FOR CULTURE Montpellier

What to see and do Drenched in Mediterranean sunshine with golden beaches on its doorstep, Montpellier is a blend of elegant boulevards, stately mansions and medieval lanes (left). The Musée Fabre, museefabre. montpellier3m.fr, has one of France’s most impressive collections of art, while the enchanting Jardins des Plantes is the oldest botanical garden in France. Around the city, visit Les Folies – impressive 18th-century mansions and chateaux built by rich wine merchants, and when the sightseeing is done, feel the sand between your toes at Espiguette beach. Where to eat Le Petit Jardin, petit-jardin.com, is a good option, with both a gourmet restaurant and a more casual bistro.

Where to stay Set in a glorious vineyard, the Domaine de Verchant, domainedeverchant.com, is a traditional 16th-century château.