Who we areVivre Ensemble En Minervois (VEEM) is an association of nearly 400 members from around 19 or more different nationalities. The association was created in 2009 and continues to go from strength to strength.
We are based in Olonzac in the heart of the Minervois wine-growing region in the Languedoc but our members also come from the surrounding towns and villages within a radius of 25-30 km.
We are an entirely independent and voluntary association; all our activities are organised and managed by our members.
Our aimOur aim is to foster relations between new arrivals in the area and local people, to create a meeting space to bring together different nationalities and cultures.
Our wide range of activities is aimed at helping people to find their feet in a new environment, to make new friends and to explore and understand the region and its rich cultural heritage.
VEEM means ‘Welcome’ in any languageAt VEEM, we take pride in being a friendly, welcoming and inclusive association.
Many of our members tell us that they have developed strong and lasting friendships through their membership of VEEM.
Anyone from any nationality who is interested in supporting our aims and participating in our activities is welcome.
Come and join us!
Language workshopsFor an association whose main purpose is to foster links between different nationalities, the language workshops have always been one of our core activities.
GardeningHigh temperatures and limited water can make Mediterranean gardening a challenge. We offer a variety of garden- and plant-based events where you can get inspiration and help from fellow members.
Wine appreciationFind out about the art and science of wine tasting or come along to local vineyards, meeting the proprietors and learning about viticulture.
Walks and hikesWe organise a range of walks of differing lengths and difficulties - from short, easy rambles of around 5km to longer hikes and occasional weekend treks for those in top hiking condition.
Come with us and discover some of the most beautiful routes in the region.
CultureWe celebrate the richness of fine arts, performing arts, literature, music and film, learning together and sharing the diversity around us.
Birdwatching and wild flowersFind out more about the wonderful bird life and wild flowers of our region by taking part in one of our expert-led birdwatching outings or spring wild flower walks.
How to contact usYou can contact us in a number of ways
By using the email link at the foot of this page
In person at the office on Tuesday mornings between 10.00 and 11.30 am (closed on bank holidays and for 6 weeks in July and August)
By email or telephone to individual members of the Council and other organisers – see the VEEM contacts list under Help & information on the top menu
By post – our address is 8 Place du Marché aux Herbes, 34210 Olonzac