Languedoc-Roussillon

General
The Languedoc-Roussillon region of France is in the South on the Mediterranean coast. The area is a mixture of past and present with Middle Age villages at one extreme to modern tourist blocks at the other. In fact, going back further still, the oldest known human skull as found in Languedoc-Roussillon.

Towns and Cities
Main towns in Languedoc-Roussillon are Carcasonne (Aude), Nimes (Gard), Montpellier (Hérault), Mende (Lozere), Perpignan (Pyrénée Orientales)

Access
The area far From the UK and is a very far drive. However the airport at Montpellier is fairly well served by flights from the UK, although not as well served as some other parts of France

Places of Interest
Various gorges. E.g. Gorges de l'Aude.
Numerous religious and cultural sites including the abbey of Sainte-Guihem-le-Désert, or walled city of Cathars. The region boasts a varied and interesting architecture. Or if you prefer something completely different you could even visit Cap d'Agde which is a famous naturist resort.


Things to do
There are many options. As well as lazing on the beach you could visit the Comedy festival in Montpellier in June, the 'Procession of the Sanch' (Easter) and 'Estivales' (June /July) theatre festival at Perpignan. If you like sport then this is available, or simply take a trip on the canal du Midi for a relaxing afternoon break.

Property
Due primarily to it's location, the Languedoc-Roussillon and the Dordogne region has seen an increase in popularity with UK citizens in recent years. Prices are higher now then before now, pushed up in no small part due to the British. However, some bargains in the area are still available although becoming much harder to find

Property Investment Value
Property has risen in the area recently. The signs are that it may continue to rise, but at a slower rate than before. If you are looking for an investment then Languedoc-Roussillon could be a decent bet. There may be better bets in France investment-wise if it is just an investment you are looking for. However, if it is an investment as well as a second home you are looking for, then the area could be well worth a visit as it could well turn out to be the place for you.

Cuisine
As with other areas of France the Languedoc-Roussillon is famous for its own cuisine. A lot of the cuisine has a Mediterranean feel and is cooked using olive oil and Provençal herbs such as rosemary, bay leaves, and thyme. Honey is another specialty. All French regions have their own cheese and Languedoc-Roussillon is no exception. A goat's cheese called Pélardon is popular locally.




To Conclude
Languedoc-Roussillon has become increasingly popular over the last few years. It is not the bargain basement it once was, but affordable properties are not out of the question either. It is about as far away as you can get from the UK, but air transport is reasonable, and the area does boast a peaceful countryside and coastal setting. All in all it is perhaps one of the more desirable regions for British house buyers. Saying that, it would also make sense to visit a few other areas in France before you put down your deposit and decide to settle once and for all in Languedoc-Roussillon.