In the Area

Cap d’Agde

The picturesque beach of Agde is just 25 minutes away from Pezenas. Relax on the soft sand, or wade into the gentle waves of the ocean. The area also has a lively harbor area and stellar seafood restaurants. Agde also boasts a lively night club scene, with popular clubs such as Amnesia, as well as a night carnival called Luna Park (pictured above).

Aigue Morte

This commune is surrounded by ancient city walls. Pink salt fields provide an ethereal hue to the landscape. The vibrant colors make this destination a photographer's dream. From here, you can easily access the Camargues (see below).

Arles

This UNESCO world heritage site is a must-visit for art and culture lovers. Tour the restored Roman amphitheater, then visit the cutting edge art center that secures Arles as a nexus of historical and modern art. Van Gogh fans may see the hospital from which he painted in his more troubled years, and sit at the cafe featured in his Cafe Terrace at Night. The cafe has been renamed Van Gogh Cafe in homage of this great painter who captured the spirit of this Provencal village in his master pieces.

Avignon

The former seat of Popes, capitol of the Cotes du Rhones, Avignon is a magical city with a lively food and theater scene. Only an hour and 45 minutes away by car, you have time to visit the UNESCO sites of the St. Benezet Bridge and the Pope's Palace, wander through the market, then dine at one of several Michelin starred restaurants with enough time to come home to the night markets in Pezenas.

Beziers

Only a twenty minute drive from Pezenas is this gem of a medieval city that is off the beaten track, unknown by most tourists. Visit its cathedral, town square, and picturesque bridge.

Carcassonne

One of the oldest towns in Provence, Carcassonne was first inhabited in the pre-Roman period. Its fortress walls, built to best advantage to access its natural resources and ward off invaders, has inspired the popular board game Carcassonne. The entire town is now a UNESCO world heritage site. Only a one hour drive away, you have time to visit in the morning, and be home to the Couvent to play the game while enjoying a glass of rose by evening!

Camargues

Just under Arles lies the protected, natural paradise of the Camargues. Home to several species of birds, the region is perhaps best known for its wild, white horses, and prized, black bulls. Equally romantic are The Guardians - the cowboys of the region who tend to these magnificent species. The best way to see this region is to take a road trip here, to give you the most freedom to explore. Only an hour and twenty minutes away, this is easily achieved by using the Couvent as your base.

Canal Du Midi

UNESCO's description of this world heritage site: "This 360-km network of navigable waterways linking the Mediterranean and the Atlantic through 328 structures (locks, aqueducts, bridges, tunnels, etc.) is one of the most remarkable feats of civil engineering in modern times. Built between 1667 and 1694, it paved the way for the Industrial Revolution. The care that its creator, Pierre-Paul Riquet, took in the design and the way it blends with its surroundings turned a technical achievement into a work of art." Today, you may take your own boat down this magnificent waterway, or if your budget allows, you may hire a luxury hotel barge to cruise in style for several days.

Montpellier

Many visitors fly into Montpellier to begin their sojourn in the South of France. From here, it's only a 45 minute drive to Pezenas on easily navigable, modern roads. If you prefer not to drive, buses or trains are available. If you choose to spend some time visiting the modern city of Montpellier, there is much in the way of entertainment. Montpellier hosts an international dance competition in June, holds two wine conventions for industry experts, boasts historic architecture, and has several name brand boutiques.

Sète

Only thirty minutes away from the Couvent is the picturesque seaside village of Sete.