Page 24 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - France

THE PYRÉNÉES
PAGE 448 Stretching all the way from the Atlantic
to the Mediterranean, the Pyrenees
present a formidable natural border
between France and Spain. The craggy
peaks and snaking valleys are home to
rare flora and fauna, and fantastic hik­
DISCOVER Getting to Know France such as those of Foix and Montségur
ing trails where walkers can try to spot
these rarities. Castles and fortresses
are reminders of the region’s strategic
importance and centuries of siege. The
Basques, the most ancient inhabitants
of these mountains, display their
unique language and culture in towns
like Bayonne and St­Jean­de Luz.
Best for
Mountain scenery, wildlife, historic
citadels, regional food and wine
Home to
Parc National des Pyrénées
Experience
Soaking up the Basque culture
and food in Bayonne

LANGUEDOC AND Best for
Arty beach towns, Cathar
PAGE 468 ROUSSILLON castles, Roman ruins
Home to
Sun­kissed Languedoc and Roussillon boasts miles
Carcassonne, Montpellier, Nîmes
of heavenly sandy beaches along the Mediterranean
coast, while fields of sunflowers and vineyards stretch Experience
over inland hills. There are plenty of enticing sights to Climbing the craggy peaks and
explore. Pocket­sized Montpellier is one of the most into deep-forested valleys of
seductive little cities in France, while the perfectly stunning Cathar country
pre served citadel of Carcassonne and a string of
vertiginous Cathar castles vie with remarkable Roman
monu ments – including the astonishing Pont du Gard.

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