Hotels in Béziers

Béziers is one of France's oldest cities, a hilltop town above the River Orb in the Hérault wine country, crowned by the fortress-like Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire. Its history is darker than its sunny setting suggests. In 1209, during the Albigensian Crusade, the town was sacked and its population massacred, the episode behind the infamous line "Kill them all, God will know his own." It is also the birthplace of Pierre-Paul Riquet, builder of the Canal du Midi, and the staircase of Fonseranes locks just outside town is the canal's most impressive sight.

Locals are passionate about rugby, and the August feria brings bullfighting, bands and huge crowds. Be honest: the old centre has struggled economically, with empty shopfronts and a somewhat tired feel away from the main avenues, so it rewards a day or two rather than a long stay. The Mediterranean beaches are only a short drive away. Stay near the Allées Paul Riquet, the leafy central promenade, for easy walking access to the cathedral, restaurants and the train station.