The Languedoc region of France is a place of historical interest, having been a centre for the Cathar religion. There are many medieval towns and villages of note, particularly Minerve, which is situated a few minutes away from Azillanet in the mountains.
5 minutes from Azillanet by car in a southerly direction brings you to the small town of Olonzac, with all its facilities and a bustling market. 5 minutes on from there is Lake Jouarres, where you can swim, fish and do water-sports. It has a pebble beach; free parking; a cafe; lifeguards; barbecue facilities; gardens and a stretch of grass for sunbathing and games.
The Dolmen Des Fados (the Dolmen of the Fairies) is just down the road. It is the largest dolmen (burial mound) in the south of France, and there are other dolmen hiding away secretly in the mountains.
The nearest seaside beach - 50 minutes away, at Narbonne-Plage - is long and sandy. Walks in the mountains afford breathtaking scenery. The senses are charged with the smell of thyme trodden underfoot. Rosemary, lavender, juniper, sage and hollyoaks grow everywhere around the rocky outcrops and under the olive and pine trees. The freshness of the energy touches the soul.
