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 Corbiere 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.

Fort de Salses

Description: This is an unusual fort set low in a deep moat, which started life as a Spanish fort.

Location: Close to the coast, 15km north of Perpignan on the N9 at Salses le Château.

General Info: Tel: 04 68 38 60 13. Open  from June 1 to September 30: 9:30AM- 7.00PM and from October 1 to May 31: 10:00AM -12:15PM and 2:00PM – 5:00PM.  Closed on all public holidays.

Our recommendations:  Ask for the English guidebook available at the ticket desk.  Although there are guided tours, you are free to find your own way around.  There is a small museum that explains the construction of the castle.

For the children:  Combine a visit here with a trip to the beach on the other side of the Etang de Leucate to ensure the children have a great day out.

Here’s more information to make the most of your visit to Languedoc: