Narbonne, City of Art and History :
Capital of Narbonne Gaul, archiepiscopal city, and residence of the Visigoth kings, the city of Narbonne, which is over 2500 years old, has a rich heritage. On the occasion of the Easter holidays, it is organising thematic and commented visits around the history and heritage of the city from 24 April to 5 May 2023. Discovery of the Maison des Trois Nourrices, classified as a historic monument since 1913, botanical tours in the Parc de la Campane and the Plan Saint-Paul garden, visits to the Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur cathedral and the Palais-Musée des Archevêques or a treasure hunt to discover the secrets of water use in Narbonne, activities for young and old that will delight history and heritage enthusiasts. Moreover, for lovers of the medieval period, an exhibition on southern fashion in the 12th century is on offer until 30 April at the Palais-Musée des Archevêques, discover the diversity and richness of costumes, shepherds, pilgrims, noblemen, knights, architects...
The Abbey of Fontfroide
Located in the heart of the Narbonnaise Regional Nature Park, Fontfroide Abbey dates back to the end of the 11th century. In the 15th century it was one of the richest abbeys in Europe. In the heart of a preserved and private universe, it has become a place of artistic encounters and creative effervescence, between guided tours, concerts and exhibitions it will delight art and culture lovers. Its rose garden and its gardens, classified as a Remarkable Garden and LPO Refuge, are an invitation to a bucolic walk.
Terra Vinea, the history of wine, from Antiquity to the present day
15 minutes from Narbonne, in the village of Portel-des-Corbières, Terra Vinea allows you to discover all the secrets of wine. The site offers you a magical journey through the history of wine and Mediterranean cultures in the underground cellars of Rocbère, 80 metres below the Corbières massif. The reconstruction of an ancient Roman wine villa and a medieval banquet as well as a sound and light show will illuminate the huge cathedral-like vaulted ceiling, a fun and historical activity to learn more about the wine history of the area.
Walking in the open air
This year, the Tourist Office of the Côte du Midi and the communes of Armissan, Roquefort-des-Corbières and Ouveillan are offering three new walks for families or friends. The routes range from one to five kilometres and allow young and old alike to have fun and discover the heritage of the Côte du Midi and its villages. On foot, by bike or even on horseback, let yourself be surprised by the richness of the territories where the fauna and flora mingle in preserved and protected places.
Surfing sports on the coast
If you like surfing or water sports, the Côte du Midi is the place to be. Kitesurfing, jet-skiing, windsurfing, stand-up paddling or diving, the destination offers a wide range of activities. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, there are numerous surfing schools at each resort. This year, come and attend the first World Speed Windsurfing Championship, The Prince of Speed, this exceptional event will take place on the wild beach of Le Rouet from 21st to 30th April 2023.
The Bay of Birds
Marshes, salt marshes, dunes, lagoons... they are home to a remarkable biodiversity, including birds, with nearly 350 species present throughout the year or just passing through. Many natural sites are the property of the Conservatoire du Littoral and are under the protection of the Narbonnaise en Méditerranée Regional Nature Park.
Wine tourism: on the way!
The Côte du Midi offers curious visitors and wine lovers the opportunity to discover its vineyards through five wine routes. These routes are accessible by bike or car and offer a wide variety of wine landscapes. This year, an initiative has been set up in the vineyards of the Côte du Midi, with winegrowers with the Vignobles & Découvertes label taking turns to welcome you every Sunday for an original exploration of their know-how. On the programme: activities, visits, tastings and meetings with the winemakers.
Discovering the Green Diamond
Nicknamed the Green Diamond, the Lucques olive is unlike any other. It is grown only in the Occitan region and is harvested by hand. Its harvesting is perpetuated thanks to an ancestral know-how: the Oulibo, guardian of the culture of this exceptional product. Created in 1942, this olive-growing cooperative brings together 1,000 local producers. It offers all kinds of products, Lucques olives, oil or soap, for export or in its own shop. The Odyssey of the Olive Tree allows visitors to discover the history and culture of the olive tree through the ages.
What about children?
The African reserve of Sigean lights up the eyes of young and old alike. This animal park is home to several thousand animals. It is located about ten kilometres from Narbonne and is made up of two parts: the nature reserve, which can be visited in your own car and which covers the African savannah, and the walking trail to observe mammals, reptiles and birds.
Practical information and accommodation
During your stay on the Côte du Midi, don't hesitate to ask the tourist office for information. Many other activities and discoveries await you.
Do you want to stay in a hotel? Many campsites are available to welcome you.
To help you organise your camping holiday in the Aude, on the Côte du Midi, as well as your visit to Narbonne, consult the list of campsites.