OCTOBER 2022 : FRANCE : Beziers

Early breakfast as everyone had early buses to catch

Today we are heading south to Béziers

The one bus stop is in a large car park near the post office. We learnt quickly that these drivers wait for no-one as we were too slow to get to the kerb for the 8.20 Alés bus. Fortunately the only other morning bus arrived in 20 minutes. The rest of our contingent took the bus to Nîmes.

It was an hour trip (€1.50 pp) to Alés train station. We had a pleasant hour’s wait in a cafe across the way. Meanwhile I had a phone call from Beziers to inform us we have been given another booking as Hotel Particulier is closed this week due to staff shortages. Interesting to see what it is like.

Train to Beziers 

On the left our original hotel and next door where we are staying In Situ.

Quite a contrast in design!

This is a 4 star hotel. Beautifully designed and decorated. Peaceful courtyard with infinity pool.


Mark’s cousin’s daughter, Annika, and her family live in Béziers. She met us at our hotel, with her gorgeous baby daughter, Clemènce, and we had a fascinating walk through the town.

A rich history as a fortress town, including Cathar times and the inquisition.

Lots of little plazas and alleyways to explore.



The cathedral precinct was interesting. It is housed just within the city wall, next to the old jail and from which there are sweeping views of the River Orb,, the Pyrenees and the Massif Central. I climbed the 165 steps up the tower for these photos.

Hotel garden area

Ten minute walk to main square



The hotel recommended and booked us a table at Pica Pica in the main plaza. It was an exceptional meal, beautifully served and fabulous flavours. A mojito to start.

The standout was an Asian-style mackerel dish.

We also had squid in a thick flavoursome sauce and a prawn pasta with a fennel foam!

 

Just discovered this crazy lighting on our bed head. Mark is oblivious.

Goodnight!

M&M