cloister.
You can discover this village with our “Terrasses du Larzac Vineyards, Herault Gorges and Medieval Village” excursion.
5. Minerve
Located in the Haut-Languedoc regional nature park, the village of Minerve is built on a rocky ridge. It is also surrounded by the Cesse and Brianne gorges.
One of Minerve’s most remarkable sites is its ancient bridge, built in the 12th century to link the village to the surrounding region, and an important landmark for visitors to the village.
In addition to the bridge, Minerve boasts a church with well-preserved medieval frescoes. There’s also an ancient watchtower, used to keep watch over the surrounding area and protect the village from enemy attack.
Discover Minerve with our “Minerve and the Minervois” tour.
