A culinary journey in Languedoc-Roussillon

Languedoc-Roussillon is a real culinary crossroads. From Catalan cuisine to the specialities of the Cévennes, there’s a wide array of choices on offer. The markets are full of wonderful produce, and Languedoc-Roussillon produces more wine than any other region in Europe. When you’re on holiday, it’s a challenge to know which vineyards to visit, which wines to select, which restaurants to favour and which delicacies to try. And it’s good to get a taste of local culture at the same time.

A new travel agency, Océanides Réceptif, has set up in Languedoc-Roussillon with the aim of showing visitors the real south of France. The company has sought out the best local restaurants and chosen hotels and B&Bs where gastronomic cuisine is a priority and the chefs use fresh, local produce.

On Océanides Réceptif holidays and excursions, visitors are taken to places where they can taste real Mediterranean cuisine. They are taken to the heart of Languedoc-Roussillon and are assured of a genuine gastronomic experience.

Visitors also learn about the history, heritage, and culture of Languedoc-Roussillon. Groups are taken to historic sites such as Valmagne Abbey (known as the Cathedral of the Vineyards) and the Gallo-Roman villa at Loupian. Some short breaks are organised around specific cultural events, such as art exhibitions or the summer light show at the Pont du Gard.

Groups go to Bouzigues, which is famous for oysters, and have lunch on the banks of the seawater lake the Étang de Thau. They also go to Vinipolis, a modern complex set up to present and promote local wines. Local cuisine is on the menu at lunchtime.

When visitors go to Pézenas, they eat in a restaurant with an architectural charm and atmosphere that befits such a delightful town.

Océanides Réceptif introduces visitors to local winemakers and food producers. Tradition is part of daily life in Languedoc-Roussillon and recipes have been handed down from generation to generation. Meeting local people and learning about their way of life adds flavour to any holiday experience.

In the Cévennes, visitors are taken to a local farm where honey and goat’s cheese are produced. The visit is a real feast for the senses, with lavender, chestnut and garrigue honey, nougat, biscuits, pain d’épices (gingerbread), the famous pélardon (goat’s cheese) and even honey marshmallows.

On the short break Antique Treasures Along the Domitian Way, visitors are given a Roman-style lunch. When groups visit Cathar country, they taste Minervois wines. On other breaks, Muscat and Banyuls wines are on the menu. Several of the short breaks include a visit to an olive oil mill. Visitors going to the Cèze Valley are taken to a lavender farm.

The short break for groups, Vineyards Past & Present, includes trips to Vinipolis and Valmagne Abbey, and a tour of an organic vineyard.

The Wine, Gastronomy & Historic Treasures holiday includes a guided tour of Noilly Prat, where the famous vermouth has been produced since 1813. A Taste of the Good Life is a break that includes a hike with a specialist in medicinal plants. Visitors learn how to recognise the plants and make herbal teas.

Océanides Réceptif organises short breaks for groups and individuals, romantic getaways for couples, longer holidays and one-day, all-inclusive excursions. Some visitors want help to organise a made-to-measure holiday; others are looking for a break that is ready-made. Whatever their preference, Languedoc-Roussillon offers a colourful palette of scents and savours. With Océanides Réceptif at the reins, all that holidaymakers have to do is relax.

Océanides Réceptif organises breaks and excursions in the Gard, the Hérault, the Aude and the Pyrénées-Orientales. Visitors coming on Océanides Réceptif holidays get a personal welcome at Nîmes airport. They also have use of the VIP lounge and benefit from priority boarding.