Our Heritage: Discover Hérault in Occitanie and its surroundings
A region rich in visits, around your holiday cottage:
In Occitanie , between the emerald green colors of the Thau pond for a shell tasting (Meze, Sète, Bouzigues ..) and the turquoise blue of our beautiful Mediterranean beaches (Marseillan, Cap d' Agde , Valras, Sète, Vias. .); Between the clayey reds around Lake Salagou, limestone whites of the historic town of Pezenas with its stalls "Mirondella del Arts" and the slate gray of the beautiful village of St Guilhem le Desert.
PEZENAS:
Pezenas is a city of Art and History with a beautiful heritage: many mansions of the sixteenth, seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, such as the hotel de Lacoste, the hotel Malibran or the hotel d 'Alfonce succeed each other. And pretty paved streets lined with craft stalls lend themselves to strolling. Pezenas also has the particularity of having been in the 17th century the place of stay of Molière.
The Maison des Métiers d'Art, located in the former consular house, is dedicated to know-how and crafts.
In early June, " Pezenas Under the Eye of Molière" is a party during which the old town is animated by street performances.
Pezenas is a small town of about 9,000 inhabitants, located between Béziers and Montpellier, 20 minutes from the Mediterranean in Hérault Sea. Its pedestrian historical center, well saved, and its picturesque streets make it a must-visit place in the Hérault . You will find there year-round craftsmen, antique dealers, festivals and animations.
Near the vineyards, it is also a starting point to discover the Languedoc wines: terroir of Pezenas , Picpoul de Pinet, Faugères and Vin de pays.
Specialties: berlingots de Pezenas , artisanal pâtés of Pezenas . Many restaurants, snacks, ice cream parlors, bakeries, pastries in the city center.
Every Saturday morning: Cours Jean Jaurès Market from 9am to 6pm.
Molière Festival in all its Shards in June. Theater, cinema, concert, festival and show for all ages for all tastes!
Every Wednesday of July-August, the cellars Molière: evenings music, food and wine from 19:30; 39 avenue de Verdun.
Every Friday evening of July-August, the summer: wine tasting of the region of Pezenas ( Occitanie ); Jean Jaurès course.
Municipal swimming pool in summer season.
Etang de Thau:
Thau pond is the largest pond in Occitanie (19 km long, 5 km wide). It is a major attraction for the inhabitants of its shores as well as for visitors. This natural resource gave birth to a series of artisanal activities: mussel farming and oyster farming. These cultures are facilitated by the diversity and abundance of phytoplankton that these molluscs feed on. This abundance is due to moderately deep, warm waters and the slow movement of these waters.
Thau is a true small inland sea that is home to exceptional biological diversity. Shellfish aquaculture is practiced by means of breeding tables owned by the owners. They are formed of metal piles planted in the bottom of the pond. These stakes support planks either iron or wood and these planks receive poles placed transversely to which are suspended every 50 cm ropes carrying oysters or mussels.
Marseillan:
Between sea and lagoon of Thau, there is a haven of peace which by its authenticity and its differences makes it unavoidable.
His name ? Marseillan! Crazy charm of a port with a rich historical past, world heritage with the Canal du Midi, protected areas, paradise of an exceptional flora and fauna, long sandy beaches, Marseillan is also a high place of the culture of the oyster and wonderful wines.
A former port with successive vocations, its main activity was first fishing, then, at the beginning of the century, the wine trade made its fortune. Today, its port, widely appreciated by boaters, is the ultimate stopover of the Canal du Midi; it is indeed in Marseillan that the work of Pierre-Paul Riquet, classified in the world inheritance of Unesco, finishes peacefully its course in the Lagoon of Thau with "the tip of the Onglous". Throughout the streets, Marseillan reveals its covered square in the Venetian frame of the seventeenth century, its statue of the Republic listed in the inventory of historical monuments ... Listen to its stones tell you the history of Languedoc ... Let yourself be enchanted by its tasty products from the terroir: oysters, wines ... and do not miss the visit of the Noilly Prat cellars ... The aperitif of connoisseurs and great chefs!
Discover the unique panoramas of Natura 2000 natural areas! Here, the landscape is wild: flamingos, herons, egrets, hundreds of birds camp on the banks of the reserve Bagnas. The fauna and flora charm with their richness ...
Athletes are not left out since the lagoon and the sea offer a privileged space for the practice of a multitude of activities: sailing, kitesurfing, water ski, electric boat ride, water skiing, rowing, rowing, fishing ...
To live intensely your holidays in Marseillan is to fully enjoy the privileges of a long sandy beach, hot and golden where children frolic safely.
Marseillan is finally Receive and Share! The town is attracted by its wide range of activities and entertainment throughout the seasons: typical markets, night craft market, traditional festivals where jousting tournaments and races to the bigue without forgetting the major events events: Fête St. Peter's Day, local festival, oyster festival, beach party, holiday party and other festive musical events (Latin nights ...)
Decidedly, in Marseillan, the world really offers itself to you!
AGDE:
You can admire the old historic center of Agde where a guided tour will be offered. His cooler, his museum ...
Lovers of water, discover the aquatic center Archipel The City of Water, with its pool, spa, hot tubs.
Bike paths will allow you to ride safely
Cap d'Agde is a Mediterranean destination par excellence with 14 km of beach and 300 days of sunshine.
It is also a destination of traditions that is full of treasures such as the fort of Brescou or the Saint-Etienne cathedral built in volcanic stone.
National Nature Reserve of Bagnas, Mont Saint-Loup, walks in the heart of the vineyards or along the Canal du Midi ... It's all the territory of Cap d' Agde which is extraordinary! Cape Agde :
In Cap-d' Agde , you will discover the famous tourist city, but also the elegant marina.
In the evening, you can stroll on the ports where restaurants, cafes, bars and cabarets follow one another.
The Ile des Loisirs, facing the port, is full of games and rides, and also offers casino and disco.
For amateurs, know that there is a nudist area.
Grau-d' Agde :
Going down the Hérault to its mouth, you will find on its left bank the village of Grau-d' Agde , with its charm and authenticity.
Originally a simple fishing village consisting of a few huts. Many local shops are open all the time, as well as restaurants.
A small market is held on Thursdays, all year, and every day during the season on the village square.
In the summer, Le Grau is above all a family resort. But it is in spring and autumn that we will discover the charm of this village. Close to the beach, many streets, some buildings have flourished here and there, but we will find mostly small typical houses.
14 km of beautiful beaches:
The beaches of Rochelongue, Richelieu center, east and west, the Plagette, with their fine sand and an abundance of activities.
But also more intimate beaches, more quiet, such as the beach of Roquille, Grau or St Vincent, and even a volcanic sand beach, the Grande Conque, which extends at the foot of the cliffs, facing the Deux-Frères (large picturesque rocks facing each other) and the underwater trail.
Lake Salagou:
We retain this beautiful landscape of wild beauty and shimmering colors: the bright red of the earth, the clear blue of the sky, the deeper water, the incredible green shades of the surrounding nature ... Privileged destination of Herault, Lake Salagou offers a wide range of leisure activities and relaxation: lazing on the beach, discovery of nature, hiking, mountain biking, sports, horse riding, fishing ... At Salagou, there has something for everyone!
Vailhan :
At Pezenas flows a river called Peyne. Its level is most of the time very very low but sometimes it undergoes sometimes spectacular floods. To try to limit these risks a dam was built on the small town of Vailhan. This dam gave birth to a very pleasant lake nestled in lush greenery. From this lake where it is good to bask one has a beautiful view of the presbytery of the village, very pleasant to walk and have a picnic. Calm and serenity at the rendezvous!
Feel free to stroll through the streets of Vailhan, the charm of this tiny village lies in the gardens and their irrigation system. Behind the dry stone walls, the gardens follow each other, connected by channels and an ingenious system of hatches allows the inhabitants to water their garden without fatigue by opening or closing them.
Circus of Mourèze, a landscape with extraordinary shapes: Close to the lake of Salagou, near Clermont l' Hérault , surrounding the charming village of Mourèze, the exceptional natural site of the "circus of Mourèze" offers the spectacle of a forest rocks seeming to rise to the assault of the sky.
Béziers, cradle of the Canal du Midi: Make a stop at the edge of the Canal du Midi, classified World Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, and its remarkable 9 Ecluses Fonseranes, work of the Biterrois Pierre-Paul Riquet (1604-1680) ), the Canal du Midi, classified since 1996 as World Heritage of Humanity, connects the Garonne to the Thau lagoon. Its construction lasted 14 years, from 1667 to 1681, and 15,000 workers were employed on the huge construction site: 245 km long, 64 locks, 126 bridges including 7 canal bridges. Long important economic asset for the whole region, the Canal du Midi has lost its usefulness of yesteryear. But a new and prosperous booming activity is developing: river tourism.
The boat house welcomes you on the dock Port Neuf to inform you of the animations and advise you for the visit of the city and its treasures
The alleys Paul Riquet: They were called, originally, "La Passejada" (walk).
Between the Theater and the Plateau des Poètes, bordered by the Place Jean-Jaurès (Citadelle), they constitute the living heart of Béziers, the privileged artery of leisure, party and business. Often compared to the Ramblas of Barcelona, they host major events and every Friday, a lovely flower market.
Les Halles: More than a century and a half later, their complete renovation is undertaken and the new Halles are inaugurated in 1987. They are listed today in the supplementary inventory of Historic Monuments.
Opening of the halls to the public: every day (except Monday) from 7h to 13h30 on weekdays and until 15h on Sundays.
The bullring: The Arènes de Béziers, known as the Arènes de Plateau de Valras, was built in 1897. The important construction site, which employed 250 workers, was not yet finished when the first bullfight was given on July 11th of that year. . It was in 1905 that the work was completed.
The amphitheater offered 13,500 seats: the bullfighting art took flight from Béziers, which became, thanks to these arenas, one of the first bullfighting places in France. We have dubbed Beziers the "French Seville".
The Saint-Nazaire cathedral:
Episcopal seat since the year 760 and until the Revolution, it stands at the top of the Acropolis in a prestigious ensemble: 46-meter bell tower, episcopal palace, Garden of Bishops, cloister. Several buildings succeeded one another: pre-Romanesque church, Romanesque church of 1130 ruined by the Béziers sack of 1209 whose walls served as a base for the current Gothic cathedral built from the end of the 13th to the 15th century. The interior of a great revelation, contains frescoes of the fourteenth century, a buffet organ of the seventeenth century and the baroque ensemble of the choir of the eighteenth century. The vault of the sacristy is a masterpiece of Gothic art.
The Madeleine Church
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert - Abbey of Gellone
A jewel of Medieval Roman Art listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A stone vessel from the Middle Ages, the abbey of Gellone, one of the most beautiful abbeys of the Hérault , keeps the traces of an important historical and religious past.
Nestled in the village center of Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert, the abbey is the culmination of an exotic walk in the heart of one of the most beautiful villages in France with its exceptional landscape of ruiniform rocks or clinging scrubland and Mediterranean flora.
Saint Jean de Fos and Devil's Bridge: Located at the end of the Hérault gorges, between Saint-Jean-de-Fos and Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, the Devil's Bridge, with more than 1000 years of history, happens to be the oldest medieval bridge in France. Today this historic site also draws its fame from the beaches it overlooks and make it one of the most beautiful bathing sites in the Hérault .
Clamouse Cave: Clamouse Cave, a multi-million-year-old underground wonder, owes its fame to the diversity, abundance and rarity of its concretions, making it one of the most decorated caves in the world underground. Fine lace, stone flowers, draperies, bestiary ... The words struggle to translate the incredible beauty of these masterpieces of nature. An amazing universe that never ceases to surprise us. At the bend of a gallery awaits you a magic sound and light show in such a place: "the cathedral of time" or the revisited history of the drop of water and time.
Discovered in 1945, during a particularly dry summer, Clamouse's cave is still alive, being dug and perpetually transformed by an underground river fed by infiltrations of rain and snow. It owes its name to the Languedoc term "clamousa" (clamorous or screaming) in reference to the thundering noise of the underground river water during floods. Over 4 km of total length, more than 1km of galleries have been developed to allow the public to discover this buried treasure.
Abbaye de Valmagne: A splendid Cistercian ensemble, wonderfully well preserved, whose visit arouses admiration and serenity at the same time ... The atmosphere, imprinted with spirituality, brings us back to the Middle Ages, at the time when this high holy place knew its apogee . Today famous wine estate, The Abbey of Valmagne brings you back into the present, thanks to the tangible pleasure of tasting its wines.
Clermont's feudal castle L' Hérault :
This superb 12th century fortified wall, dominated by an imposing tower-tower, overlooks the city of Clermont l' Hérault and offers an exceptional panorama over the entire Hérault valley. It is the occasion of a pleasant stroll for the amateurs of historical sites and beautiful landscapes. Back in the past ...
The Manufacture Royale de Villeneuvette: and former "village factory", a cloth city created in 1670 by a rich cloth merchant of Clermont l' Hérault , was financially supported by Colbert who made it one of the largest Manufacture Royale of Occitanie .
Its built heritage, now overgrown with vegetation, has an authentic charm that testifies with discretion and mystery, a past where the activity was intense and life swarming.
Sète, Mount Saint Clair:
A striking view of Sète and the singular island. Dominating the sea from its height of 175 meters, Mount Saint Clair, an ancient volcano, gives its silhouette so particular to the city of Sète.
With on one side its splendid panorama on Sète, its canals and its port as well as on the Languedoc coast, with in backdrop the Canigou and the Pyrenees Orientales ... And on the other side the pond of Thau, its oyster beds and the Gardiole massif.
Mount St. Clair offers a unique point of view to discover and understand Sète (and its nickname of singular island), and admire the sea and the treasures of the Languedoc coast.
Cirque de Navacelles:
A spectacular panorama of a surprising creation of nature. Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Cirque de Navacelles is an ecological and geological marvel, sheltering an exceptional flora and fauna.
The circus and its 300-meter canyon dug by the Vis for millennia offers an impressive spectacle that bears witness to the powerful work of erosion of water in the heart of this limestone plateau. Two panoramas offer an exceptional view of the circus:
- the belvedere of Blandas, with its 3 different points of view arranged close to the vertiginous walls of the circus. On site, the Maison du Site offers a space presenting the circus of Navacelles and archaeological discoveries made in the circus and on the causse, a restaurant and a shop of regional products.
- the belvedere of the Baume Auriol. On site, the Maison du Grand Site of Cirque de Navacelles hosts the tourist office which offers to discover the site through walks, hikes and road circuits. A local produce shop will introduce visitors to regional specialties and a restaurant.
A marked hiking trail allows you to reach the mills from the circus of Navacelles (about 2h30 round trip).
Even in summer, the Vis is rarely dry and provides a pleasant freshness to visitors.
A legend speaks of a block of stone at the bottom of the river which would bear the inscription: "Quora me vieras, ploraras" (when you see me you will cry).
Montpellier (A75 Freeway):
- Garden plants. Located just minutes from the city center, near the promenade of Peyrou, the Faculty of Medicine and Saint Pierre Cathedral, the Jardin des Plantes is a very popular place of Montpellier. A haven of peace conducive to relaxation and strolling, this large quiet and shady park attracts every day many visitors wishing to walk, read, discuss under the trees or learn. Because with more than 2000 plant species and 420 years of history, the Jardin de Plantes, listed as a Historic Monument since 1992, represents one of the most beautiful historical, botanical and landscape heritage of Montpellier: a real treasure for lovers of flora and fauna. history.
- Zoo Lunaret (Free entry): Located north of Montpellier, cut off from the hustle and bustle of the city yet so close, Lunaret Zoo, with its 80 hectares of wooded area and the 90 animal species it includes, represents one of the favorite outings of the Montpellier.
At the whim of your strolls through garrigue paths and Mediterranean forest, discover the animals of the 5 continents! Lions, rhinoceros, facetious monkeys and nonchalant kangaroos will make the pleasures of the little ones and the "big kids"! It is also the ideal place for joggers in need of nature ...
- Le Peyrou: With its unique panorama and its terraced gardens decorated with fountains, the Peyrou Promenade is an esplanade where it is good to daydream, especially in summer in the shade of plane trees or in the evening to admire the sunset on the city.
It extends from the Arc de Triomphe to the Esplanade des Arceaux crowned by its monumental aqueduct Saint-Clément.
A nice walk to get high ...
St. Peter's Cathedral. A fortress in the heart of Montpellier. In the heart of old Montpellier and its old medieval streets stands St. Peter's Cathedral (1536) and its majestic porch. Very nice walk in the heart of the escutcheon, close to the Peyrou place and the garden of plants, we can admire the imposing Gothic silhouette of the cathedral from the beautiful viewpoint that offers the place of the Canourgue who the dominates, and from which it was fired upon him during the wars of religion. On Saturdays, the cathedral is regularly the theater of organ concerts, often free.
- Méjean protected natural site: A few kilometers away from Montpellier's hustle and bustle lies the Méjean nature reserve, a surprisingly well-preserved island of nature, rich in fauna and flora typical of the coastal wetlands. ... To discover with family to observe the birds!
- The Pic Saint Loup: Mountain emblematic of the hinterland of Montpellier, the peak which rises to 658 m of altitude offers a breathtaking panorama on the Cevennes, the plain and the sea. Its particular shape, a large round hill seen from the south, hides north side a vertiginous cliff. At the top of the peak is the chapel of St. Joseph which is mentioned in 1662 and the hermitage which served as a shelter for hermits who came to watch the sanctuary. A pilgrimage was organized every March 19 to the summit of the Peak where stands a metal cross about 10 meters high, which was installed in 1911 to replace the old wooden cross.
The cottages are located at 1:00 from SPAIN and PYRENNEES.
In Occitanie , between the emerald green colors of the Thau pond for a shell tasting (Meze, Sète, Bouzigues ..) and the turquoise blue of our beautiful Mediterranean beaches (Marseillan, Cap d' Agde , Valras, Sète, Vias. .); Between the clayey reds around Lake Salagou, limestone whites of the historic town of Pezenas with its stalls "Mirondella del Arts" and the slate gray of the beautiful village of St Guilhem le Desert.
PEZENAS:
Pezenas is a city of Art and History with a beautiful heritage: many mansions of the sixteenth, seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, such as the hotel de Lacoste, the hotel Malibran or the hotel d 'Alfonce succeed each other. And pretty paved streets lined with craft stalls lend themselves to strolling. Pezenas also has the particularity of having been in the 17th century the place of stay of Molière.
The Maison des Métiers d'Art, located in the former consular house, is dedicated to know-how and crafts.
In early June, " Pezenas Under the Eye of Molière" is a party during which the old town is animated by street performances.
Pezenas is a small town of about 9,000 inhabitants, located between Béziers and Montpellier, 20 minutes from the Mediterranean in Hérault Sea. Its pedestrian historical center, well saved, and its picturesque streets make it a must-visit place in the Hérault . You will find there year-round craftsmen, antique dealers, festivals and animations.
Near the vineyards, it is also a starting point to discover the Languedoc wines: terroir of Pezenas , Picpoul de Pinet, Faugères and Vin de pays.
Specialties: berlingots de Pezenas , artisanal pâtés of Pezenas . Many restaurants, snacks, ice cream parlors, bakeries, pastries in the city center.
Every Saturday morning: Cours Jean Jaurès Market from 9am to 6pm.
Molière Festival in all its Shards in June. Theater, cinema, concert, festival and show for all ages for all tastes!
Every Wednesday of July-August, the cellars Molière: evenings music, food and wine from 19:30; 39 avenue de Verdun.
Every Friday evening of July-August, the summer: wine tasting of the region of Pezenas ( Occitanie ); Jean Jaurès course.
Municipal swimming pool in summer season.
Etang de Thau:
Thau pond is the largest pond in Occitanie (19 km long, 5 km wide). It is a major attraction for the inhabitants of its shores as well as for visitors. This natural resource gave birth to a series of artisanal activities: mussel farming and oyster farming. These cultures are facilitated by the diversity and abundance of phytoplankton that these molluscs feed on. This abundance is due to moderately deep, warm waters and the slow movement of these waters.
Thau is a true small inland sea that is home to exceptional biological diversity. Shellfish aquaculture is practiced by means of breeding tables owned by the owners. They are formed of metal piles planted in the bottom of the pond. These stakes support planks either iron or wood and these planks receive poles placed transversely to which are suspended every 50 cm ropes carrying oysters or mussels.
Marseillan:
Between sea and lagoon of Thau, there is a haven of peace which by its authenticity and its differences makes it unavoidable.
His name ? Marseillan! Crazy charm of a port with a rich historical past, world heritage with the Canal du Midi, protected areas, paradise of an exceptional flora and fauna, long sandy beaches, Marseillan is also a high place of the culture of the oyster and wonderful wines.
A former port with successive vocations, its main activity was first fishing, then, at the beginning of the century, the wine trade made its fortune. Today, its port, widely appreciated by boaters, is the ultimate stopover of the Canal du Midi; it is indeed in Marseillan that the work of Pierre-Paul Riquet, classified in the world inheritance of Unesco, finishes peacefully its course in the Lagoon of Thau with "the tip of the Onglous". Throughout the streets, Marseillan reveals its covered square in the Venetian frame of the seventeenth century, its statue of the Republic listed in the inventory of historical monuments ... Listen to its stones tell you the history of Languedoc ... Let yourself be enchanted by its tasty products from the terroir: oysters, wines ... and do not miss the visit of the Noilly Prat cellars ... The aperitif of connoisseurs and great chefs!
Discover the unique panoramas of Natura 2000 natural areas! Here, the landscape is wild: flamingos, herons, egrets, hundreds of birds camp on the banks of the reserve Bagnas. The fauna and flora charm with their richness ...
Athletes are not left out since the lagoon and the sea offer a privileged space for the practice of a multitude of activities: sailing, kitesurfing, water ski, electric boat ride, water skiing, rowing, rowing, fishing ...
To live intensely your holidays in Marseillan is to fully enjoy the privileges of a long sandy beach, hot and golden where children frolic safely.
Marseillan is finally Receive and Share! The town is attracted by its wide range of activities and entertainment throughout the seasons: typical markets, night craft market, traditional festivals where jousting tournaments and races to the bigue without forgetting the major events events: Fête St. Peter's Day, local festival, oyster festival, beach party, holiday party and other festive musical events (Latin nights ...)
Decidedly, in Marseillan, the world really offers itself to you!
AGDE:
You can admire the old historic center of Agde where a guided tour will be offered. His cooler, his museum ...
Lovers of water, discover the aquatic center Archipel The City of Water, with its pool, spa, hot tubs.
Bike paths will allow you to ride safely
Cap d'Agde is a Mediterranean destination par excellence with 14 km of beach and 300 days of sunshine.
It is also a destination of traditions that is full of treasures such as the fort of Brescou or the Saint-Etienne cathedral built in volcanic stone.
National Nature Reserve of Bagnas, Mont Saint-Loup, walks in the heart of the vineyards or along the Canal du Midi ... It's all the territory of Cap d' Agde which is extraordinary! Cape Agde :
In Cap-d' Agde , you will discover the famous tourist city, but also the elegant marina.
In the evening, you can stroll on the ports where restaurants, cafes, bars and cabarets follow one another.
The Ile des Loisirs, facing the port, is full of games and rides, and also offers casino and disco.
For amateurs, know that there is a nudist area.
Grau-d' Agde :
Going down the Hérault to its mouth, you will find on its left bank the village of Grau-d' Agde , with its charm and authenticity.
Originally a simple fishing village consisting of a few huts. Many local shops are open all the time, as well as restaurants.
A small market is held on Thursdays, all year, and every day during the season on the village square.
In the summer, Le Grau is above all a family resort. But it is in spring and autumn that we will discover the charm of this village. Close to the beach, many streets, some buildings have flourished here and there, but we will find mostly small typical houses.
14 km of beautiful beaches:
The beaches of Rochelongue, Richelieu center, east and west, the Plagette, with their fine sand and an abundance of activities.
But also more intimate beaches, more quiet, such as the beach of Roquille, Grau or St Vincent, and even a volcanic sand beach, the Grande Conque, which extends at the foot of the cliffs, facing the Deux-Frères (large picturesque rocks facing each other) and the underwater trail.
Lake Salagou:
We retain this beautiful landscape of wild beauty and shimmering colors: the bright red of the earth, the clear blue of the sky, the deeper water, the incredible green shades of the surrounding nature ... Privileged destination of Herault, Lake Salagou offers a wide range of leisure activities and relaxation: lazing on the beach, discovery of nature, hiking, mountain biking, sports, horse riding, fishing ... At Salagou, there has something for everyone!
Vailhan :
At Pezenas flows a river called Peyne. Its level is most of the time very very low but sometimes it undergoes sometimes spectacular floods. To try to limit these risks a dam was built on the small town of Vailhan. This dam gave birth to a very pleasant lake nestled in lush greenery. From this lake where it is good to bask one has a beautiful view of the presbytery of the village, very pleasant to walk and have a picnic. Calm and serenity at the rendezvous!
Feel free to stroll through the streets of Vailhan, the charm of this tiny village lies in the gardens and their irrigation system. Behind the dry stone walls, the gardens follow each other, connected by channels and an ingenious system of hatches allows the inhabitants to water their garden without fatigue by opening or closing them.
Circus of Mourèze, a landscape with extraordinary shapes: Close to the lake of Salagou, near Clermont l' Hérault , surrounding the charming village of Mourèze, the exceptional natural site of the "circus of Mourèze" offers the spectacle of a forest rocks seeming to rise to the assault of the sky.
Béziers, cradle of the Canal du Midi: Make a stop at the edge of the Canal du Midi, classified World Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, and its remarkable 9 Ecluses Fonseranes, work of the Biterrois Pierre-Paul Riquet (1604-1680) ), the Canal du Midi, classified since 1996 as World Heritage of Humanity, connects the Garonne to the Thau lagoon. Its construction lasted 14 years, from 1667 to 1681, and 15,000 workers were employed on the huge construction site: 245 km long, 64 locks, 126 bridges including 7 canal bridges. Long important economic asset for the whole region, the Canal du Midi has lost its usefulness of yesteryear. But a new and prosperous booming activity is developing: river tourism.
The boat house welcomes you on the dock Port Neuf to inform you of the animations and advise you for the visit of the city and its treasures
The alleys Paul Riquet: They were called, originally, "La Passejada" (walk).
Between the Theater and the Plateau des Poètes, bordered by the Place Jean-Jaurès (Citadelle), they constitute the living heart of Béziers, the privileged artery of leisure, party and business. Often compared to the Ramblas of Barcelona, they host major events and every Friday, a lovely flower market.
Les Halles: More than a century and a half later, their complete renovation is undertaken and the new Halles are inaugurated in 1987. They are listed today in the supplementary inventory of Historic Monuments.
Opening of the halls to the public: every day (except Monday) from 7h to 13h30 on weekdays and until 15h on Sundays.
The bullring: The Arènes de Béziers, known as the Arènes de Plateau de Valras, was built in 1897. The important construction site, which employed 250 workers, was not yet finished when the first bullfight was given on July 11th of that year. . It was in 1905 that the work was completed.
The amphitheater offered 13,500 seats: the bullfighting art took flight from Béziers, which became, thanks to these arenas, one of the first bullfighting places in France. We have dubbed Beziers the "French Seville".
The Saint-Nazaire cathedral:
Episcopal seat since the year 760 and until the Revolution, it stands at the top of the Acropolis in a prestigious ensemble: 46-meter bell tower, episcopal palace, Garden of Bishops, cloister. Several buildings succeeded one another: pre-Romanesque church, Romanesque church of 1130 ruined by the Béziers sack of 1209 whose walls served as a base for the current Gothic cathedral built from the end of the 13th to the 15th century. The interior of a great revelation, contains frescoes of the fourteenth century, a buffet organ of the seventeenth century and the baroque ensemble of the choir of the eighteenth century. The vault of the sacristy is a masterpiece of Gothic art.
The Madeleine Church
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert - Abbey of Gellone
A jewel of Medieval Roman Art listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A stone vessel from the Middle Ages, the abbey of Gellone, one of the most beautiful abbeys of the Hérault , keeps the traces of an important historical and religious past.
Nestled in the village center of Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert, the abbey is the culmination of an exotic walk in the heart of one of the most beautiful villages in France with its exceptional landscape of ruiniform rocks or clinging scrubland and Mediterranean flora.
Saint Jean de Fos and Devil's Bridge: Located at the end of the Hérault gorges, between Saint-Jean-de-Fos and Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, the Devil's Bridge, with more than 1000 years of history, happens to be the oldest medieval bridge in France. Today this historic site also draws its fame from the beaches it overlooks and make it one of the most beautiful bathing sites in the Hérault .
Clamouse Cave: Clamouse Cave, a multi-million-year-old underground wonder, owes its fame to the diversity, abundance and rarity of its concretions, making it one of the most decorated caves in the world underground. Fine lace, stone flowers, draperies, bestiary ... The words struggle to translate the incredible beauty of these masterpieces of nature. An amazing universe that never ceases to surprise us. At the bend of a gallery awaits you a magic sound and light show in such a place: "the cathedral of time" or the revisited history of the drop of water and time.
Discovered in 1945, during a particularly dry summer, Clamouse's cave is still alive, being dug and perpetually transformed by an underground river fed by infiltrations of rain and snow. It owes its name to the Languedoc term "clamousa" (clamorous or screaming) in reference to the thundering noise of the underground river water during floods. Over 4 km of total length, more than 1km of galleries have been developed to allow the public to discover this buried treasure.
Abbaye de Valmagne: A splendid Cistercian ensemble, wonderfully well preserved, whose visit arouses admiration and serenity at the same time ... The atmosphere, imprinted with spirituality, brings us back to the Middle Ages, at the time when this high holy place knew its apogee . Today famous wine estate, The Abbey of Valmagne brings you back into the present, thanks to the tangible pleasure of tasting its wines.
Clermont's feudal castle L' Hérault :
This superb 12th century fortified wall, dominated by an imposing tower-tower, overlooks the city of Clermont l' Hérault and offers an exceptional panorama over the entire Hérault valley. It is the occasion of a pleasant stroll for the amateurs of historical sites and beautiful landscapes. Back in the past ...
The Manufacture Royale de Villeneuvette: and former "village factory", a cloth city created in 1670 by a rich cloth merchant of Clermont l' Hérault , was financially supported by Colbert who made it one of the largest Manufacture Royale of Occitanie .
Its built heritage, now overgrown with vegetation, has an authentic charm that testifies with discretion and mystery, a past where the activity was intense and life swarming.
Sète, Mount Saint Clair:
A striking view of Sète and the singular island. Dominating the sea from its height of 175 meters, Mount Saint Clair, an ancient volcano, gives its silhouette so particular to the city of Sète.
With on one side its splendid panorama on Sète, its canals and its port as well as on the Languedoc coast, with in backdrop the Canigou and the Pyrenees Orientales ... And on the other side the pond of Thau, its oyster beds and the Gardiole massif.
Mount St. Clair offers a unique point of view to discover and understand Sète (and its nickname of singular island), and admire the sea and the treasures of the Languedoc coast.
Cirque de Navacelles:
A spectacular panorama of a surprising creation of nature. Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Cirque de Navacelles is an ecological and geological marvel, sheltering an exceptional flora and fauna.
The circus and its 300-meter canyon dug by the Vis for millennia offers an impressive spectacle that bears witness to the powerful work of erosion of water in the heart of this limestone plateau. Two panoramas offer an exceptional view of the circus:
- the belvedere of Blandas, with its 3 different points of view arranged close to the vertiginous walls of the circus. On site, the Maison du Site offers a space presenting the circus of Navacelles and archaeological discoveries made in the circus and on the causse, a restaurant and a shop of regional products.
- the belvedere of the Baume Auriol. On site, the Maison du Grand Site of Cirque de Navacelles hosts the tourist office which offers to discover the site through walks, hikes and road circuits. A local produce shop will introduce visitors to regional specialties and a restaurant.
A marked hiking trail allows you to reach the mills from the circus of Navacelles (about 2h30 round trip).
Even in summer, the Vis is rarely dry and provides a pleasant freshness to visitors.
A legend speaks of a block of stone at the bottom of the river which would bear the inscription: "Quora me vieras, ploraras" (when you see me you will cry).
Montpellier (A75 Freeway):
- Garden plants. Located just minutes from the city center, near the promenade of Peyrou, the Faculty of Medicine and Saint Pierre Cathedral, the Jardin des Plantes is a very popular place of Montpellier. A haven of peace conducive to relaxation and strolling, this large quiet and shady park attracts every day many visitors wishing to walk, read, discuss under the trees or learn. Because with more than 2000 plant species and 420 years of history, the Jardin de Plantes, listed as a Historic Monument since 1992, represents one of the most beautiful historical, botanical and landscape heritage of Montpellier: a real treasure for lovers of flora and fauna. history.
- Zoo Lunaret (Free entry): Located north of Montpellier, cut off from the hustle and bustle of the city yet so close, Lunaret Zoo, with its 80 hectares of wooded area and the 90 animal species it includes, represents one of the favorite outings of the Montpellier.
At the whim of your strolls through garrigue paths and Mediterranean forest, discover the animals of the 5 continents! Lions, rhinoceros, facetious monkeys and nonchalant kangaroos will make the pleasures of the little ones and the "big kids"! It is also the ideal place for joggers in need of nature ...
- Le Peyrou: With its unique panorama and its terraced gardens decorated with fountains, the Peyrou Promenade is an esplanade where it is good to daydream, especially in summer in the shade of plane trees or in the evening to admire the sunset on the city.
It extends from the Arc de Triomphe to the Esplanade des Arceaux crowned by its monumental aqueduct Saint-Clément.
A nice walk to get high ...
St. Peter's Cathedral. A fortress in the heart of Montpellier. In the heart of old Montpellier and its old medieval streets stands St. Peter's Cathedral (1536) and its majestic porch. Very nice walk in the heart of the escutcheon, close to the Peyrou place and the garden of plants, we can admire the imposing Gothic silhouette of the cathedral from the beautiful viewpoint that offers the place of the Canourgue who the dominates, and from which it was fired upon him during the wars of religion. On Saturdays, the cathedral is regularly the theater of organ concerts, often free.
- Méjean protected natural site: A few kilometers away from Montpellier's hustle and bustle lies the Méjean nature reserve, a surprisingly well-preserved island of nature, rich in fauna and flora typical of the coastal wetlands. ... To discover with family to observe the birds!
- The Pic Saint Loup: Mountain emblematic of the hinterland of Montpellier, the peak which rises to 658 m of altitude offers a breathtaking panorama on the Cevennes, the plain and the sea. Its particular shape, a large round hill seen from the south, hides north side a vertiginous cliff. At the top of the peak is the chapel of St. Joseph which is mentioned in 1662 and the hermitage which served as a shelter for hermits who came to watch the sanctuary. A pilgrimage was organized every March 19 to the summit of the Peak where stands a metal cross about 10 meters high, which was installed in 1911 to replace the old wooden cross.
The cottages are located at 1:00 from SPAIN and PYRENNEES.
