A pretty city close to the edge Cévennes National Park and the striking landscapes of rural Lozère, Mende is a wonderful gateway to this part of Occitanie. Most visitors find Mende an appealing base for wider explorations and adventure sports. Accommodation options include private townhouses, B&Bs and charming traditional hotels, perfect for a range of tastes and budgets. Gather at one of the best places to stay in Mende to plot your outdoorsy adventures!
A particularly popular cycling area, Mende’s countryside is criss-crossed with mountain biking, horse riding and hiking trails. Fish for pike in Charpal Lake, which also boasts a lovely 9km cycling trail, clamber atop the Grand Causses, trek through Margeride’s heaths and wildflower-clad hills, and marvel at the craggy landscapes of the Cévennes National Park. For unusual wildlife encounters, head to the Loups de Gévaudan Wildlife Park, where you can see the wolves which once roamed this wild region.
Mende itself is home to beautiful mansions lining little lanes and leafy squares; leisurely strolls through the city centre come highly recommended. Don’t miss the Saint-Private Cathedral, with its impressive bell tower, or the Notre-Dame Bridge over the picturesque Lot River. Return to one of the best places to stay in Mende for delicious seasonal fare in a candlelit courtyard — an Occitanie evening of dreams.
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Mende
French country hotel with simple (predominantly white), pretty rooms that ooze class and style. Features include terracotta tiled floors and spacious bathrooms with rolltop baths & rain showers. Excellent restaurant too! A great base for exploring the Cevennes National Park & wider Languedoc region.
