Other horizons

A historic town full of culture, and the sub-prefecture for the Hérault department, Lodève has plenty of surprises in store, including the Gothic cathedral of St Fulcran and the Bishop's Palace, the Fleury Museum, the Halle Dardé, dedicated to local sculptor Paul Dardé, mediaeval bridges, 18th century mansions and craftsmanship, with a number of craftsmen in the centre of the town and a national rugmaking factory.

Adventures in and around Lodève:

Between the Larzac limestone plateau and the Mediterranean there are some marvellous excursions and trips full of character to be had, including St Michel de Grandmont, one of the highlights of the Languedoc with its Visigoth necropolis, 12th century priory and famous dolmens, and the breathtaking site of the Cirque de Navacelles, one of France's foremost natural sites.

Nature lovers will enjoy the hundreds of paths that allow you to explore this stunning, largely untouched natural environment on mountain bikes or horseback. For walkers, a network of short-distance (PR) paths covers the full range of diverse landscapes in and around Lodève.

To find out more: www.lodeve.com