Barcelona then drive(?)to ?in south of France
 

Would like to visit Barcelona. Figure that 4 or 5 days should be enough (with 4 urchins). Would like to find a home base for about another two weeks.
Did whirlwind tour of Europe against best wishes of Fodorites. It was a lot, but DH had never been to Europe. Crazy trip instilled a bug to go back, but would like to relax this time.
There seems to be a lot of interesting places on the way to Montpellier. Should we take our time travelling along this route? Could someone suggest a good small village to have a home base? Will it be warm enough to swim on the coast?(we are Canadians-so slightly crazy) What would be 3 or 4 must do day trips around this area?

Hi

You don't say what time of year.
The sea will be reasonably warm from mid may to mid October.

If you base yourself near Sete / Pezenas, you are well positioned to visit the Pyrenees coast (Collioure etc), Carcassonne, Andorra, the Cevennes, Camargue and Provence.

Peter

Carcasonne for the touched city walls
Canal du Midi say at Bezier to see the locks
Camargue to see the horses
Avignon to see the Popes palace
Nimes or Arles or Gard du Tarn to see Roman Buildings as they were built plus a lot more

we are travelling middle of April to beginning of May. Have been reading the various questions/replies. Would the Dordgone area be more suited to sightseeing with four children aged 3 to 14?

Hi Mom,

1. If you pick up a car and drop it off in France you will paya very large dropoff fee.

2. Oh, the possibilities.

2a. See the Narbonne-Beynac part of my trip report
http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...p;tid=34676645

3. Enter at www.mappy.com the route (without toll) from Perpignan to Perpignan via Montfavet (Avignon), St. Chely du tarn, Millau, Cahors, Carcassone.

For the section between Rodez and Cahors, plot a new course via Figeac along either the Celey or Lot rivers.

You will go through the Gorges du Tarn, see the Millau Bridge and visit Peche Merle and St Cirq le Popie.

Enjoy your visit.

((I))