Navacelles waterfall : a natural paradise in the Occitanie region

The origins of the Navacelles waterfall

To better understand the origins of this waterfall, we must go back to the source, in the Cevennes National Park at Mont Guiral. The peak of Guiral is a place of pilgrimage which culminates at 1366m of altitude. It is the starting point of the river, known as La Vis.

This river, the Vis, then flows to the pretty village of Vissec, then slides underground to emerge at the surprising Moulins de la Foux. The water gushes out of the ground with an invigorating ardor that can reach several meters high, an ideal place if you are looking for freshness this summer.

A little further on, the river has shaped a natural and spectacular cirque, today integrated into the network of the Great Sites of France and classified as a world heritage site by UNESCO.

The cirque of Navacelles is considered as one of the biggest canyons in Europe, plunging to a depth of more than 300 meters. A real jewel of nature which shelters a medieval village of 19 inhabitants as well as the rock of the Virgin, making the pride of the whole region.

And to come back to our waterfall, this one appeared nearly 6000 years ago, instead of going around the famous rock, Mother Nature decided to go straight ahead offering a heavenly bathing place!

How to get to Navacelles waterfall?

So how to get there? From the heights of the cirque, you have to take a steep path that can be scary at first sight but remains easily accessible, even for people with reduced mobility. You can get there by car, by free shuttle (in season) and even by foot or by bike for the more athletic. There is a parking right next to the waterfall and the hamlet of 19 inhabitants.

To contemplate the beauty of this spectacle, we invite you to go down to the hamlet, the place is ideal for a picnic. Another option is to go up to the Belvédères de Blandas on the Gard side.
You'll be able to see a lot, as long as you don't have vertigo.
Be careful not to confuse the Vis waterfall at Saint Laurent le Minier with that at Navacelles, even though it's on the same river. Both are magnificent, however.

How do I get to Navacelles without a car?

If you don't have a car, the only solution is to hire one or find an excursion to take you there. If you're staying in Montpellier, a great way is to book a day trip from Montpellier. These day trips are usually scheduled on Tuesdays throughout the year.
Travel in comfort with our licensed transport and air-conditioned van, making the journey from Montpellier relaxing.
Our local guide David knows the best photo spots and the history of the Navacelles canyon – saving you hours of searching.

Can we swim in Navacelles waterfall ?

Swimming at the Navacelles Waterfall is permitted at your own risk, and special care should be taken with children. It is a peaceful and fascinating place all year round. In summer, it gets a bit busier; the waterfalls form natural pools that are very popular with swimmers.
A little corner of paradise in a secluded spot surrounded by nature that will leave you speechless.
Note that as the river flows 12 miles underground, the water is quite cool. The ideal spot in the south of France for all lovers of nature and tranquility.

When is the best time to discover this heavenly waterfall ?

The best time to swim is between June and September. To avoid the tourist influx and to fully enjoy the waterfalls, prefer weekdays and outside the school period. Otherwise, we recommend you to go there very early in the morning to bathe quietly and admire the beautiful landscapes.
As far as walks and visits are concerned, autumn and spring are the best times of year, with less heat and nature all to yourself!

What to do near the waterfall of Navacelles ?

In addition to swimming, here is a list of activities to do around Navacelles waterfall :

• Hiking: one of the best options to visit the cirque and enjoy the most beautiful views. With GR and PR trails, the region has a great network of hikes. The paths are marked and well maintained, so it is impossible to get lost


• Horseback riding or donkey rides: walking along the paths of Larzac on horseback or on donkey is an original activity that will please both young and old people. Take your time and enjoy the contact with the animal, while observing the most beautiful natural wonders.


• Discovering by bike or mountain bike: cycling is an outdoor activity, which combines both conviviality and effort. By practicing cycling, discover at your own pace the varied and charming landscapes of the area. For those who wish to enjoy the landscape without difficulty, there is also an alternative with electric bike.


• Canyoning: an ideal sport for those in search of the ultimate thrill. On the program: abseiling, diving in waterfalls, swimming in rivers, climbing cliffs, etc. A guaranteed day full of emotions that will make you discover the region as you have never seen it before.


• NO KILL fishing: if you are a fishing enthusiast, this is the activity for you. Known to release stress and promote relaxation, this is a good reason to choose this activity. Please note, however, that only no-kill fishing is allowed. This method is more respectful of the environment and consists in releasing the fish in its natural habitat after having caught it.