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The “Gorges de l’Orb”
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From the castle of Cassan in the north of Pézenas to Roquebrun and its Mediterranean garden via Olargues and the impressive valley of the Orb, the river wich flows through Béziers.
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The Haute Vallée de l’Orb
The Upper Orb Valley is verdant country in the hills of Upper Languedoc. This holiday region has long been prized for its waters and its spa towns, such as Avène and Lamalou-les-Bains. Today, visitors can also discover – or rediscover – its Vins de Pays, whose distinctive character is synonymous with altitude. The vines are planted high up on the hillsides and mountain slopes, yielding red, white and rosé wines that the growers nurture with passion and pride. And you can taste the difference – these Vins de Pays de la Haute Vallée de l’Orb that take their source in the Upper Orb Valley will captivate the most discerning palate.
Olargues
the village is situated on a wide bend of the Jaur and offers various shops and restaurants with two excellent boulangeries, a butchers and other essential shops. The village also includes a large interpretative center, which offers many interesting activities. The Devils bridge is spectacular as is the old church which is accessed through the narrow old streets.
One could also swim at many points on the river. About 10 minutes from Olargues travelling towards Bedarieux one comes to Mons la Trivaille which is a major centre for hillwalking and rock-climbing in the spectacular scenery of the Gorge d Heric which appears as a giant sabre slash through the mountains. The gorge offers remarkable beauty and every opportunity to walk, hike climb or swim in crystal clear pools.
Just beyond Mons is the tiny hamlet of Tarrassac with its suspension bridge, beaches and canoe bases. In the other direction one can travel through the lovely villages of St.Etienne and Riols before arriving at the old town of St. Pons which offers a wide range of shops and boasts an excellent street market every Wednesday.
Roquebrun
This delightful village has a beautiful and extensive beach on the Orb river from which you can swim or canoe. The village also boasts the interesting Mediterranean garden built up the hillside above the village thus also offering magnificent views up and down the valley.
Lamalou-les-Bains: This is a famous spa town with numerous curative springs and a host of other amenities including a casino, restaurants, a golf course and a riding school.
St.Chinian:This is a small town with numerous shops and restaurants and an excellent market held on Sundays in the large shaded square lined by the Marie which looks out onto formal gardens. This is an area renowned for its remarkable wines as is the whole area of Faugeres and the Minerve which are all easily accessible.
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