Do you only have a few days to spare and want to see the best of what the Côte du Midi has to offer?
In Narbonne, Peyriac-de-Mer or Le Somail, whether as a couple, with your family or your friends, here is our list of Top Ten things to do (or to do again!).
Arnaud Späni
1
Narbo Via, Amphoralis and the Roman Horreum
Three sites that will take you back in time to roman antiquity
Narbo Via: this museum, which opened recently in Narbonne, attests to the grandeur of the ancient city of "Narbo Martius" (i.e. Narbonne), the first Roman colony founded in Gaul in 118 BC.
Amphoralis, this ancient Gallic amphora production workshop, located in Sallèles d'Aude, will allow you to discover the daily life and activity of these potters in bygone times.
Unique in Europe, the underground galleries of Horreum ("warehouse" in Latin) will reveal some of the secrets about Narbonne's Roman architecture. In fact, many have yet to be discovered...
Fontfroide Abbey
Chosen by Ridley Scott for his last movie!
The "little sister" of Cîteaux Abbey, Fontfroide Abbey lies at the foot of the Corbières, just 15 kilometres from the centre of Narbonne. It is nestled in the midst of the vineyards and the massif of the same name!
It was the residence of converted monks until the beginning of the 20th century, before being miraculously saved by the Fayet family. Their descendants still cherish this heritage site, and have since opened it to the public. Also to be discovered are the abbey's rose nursery, its AOC Corbières wines or its restaurant which gives pride of place to local products. The abbey is the venue for various events, such as the "Fête des plantes" (a plant festival), or the Fontfroide trail...!
If you fancy a sensory experience in the depths of the earth, you've come to the right place! On an awe-inspiring scale, this site will awaken your five senses as you retrace the footsteps of the former gypsum quarry's miners.
Every morning, the inhabitants of Narbonne can buy their groceries in the renowned Halles de Narbonne. Here you will find more than 60 stalls with the best fresh products, including fruit and vegetables, fish, cheeses and the region's fine wines... The Narbonne covered market is a feast for your eyes... and your taste buds, all in a warm and welcoming Mediterranean atmosphere.
The Réserve Africaine is a well-preserved animalpark which you can visit for a day in your own car, then on foot. Come and see giraffes, zebras, elephants, lions and chimpanzees, not forgetting the vivarium and its reptiles. This wildlife experience is a great way to spend some time with your family and friends!
Come and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Port du Somail on the Canal du Midi. This hamlet will take you back in time with its unique architectural ensemble that has remained unchanged since the 17th century. It will delight you with its ice house, its bridge and its old bookshop, as well as the MaisonBonnal with its "Canals and rivers" cultural path.
Here you will get to learn about the centuries-old history and culture of the olive tree, before going on to do some olive tasting. A memorable visit! The site's beautiful shop offers an assortment of tastysouvenirs. Children will enjoy the Oulibo treasure hunt "in search of the elixir of eternal youth".
Standing 214 metres high, the massif of La Clape dominates the surrounding lagoons and the Mediterranean Sea. Take the road that crosses right through it to discover its secrets. Along the way, you will find pine trees, garrigue and especially vineyards, which benefit from the region's sun and wind. The unique landscape of La Clape comprises differentdomains where you can meet the wine growers and taste their wine – in moderation!
Miles of fine golden sand where you can simply set down your towel or take to the waves, and under the sun of the Côte du Midi. Here, from Port-La-Nouvelle to Saint-Pierre-la-Mer and Narbonne-Plage, you will find authentic resorts, a friendly, family atmosphere and the superb surrounding natural landscapes.
