If you like your nature untamed then come and explore the wild countryside of the Languedoc Roussillon in France. With the Pyrenees to the south of the region and the Black mountains to the north there are plenty of options for the adventurous. What you might not realise however is that there is plenty of beauty to take in if you fancy a more sedate experience. As well as rugged landscapes there are also a number of well tended and exotic gardens here.
The Jardin aux Plantes de La Bouichere in the town of Limoux is just one example. Situated about half an hour from the famous city of Carcassonne this private garden is run by M and Mme Gerber who have been lovingly tending this two hectare site for the last twenty five years. With over two thousand plants you can be sure to be surprised and impressed by at least something!
I’m not a big fan of the French gite or holiday rental option when it come to taking a vacation. I think if there’s a big group of you or if you have a large family I can definitely see the appeal. Indeed in those instances I think it also makes complete economic sense because splitting the rent for a weeks holiday rental will be a lot cheaper than hotel or B&B accommodation.
However when there’s just two of you I’ve found it less than satisfactory. I’ve stayed sef catering accommodation in the Languedoc and on both occasions been disappointed. Once the place we stayed in was just too big for two people and we felt like we were rattling around in the place. Most gites tend to cater for four or more perople which makes sense for the rental owners. The second time the place wasn’t as good as it looked in the photos and by then it’s too late and there’s not really anyone to complain to. Of course maybe I’m just too fussy!
