France has been amazes all kinds of tourists for decades with its combination of diverse climates, cultures and territories that leaves no one indifferent. Thus, the neighboring country has managed to differentiate itself from other destinations, offering a wide variety of activities and a diversity of options to choose from.
As summer draws to a close, one of the most striking is the Mediterranean coast –Mediterranean Coastin French – the south of France, an area surrounded by immense beaches and cultural spaces, perfect for those looking to enjoy the last days of the summer period.
With about 200 kilometers of unspoiled beaches and clean watersThe coastline of the Occitanie region is an ideal destination for resting and taking a last swim. On the other hand, the French region also offers cultural and sporting adventures and a great history.
There are several places throughout the territory that are worth discovering and exploring, such as the Collioure, Port Vendres And Banyuls in the Vermilion Coastor enclaves steeped in history like the city of Nimes.
Collioure, in the Vermeille Coast
Collioure is a small spa town located in the department of Pyrenees-Orientales. It is possible to admire houses with multi-colored facades and immense vineyards. In fact, the place is linked to Cerberus through a winding path of roads surrounded by vineyards that give rise to the dry wines produced in the commune.
The city, of fishing origin – as evidenced by its characteristic port – is also known for being the place where the Sevillian poet is buried. Antonio Machadodied in this French city where he went into exile during the civil war.
Among the most important monuments of this city is the Royal Castle of Colliourewhich belonged to the Counts of Roussillon Already Crown of Aragonamong others. In addition, the building served as a disciplinary camp for refugees from the Republican side during the Spanish Civil War and as a prison during World War II.
Near Coilloure is located Port Vendresa large commercial port that houses huge ships and where fruits transported from Africa are mainly traded.
If you continue south, another 8 kilometers in this direction, it is possible to enjoy Banyuls sur Merspace that belonged to Cerberus for years until its independence at the end of the 17th century. The enclave stands out for the wide range of sports and cultural activities it has, such as the underwater reserve of Cerberus-Banyuls or diving centers.
Nîmes, in the Gard
The city of Nimescapital of the Gard department, is one of the most important historical cities in the French country due to the large number of Roman buildings it has. One of the main constructions, the amphitheater – originally called Arena of Nîmes– It was built in 27 BC and is still in use.
Another of the historical monuments of the Roman era that the city houses is the Roman temple. Square House, a building over 2,000 years old that has been used as a church, a resting place and even a town hall.
The monument is distinguished by its good state of conservation, which has earned it classification World Heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Others from historic buildings The most notable of the city are:
- The Magna Tower -or Magne Tower in French-.
- The Pont du Gard -or Pont du Gard in French-.
- The Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady and Saint Castor – or Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady and Saint Castor in French -.
- The Fountain Gardens -or Jardins de la Fontaine in French-.
Uzès, in the Gard
Just 30 kilometers from Nîmes is the city of Uzesa historic town in the Alzón River Valley. The place is classified as City of Art and Historyand stands out for the quality of conservation of its historic center, but not so much for its churches, since most of them were burned during the religious wars in the region.
One of the most remarkable monuments of the city is the Ducal Castle of Uzès -Château Ducal d’Uzès in French-, which belonged to one of the oldest noble families in all of France and has adapted over the years to the needs of its owners.
On the other hand, the Saint Theodore Cathedral -or Saint-Théodorit in French- is home to one of the most remarkable viewpoints in the city. It is none other than the Fenestrelle Towerfamous for its great resemblance to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy, and for being one of the few monuments to have survived the altercations and various wars that took place in the region.
Sète, in Hérault
The port of Sète For decades it has established itself as one of the most striking on the entire Mediterranean coast. The city is connected to the sea by wide canalssimilar to those in the Italian city of VeniceThis is why it is commonly nicknamed “the Venice of Languedoc”.
The enclave, also called gallery city, is one of the main artistic representatives of the region, as shown by its streets with colorful facades or the Open air museum -or Open Air Museum in French-. The city is located about 30 kilometers from the famous and historic city of Montpellier.
