Travel
Navigating Your Journey To And Through France
We are so thrilled you’re making the journey to celebrate with us! To help you plan your trip and make the most of your time, we’ve put together some helpful information on getting here, and what to explore in the beautiful surrounding area and across France.
Consider this your personal travel companion, designed to simplify every step of your adventure. We’re here to help ensure your entire French experience is nothing short of delightful.
Address
Chateau Hermitage de Combas,
34290
Servian, France
Getting to Château Hermitage de Combas
Whether you’re travelling by plane into a nearby airport, hopping on a train for a scenic journey, or prefer the flexibility of a rental car, we’ve got you covered with advice on reaching our venue.
Airport
Montpellier Méditerranée Airport (MPL):
Distance to Venue: Approximately 50-60 minutes drive.
A larger international airport with a wider range of airlines and direct flights from more European cities and some international hubs. This is often a good balance of convenience and flight availability.
Béziers Cap d’Agde Airport (BZR):
Distance to Venue: Approximately 15-20 minutes drive.
This is the closest airport, primarily served by low-cost carriers (like Ryanair) with direct flights from various European cities. While convenient, flight options might be more limited.
Marseille Provence Airport (MRS):
Distance to Venue: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes drive.
A major international airport with a very broad selection of airlines and direct flights from across Europe and beyond. This offers the most flight flexibility, though it’s a longer drive to the venue.
Carcassonne Airport (CCF):
Distance to Venue: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes drive.
Another smaller airport, also mainly served by low-cost carriers, offering connections to various European destinations.
Airport Transfer Service from Montpellier (MPL)
We understand that coordinating travel can be tricky, especially when arriving from afar! We’ll be arranging group transportation to and from Montpellier Méditerranée Airport (MPL) based on the number of guests interested in this service. If you’d like to utilize this convenient option, please indicate your interest when you RSVP so we can plan accordingly!
Train Station
France’s high-speed train network (SNCF) is excellent and can be a scenic way to travel, especially if you’re coming from Paris or other major French cities.
Béziers Train Station:
Distance to Venue: Approximately 20-25 minutes drive.
This is the closest major train station to Servian, offering direct TGV services from Paris and connections to other major French cities. From Béziers station, you’ll need to arrange a taxi or car rental for the final leg to the Château.
Montpellier Saint-Roch Train Station:
Distance to Venue: Approximately 50-60 minutes drive.
Montpellier has a larger train station with more frequent and varied connections across France and Europe. If you take the train to Montpellier, you can utilize our arranged airport transfer service from MPL airport (which is close to the train station) if you indicate your interest in your RSVP, or arrange a taxi or rental car from there.
Tips for French Rail (SNCF):
- Book in Advance: For the best prices, especially on high-speed TGV trains, book your tickets as far in advance as possible. Prices tend to increase closer to the travel date. Book on either SNCF Connect or Trainline.
- e-Tickets: SNCF uses e-tickets, which you can usually access on your phone or print at home.
- Validate Tickets: If you have a paper ticket (not an e-ticket), you must validate it by stamping it in one of the yellow machines (composteurs) at the entrance to the platform before boarding your train. Failure to do so can result in a fine. This is less common with modern e-tickets, but good to be aware of.
Car Rentals
We highly recommend renting a car for your stay if you want to explore the area. It offers the most flexibility as the venue is a bit in the middle of nowhere. You’ll find major car rental companies at all the airports mentioned above (Béziers, Montpellier, Carcassonne, Marseille). We suggest booking your rental car in advance, particularly for travel in July, as it’s peak season.
Remember to bring your valid driver’s license, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, though often not strictly required for short-term tourist visits for many nationalities (check your specific country’s requirements).
Here are some reputable car rental companies operating in France:
- Hertz
- Avis
- Europcar
- Budget
- Sixt
- Enterprise
Local Taxis & Ride-Shares
Taxis
Taxis are generally available at larger train stations and airports (like Béziers and Montpellier), but can be challenging to find on demand in smaller villages, especially late at night.
VTCVIP34
- Address: 3 Rue Georges Brassens, 34290 Servian, France
- Phone Number: +33 6 80 22 47 06
- Website: https://www.vtcvip34.com/
- This service is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Taxi-VTC du Sud
- Address: 41 Rue du Raisine, 34500 Béziers, France
- Phone Number: +33 7 66 11 48 50
- Website: https://www.sudvtc.fr/
- This service is also open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is based in nearby Béziers.
We highly recommend pre-booking any taxis you anticipate needing, particularly for late-night returns from the venue. Your accommodation provider might also be able to assist with arrangements.
Uber & Ride-Sharing
Ride-sharing services like Uber have limited availability in this region. While you might find some drivers in larger cities like Montpellier and Béziers, their presence in smaller towns and rural areas around Servian is sporadic at best. Do not rely on ride-sharing apps for transportation to or from the Château, especially after evening events.
Travel Advice
To help make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible, we’ve put together some useful travel advice. Find tips here on everything from travel insurance, passport and visa requirements, to adapters and staying connected without breaking the bank.
Passport & Visas
Your passport is your golden ticket! Make sure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date. You’ll also need at least one blank page for stamps.
If you are a citizen of a country that requires a Schengen visa to enter Europe, such as India, China, or South Africa, please begin your application process well in advance. We recommend starting at least 3-6 months before your planned travel dates.
Important for 2025 Travel: Citizens from many previously visa-exempt countries (such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation online before heading to the Schengen Area (Europe). This is not a visa, but a mandatory pre-travel authorisation, typically quick to apply for with a small fee (€7).
Travel Insurance & Health
We highly recommend travel and medical insurance for your trip, covering overseas medical costs, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. For our UK guests, an existing EHIC is valid until expiry, otherwise apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), but remember this is not a substitute for robust travel insurance.
Currency & Banking
The currency in France is the Euro (€), and major credit cards are widely accepted. However, it’s smart to carry some cash for smaller purchases or rural areas; ATMs are readily available. Remember to notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to France before you depart.
Electronics & Adapters
When packing electronics, remember France uses Type E or F outlets (two round pins) with a standard voltage of 230V at 50Hz. If you’re visiting from countries like the UK, US, Canada, or Australia, you’ll definitely need a travel adapter for your devices. Most modern electronics are dual voltage, but it’s always wise to double-check. A suitable adapter ensures you stay charged and connected!
In Case of Emergency
For any emergencies, the main number in France for all services (ambulance, police, fire) is 112.
Weather Conditions
Expect hot, dry, and very sunny weather in July, with temperatures typically in the high 20s to low 30s Celsius (80s-90s Fahrenheit). Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. Staying hydrated is key!
Cellphones & Data
Before you travel, check your mobile provider’s international roaming plans, as these can be expensive. For a more cost-effective option, consider a local French SIM or, ideally, an eSIM (apps like Airalo let you activate one before you leave). Free Wi-Fi will also be available at most hotels, guesthouses, and the Château.
Dining Etiquette & Culture
Meals in France are often long and leisurely; you’ll typically need to ask for the bill (“l’addition, s’il vous plaît”). Tipping is usually included (“service compris”), so extra isn’t mandatory, but rounding up for excellent service is common. Bread is served to be torn and placed on the table. Tap water is safe and often served in carafes if requested. Lastly, “un café” usually means an espresso; ask for “un café allongé” for a black coffee (americano).
Shopping & Business Hours
Be aware that many smaller shops, especially outside major tourist areas, often close for an extended lunch break (typically 12:30/1:00 PM to 2:00/3:00 PM). Most shops are also closed on Sundays. Pharmacies, marked by a green cross, can provide advice for minor ailments.
Exploring France
Beyond the Château: Exploring the Region
While we’re incredibly excited to celebrate with you at Château Hermitage de Combas, we know many of you will be extending your stay to explore the stunning Occitanie region. From historic towns to beautiful coastlines and world-class vineyards, there’s so much to discover right on our doorstep!
Charming Towns & Villages
The area around Servian is dotted with picturesque towns, each offering its own unique charm.
- Pézenas (Approx. 15-20 min drive): Its beautifully preserved historic center boasts narrow, winding streets, artisan shops, and stunning 17th and 18th-century architecture. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, boutique shopping, or enjoying a coffee in a charming square.
- Béziers (Approx. 15-20 min drive): A larger, historic city perched above the Orb River, Béziers is famous for its impressive Saint-Nazaire Cathedral, the Canal du Midi (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the Fonseranes Locks. Explore its ancient streets, enjoy views from the cathedral, or take a boat trip on the canal.
- Agde (Approx. 30-35 min drive): Known as the “Black Pearl of the Mediterranean” due to its buildings constructed from dark volcanic stone. Agde offers a charming old town, a historic port, and is close to the lively coastal resorts of Cap d’Agde and Grau d’Agde.
- Villages of the Hérault: Countless smaller, authentic villages like Valros, Tourbes, Montagnac, and Boujan-sur-Libron are just a short drive away, perfect for experiencing genuine local life and finding hidden culinary delights.
Vineyards & Wine Tasting
You’re in the heart of Languedoc-Roussillon, France’s largest wine region! This area is renowned for its diverse wines, particularly reds.
- Local Domains: Many vineyards surrounding Servian and Combas offer direct sales and tastings (dégustation). Look for signs like “Dégustation Vente” (Tasting & Sale). Some châteaux near the venue, like Domaine de Nizas or Château Saint-Martin de la Garrigue, offer tours and tastings.
- Wine Routes: Follow designated wine routes (often signposted “Route des Vins”) to explore different appellations like Faugères, Pézenas, and Saint-Chinian.
- Seigneurie de Peyrat (Alignan du Vent): A beautiful and historic wine estate very close to Servian that often offers tours and tastings.
Coastlines & Beaches
The Mediterranean coast is easily accessible, offering sandy beaches and charming seaside towns.
- Cap d’Agde (Approx. 30-35 min drive): A bustling resort town with a variety of beaches, a large marina, water sports, and vibrant nightlife.
- Marseillan Plage & Marseillan Ville (Approx. 30-40 min drive): Marseillan Ville is a picturesque port town on the Étang de Thau (a large saltwater lagoon famous for oysters), offering lovely waterfront restaurants. Marseillan Plage has long sandy beaches.
- Sète (Approx. 40-50 min drive): Known as the “Venice of Languedoc,” Sète is a working port city with canals, colorful fishing boats, excellent seafood restaurants, and a more authentic, gritty charm.
Outdoor Activities & Markets
For those who love the outdoors or looking to experience the vibrant local culture, the region offers plenty of opportunities.
- Canal du Midi: Rent a boat (no license often required for smaller ones), cycle along the towpaths, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll by this historic waterway. The Fonseranes Locks in Béziers are an impressive feat of engineering.
- Gorges de l’Hérault: A bit further inland (approx. 45-60 min drive), you’ll find stunning gorges perfect for kayaking, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and hiking. Don’t miss the picturesque village of Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and the Pont du Diable (Devil’s Bridge).
- Lac du Salagou: A large, striking red-earthed lake (approx. 45 min drive) offering a unique landscape, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, cycling, and hiking.
- Pézenas Market: Held on Saturday mornings, it’s one of the best and most vibrant markets in the area, offering local produce, cheeses, olives, crafts, and clothing.
- Béziers Markets: Various markets throughout the week, including a large flower market on Fridays and an indoor market (Les Halles) daily.
- Local Village Markets: Check with your accommodation or local tourist information for market days in smaller villages like Servian itself, or nearby Gabian, Roujan, or Magalas.
Places to Discover in France
France is a country brimming with iconic landmarks, rich history, diverse landscapes, and unparalleled culture. While we can’t wait to celebrate with you, we hope you’ll take the opportunity to explore some of the incredible sights and experiences this beautiful country has to offer.
Whether you’re extending your trip before or after the wedding, here’s a taste of what awaits you:
Iconic Cities & Cultural Hubs
- Paris: The City of Light: No trip to France is complete without experiencing Paris. Marvel at the Eiffel Tower, explore world-class museums like the Louvre (home to the Mona Lisa) and the Musée d’Orsay, stroll along the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe, and discover the bohemian charm of Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Don’t forget to enjoy a Bateaux Mouches cruise on the Seine River.
- Nice: Jewel of the French Riviera: Located on the stunning Côte d’Azur, Nice offers a vibrant promenade (Promenade des Anglais), beautiful pebble beaches, a charming Old Town (Vieux Nice) with its colorful markets, and excellent art museums like the Matisse Museum and Chagall Museum. It’s a fantastic base for exploring the Riviera.
- Marseille: A Port City with Soul: As France’s oldest city, Marseille is a bustling port with a rich, multicultural history. Visit the historic Vieux Port (Old Port), explore the vibrant Le Panier district, and take a boat trip to the stunning Calanques National Park for breathtaking cliffs and turquoise waters.
- Lyon: Gastronomic Capital: Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its exceptional cuisine. Explore the historic Vieux Lyon with its hidden “traboules” (passageways), visit the Roman ruins, and indulge in a traditional “bouchon” restaurant.
Natural Landmarks
- French Alps: For mountain enthusiasts, the French Alps offer stunning scenery, charming villages, and activities ranging from hiking and climbing in the summer to world-class skiing in the winter (e.g., around Chamonix and Mont Blanc).
- Dordogne Region: Known for its prehistoric cave paintings (like Lascaux), picturesque medieval villages (such as Sarlat-la-Canéda), and beautiful rivers for kayaking and canoeing.
- Lavender Fields of Provence: If your trip extends earlier in July, you might catch the tail end of the famous lavender bloom in Provence (typically mid-June to mid-July), particularly around the Valensole plateau – a truly breathtaking sight and smell!
- Brittany & Normandy Coasts: Discover rugged coastlines, dramatic cliffs, charming fishing villages, and unique cultural traditions in these northwestern regions.
Historical Gems & Châteaux
- Loire Valley Châteaux: Step into a fairytale in the Loire Valley, home to magnificent castles like Château de Chambord (the largest), Château de Chenonceau (spanning the River Cher), and Château de Villandry with its spectacular gardens. You can tour these grand estates and imagine life as French royalty.
- Mont Saint-Michel: A Medieval Wonder: This iconic tidal island, crowned by a majestic abbey, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of France’s most recognizable landmarks. Its unique setting and impressive architecture make it an unforgettable visit.
- Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches: For those interested in history, the Normandy coast offers a poignant journey through the sites of the D-Day landings, including Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery, and the preserved bunkers.
- Avignon: Papal City: In Provence, Avignon is famous for its Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace), a formidable medieval fortress, and the Pont d’Avignon (Saint-Bénézet Bridge), both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Wine Regions & Culinary Delights
- Bordeaux: World-renowned for its prestigious wines, the Bordeaux region offers countless vineyards for tours and tastings. Explore the elegant city of Bordeaux itself.
- Burgundy: Famous for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines, Burgundy is also a region of charming villages, historic abbeys, and delicious regional cuisine.
- Champagne: Visit the cellars of famous Champagne houses in Reims or Épernay and learn about the sparkling wine production process.
- Regional Cuisine: Every region of France boasts its own culinary specialties. From coq au vin in Burgundy to bouillabaisse in Marseille, crêpes in Brittany, and cassoulet in the Southwest, be sure to indulge in the local flavors wherever your travels take you.
Your Guide to Paris
To help you navigate the City of Light, we’ve compiled a list of recommendations for dining, drinks, and notable attractions. Enjoy your Parisian adventure!
Restaurants
Typical French Restaurants (for a Classic Experience)
- Chez Gladines (first one in the 13th ideally, Southwestern French food)
- Le Plomb du Cantal (sausages and aligot, South Central France)
- Les Petits Crus (literally just cheese and wine
- A La Biche Au Bois (Nation, hearty)
- Mamie Colette (near Pigalle, which is where the Moulin Rouge is)
- Les Cocottes (I don’t recommend eating by the Eiffel Tower, but if you do, here)
- Au Pied de Cochon (mainly because it’s central and it’s open until 5am)
Diverse & Delicious Options
- L’Îlot (seafood, really good but really small place)
- Vino e Cucina (Italian bar and restaurant with live jazz music, good food, lively) https://www.vino-cucina.com/en/
- Artisan de la Truffe Marais (if you like truffles, everything is truffles here, including the salt)
- L’As du Falafel (know to have the best falafel place in Paris, in the Jewish quarter). It’ll be busy, if you don’t want to wait you can go to Le Roi du Falafel. It’s good, not as good though
- La Perla (good, proper Mexican restaurant, but expensive)
- Bocamexa (favorite “faster food” Mexican)
- Prosper et Fortunée (one of our favorites, run by one person, quite expensive, no menu, great food)
- PNY (good fast food burger)
- Mali (Thai food in the 13th, average decor but best Thai food)
- Kodawari Ramen (ramen set in a Japanese-style street, queue only but good)
- Restaurant Kodawari Tsukiji (ramen set in a Japanese-style fish market, queue only but good)
- Lalà: La Lasagneria
- Soya (vegetarian restaurant)
- You (really good sushi, but specify if you don’t want wasabi in the roll)
- Le Bar à sushi Izumi (small, great sushi)
- Aux Plumes (in the 14th)
- Sadarnac
Brunch Spots
- 36 & 3rd (solid brunch, can book)
- Holybelly (Australian-style brunch; long queue)
- The Hardware Society (good brunch; long queue)
- Benedict – 19 rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie 4ème
- Marlette
- Kozy Paris
- République of coffee
- Umami Matcha Cafe (matcha, available everywhere)
- Bül
- Marie thé
- BAB: Bar à Brioches
Coffee Shops
- KB café
- Strada café
- Dose
- Terres de Café
- Braun Notes
- Ob-La-Di
- Peloton
- Grande Mosquée de Paris (for mint tea, not coffee)
Ice Cream
- Grom (simple but very good)
- Glace Bachir (Lebanese ice cream, often a long queue but potentially worth it)
Bars
- Castor Club (tiny, great bar, nondescript door)
- Experimental Cocktail Club (“hidden” cocktail bar)
- Jefrey’s (cocktail bar opposite the above)
- Prescription Cocktail Club
- La Rhumerie (rum and créole food)
- Caveau Montpensier (if in the area)
- Rosa Bonheur sur Seine (a bar on a boat in the Seine)
- Chez Daniel (my favourite “bar” which is just a hole in the wall on the river bank near the Town Hall. You can play pétanque for free, it’s cash only, very basic, outside only—literally on the pedestrianised road)
- Le Pavillon des Canaux (on the canal, but the inside is themed on a house, so you can have a drink in the “living room”, and “bathroom”)
Rooftop Bars (for Views & Vibes)
- Terrass Hotel (rooftop bar, good space, cool views)
- 43 up on the roof (top of the Holiday Inn)
- Bar at the top of Hôtel National des Arts et Métiers (expensive, but chill)
- The Shed (Rooftop: Hôtel des Grands Boulevards)
- Le Perchoir (rooftop bar, younger crowd)
- Ciel De Paris (Champagne bar at the top of Montparnasse tower, cool for the champagne and view, but often crowded)
Notable Things to Do
- Arc de Triomphe: favourite view in Paris
- Montmartre & Terrass Hotel for a drink when in the area
- Basin de la Villette with a stop in Le Pavillon des Canaux
- View of the Eiffel Tower from Trocadéro
- Walk along the Seine (south side, a stop at Rosa Bonheur sur Seine; north side, Chez Daniel)
- Walk along/near Rue de Rivoli (Jardin de Tuileries) down to Le Louvre (longer walk, start at Arc de Triomph and walk through Champs Elysées). Once at the bottom, a stop in Caveau Montpensier is decent
- Palais Garnier (Opéra), good to visit, loads of shops are nearby, including Galeries Lafayette (which is split across multiple buildings). View from the top of the Galeries Lafayette also nice
- Coulée Verte (converted train tracks, turned green walk; similar to the NYC High Line but in Paris)
- Grande Mosquée: is a mosque where you can get some mint tea
- Les Bulles de Paris: massage and spa with Champagne
