West of Sete lies the Etang de Thau, the biggest saltwater lake in Languedoc. On the eastern side of the Etang de Thau lies a narrow strip of headland with golden sand separating the Etang de Thau from the Mediterranean.
Situated in a small valley, insulated from the outside world, lies the Abbey of Fontfroide. This is one of largest Cistercian monasteries in France and a popular Languedoc site. Its architecturally beautiful buildings are the heritage of the monastic past. Founded in the 11th Century by the Count of Narbonne Abbaye de Fontfroide enjoyed a prosperous existence, before falling into a steady decline.
Avignon arrived on the World's stage when in 1303 the Vatican decided to move away from the anarchic violence of Rome to the peaceful pastures of Provence. Although they only stayed for 70 years their legacy can still be seen on the beautiful streets of Avignon. Today Avignon is a charming city, with lots of bustling streets and squares. Read on for more useful Avignon, France, tourism information.
