Best Attractions in the Languedoc  Although the Languedoc Roussillon region is best known for its splendid Mediterranean coastline, travel a little inland and you will find a totally different character with plenty to add a bit of variety to the ubiquitous bucket and spade holiday.  Not only will you find beautiful scenery such as the rolling Corbières hills, the Parc National de Haut Languedoc, or the Pyrénéean mountains, but there is also incredible history to be found with the medieval fortress town of Carcassonne and the dramatically situated Cathar castles.

Canal du Midi

Location: The Canal du Midi runs for around 250km connecting the River Garonne at Toulouse to the Mediterranean at Agde (or Grissan via the tributary of the Canal de la Robine).

General Info: There's several useful websites: Le Canal du Midi, Canal des Deux Mers and Midi Canal Boat Rental.

Description: Now a UNESCO world heritage site it was conceived in the 17th century.  The canal is navigable between March and November, July/August can be crowded.

Our recommendations: It is great for a bike ride between Toulouse and Seuil de Naurouze (about 50km long).  Make a trip out and back to fit the capability of your children.  Between these two places the towpath is paved.  The rest of the route is gravel and is OK for mountain bikes.

For the children:  For a holiday with a difference you could consider spending it on a boat – older kids will love this option.  Boat or bike hire also available at Bram (halfway between Castelnaudry and Carcassonne).  An 8 person electric boat can be hired for €77 per half day.  Booking advised in peak season.