The very first place I visited when I arrived in France in Jan 2008 was Cessenon Sur Orb, one of the oldest cities of the Occitan. It is steeped in history and well worth reading up on before you come. There are a number of heritage sites to see including the medieval house.

It is halfway between the Cevenne (Caroux and Espinouze mountains) and the Mediterranean coast. It is famous for its international Kayaking competitions and rapids.

Start with a drink in L’Helda bar which is great in summer sitting under the plane trees and a stroll down the river. I have fond memories of tasting my very first “Tartiflet” and spending a wonderful French evening with some of “the locals” at the bar. The Restaurant de L’Orb does some really lovely food and is definitely worth a visit, lovely to sit out in the pretty terrace in summer.

The small market on Saturday is great for local produce, goats cheese, veggies and Cessenon has the best butcher for miles! Go and visit “Calas” next to the bank, It’s like a butchers used to be! We recommend the fricandeau (meat usually veal taken from the leg, slice it for an aperitif) and I love the Rillette d’oie (like a goose potted meat ) You can order BBQ stuff in advance during the busy seasons. Our BBQ pack has their burgers and sausages in it. There are 2 bakers in the village, chemists, bank, small supermarket, post office.

The Mini Ferme (mini farm) is great for small children to visit. Reals also has a great traditional French restaurant and if you go up to Réals, there are BBQs there and you can take everything with you and spend a day at the river watching the kayaks, or stay at the river beach in Cessenon itself.

The pretty square is the focal point in summer for the Fete which is usually held around the 13th August. Join in the dancing! 14th July you can go and watch the fireworks over the river from the beautiful bridge. Book a restaurant early in advance if you want to eat out.

There are 4 walking trails from the village. Petanque competitions ( boules) are held every Wednesday evening in July and August. There is also a “voie verte” or cycling path now which runs through Cessenon.

Pop in and say hello to Olivier and his team at L’Helda