The most beautiful castles to visit - Herault
Whether you love nature, wine or history, the Hérault castles are full of beautiful surprises that will satisfy all your desires. In this article we invite you to discover our favorite Hérault castles. Explore medieval castles during a hike, taste wines produced at the foot of a castle, combine old villages and castles or admire the castles of Montpellier, the choice is yours!
The medieval castles of the Herault region accessible by hiking
The castle of Vivioures, a family hike
The Château de Vivioures is a captivating testimony of medieval history and architecture. This fortified castle is a remarkable representation of the feudal architecture of the time. The first known mention of the castle dates from the 12th century under the name of Château de la Roquette, when it belonged to the Count of Melgueil. It once served as a stronghold but also as a dwelling.
Perched on the Causse de l'Hortus, you can reach this castle in around 1 hour of hiking. Once there, you will be able to observe a magnificent panorama, in particular on the Pic Saint Loup which stands just in front of the castle.
Moreover, it is possible to observe this castle from the Pic Saint Loup which offers a magnificent view of the Hérault region. Do not hesitate to climb this emblematic summit to discover the castle of Vivioures from a new angle. You can also admire the castle of Vivioures from the castle of Montferrand!
The castle of Montferrand, a breathtaking view of the Pic Saint Loup
The Château de Montferrand is one of the most beautiful castles in Herault. This imposing structure dating from the Middle Ages was built in the 13th century and is a feudal fortress classified as a historical monument.
Montferrand Castle has a rich and fascinating history. Over the centuries it was used as a stately residence, then as a prison during the French Revolution. It was also the seat of an important county and a vast seigneury.
The Château de Montferrand is also one of the striking elements of the landscape because some walls rise up to 10 or 15 meters in height. This castle is an emblem of the region and is now the subject of a major rehabilitation project. Indeed, under the rubble many elements such as the vaulted rooms at the base of the buildings are very well preserved.
In addition, the castle of Montferrand is very popular with hikers. Indeed, this ascent in the garrigue is the favorite walk for lovers of nature and history. You will therefore need about 1h30 of walking to reach this monument located at the eastern end of the Pic Saint-Loup ridge. Once you arrive, you will not be disappointed by the view from the castle which is a marvel to behold: it offers a panoramic view of the mountains and the surrounding nature.
The giant's castle, an unmissable vestige above Saint Guilhem
The Château du Géant is one of the most beautiful monuments in the town of Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert. This fortified castle is located on the heights of the city and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains.
The Giant's Castle was built in the 11th century and was originally used as a fortress to protect the inhabitants against enemy invasions. it is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the pretty valleys of the Hérault.
You can set off to discover this monument by taking a fairly easy 2.9 km round trip hike starting from Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert. This route is very popular for walks and hikes, so you will certainly come across people on your way. Nevertheless, the experience is worth the detour, whatever the season.
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a small historic town located in the south of France. This town is known for its medieval architecture, pretty cobbled streets and peaceful atmosphere. The Château du Géant is one of the city's most important landmarks and is a great place to explore the region's history and culture.
The castle of Aumelas, a peaceful walk in garrigue
Located in the small town of Aumelas, the Château d'Aumelas is a historic monument that attracts many visitors. This former fortified castle, built in the 12th century, offers a fascinating insight into life in medieval times.
To get to this castle, you just need to do a simple hike of about 1 hour round trip. Although this place is famous for walks and running, you can still enjoy moments of tranquility.
Besides the castle itself, the town of Aumelas itself is also worth a visit. With its pretty cobbled streets, medieval architecture and peaceful atmosphere, Aumelas is an ideal place to relax and explore the local culture. The Château d'Aumelas is also located in an enchanting natural setting, surrounded by green valleys, with a magnificent surrounding nature, which invites you to take a walk.
The Château de Montpeyroux, a historical gem
Built in the 13th century on a hill, the Château de Montpeyroux overlooks the surrounding mountains and offers a breathtaking panorama. The stone walls, the cylindrical towers, the loopholes and the battlements testify to the strategy deployed to protect this castle over the years.
The Château de Montpeyroux is not a ruined castle, but rather an imposing fortified medieval monument. Currently under renovation, it is not possible to visit this superb site, however, do not hesitate to take a walk on the ramparts to enjoy the panorama and admire the imposing appearance of the fortress.
Montpeyroux is a city that exudes authenticity with its cobbled streets and medieval architecture. The Château de Montpeyroux is the undisputed jewel, a place where history and culture meet to offer a unique experience.
If you are looking to escape everyday life and immerse yourself in a medieval world, the Château de Montpeyroux is an essential destination. It invites you to discover the history of the region and live an unforgettable experience. So, prepare your backpack and set off to discover this medieval vestige.
Herault castles ideal for wine tasting
The Chateau de l'Engarran, classical architecture
Château de l'Engarran is an imposing 17th century mansion located about 10 kilometers from the city of Montpellier and is surrounded by a beautiful landscaped park.
Built in the 17th century, this castle is a perfect example of classical French architecture of this period. It is also considered a historical monument due to its architectural, historical and cultural interest.
The Château de l'Engarran was built for the Comte de l'Engarran, who was an important figure at the time. It was designed to be a place of rest and relaxation for the Earl and his family, with extensive gardens, a lake and hunting grounds.
Today the castle is still in very good condition and is open to the public for guided tours. Visitors can explore the wealth of art and antique collections, as well as the beautiful gardens and lake. It is also possible to rent the castle for private events, such as weddings or receptions.
There are several visits at different prices (between 10 and 25 euros), including wine tasting and discovery of the castle. These are offered for children under 15 accompanied by an adult. Also, it is possible to visit the wine museum for free.
Château de Jonquières, between vineyards and bed and breakfast
Château de Jonquières is a fortified castle that was built in the 15th century and is located about 20 km north of Béziers.
Historically, the remains of a building on the site of the Château de Jonquières date from the 12th century. It seems that this castle, mentioned as early as 1323, was originally a simple rural fortification. It was only between 1656 and 1666 that the castle was rebuilt in its present form.
The Château de Jonquières is now open to the public for historic guided tours. Through these tours, it is possible to discover the history of the château, its grounds and its architecture. It is also possible to taste wines at the end of the visit. It is possible to visit the castle for free with a map given at the entrance or with a guide from 30 euros.
The Chateau de Jonquières is also home to magnificent guest rooms where you can stay in the middle of an enchanting setting.
Also take advantage of your visit to the Chateau de Jonquières to give yourself a weekend in the heart of the Herault to better discover the region.
The Chateau du Larzac, an extensive vineyard
Located in Pézenas, the Château de Larzac is installed on an earlier site which dates back to the arrival of the Etruscans in Languedoc around 700 BC Inspired by Tuscan architecture, it was rebuilt at the beginning of the 17th century by Governor of Languedoc and Intendant of the Princes of Montmorency.
The Chateau de Larzac also has a vineyard of 62 hectares. This estate is made up of a wide variety of plans and is therefore the origin of the production of various wines.
Also take advantage of your visit to the Larzac estate to visit the authentic village of Pézenas. This village full of history will charm you with its picturesque alleys and its stone houses.
Chateaux in the heart of pretty Herault villages
The castle of the archbishops of Capestang, a place steeped in history
The castle was built by the archbishops of Narbonne as lords of the place, a story dating from an unknown time. It is credited with having been built by Pierre de la Jugie, Archbishop of Narbonne from 1347 to 1375.
The visit to the castle of the archbishops of Capestang lasts approximately 1 hour and is available on request. It will take 2 euros for the free visit, 4 euros for the guided visit and 8 euros for the visit of the castle and the collegiate church.
Please note that these visits are accessible to people with disabilities.
The Chateau de Baulx, a medieval fortress
The Château de Baulx is located in Saint Jean de Buèges. Over time, this castle has undergone an evolution. Initially, it was just a simple watchtower, but with the addition of a defensive wall, it became a small castle. Eventually, at the beginning of the 17th century and the beginning of the 18th century, it was transformed into a dwelling.
Every summer, the castle is open for guided tours on Sunday evenings. The guides are knowledgeable about the history of the castle and the tours are split into two parts: a tour of the buildings and a tour of the garden. The cost of the visit is €5 for adults and free for children under 12. If you wish to visit the castle outside opening hours, you can contact the Compagnons de Tras Castel.
Moreover, the village of Saint-Jean-de-Bueges is a very pretty picturesque village which is worth the detour. But it is also a superb climbing spot for thrill seekers.
The castle of Margon, between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance
The Château de Margon is a fortified building dating from the Middle Ages which was renovated during the Renaissance to become an elegant residence. The medieval structure was embellished with flamboyant Gothic decor, including large mullioned windows adorned with fantastical motifs, swallow-nest shaped turrets and small crenellated parapets. The absence of machicolations on the walkways indicates that these were more intended to maintain a military aspect attributed to earlier periods than to a real close defence.
The price of the visit of the castle of Margon is 7 euros and free for children under 12.
Castles in Montpellier city
The Chateau de la Mogère, a reflection of Montpellier's history
The Domaine de la Mogère was purchased in 1706 by Fulcran Limozin, King's Secretary and Comptroller of the Chancellery of Montpellier. It remains in the hands of its family and is transmitted directly from generation to generation. Designed by architect Jean Giral in 1715, it features an elegant façade with a pediment against the backdrop of a pine forest. La Mogère offers insight into the history of Montpellier and one of its most influential families, the Boussairolles.
You can visit the gardens as well as the interior of the castle for 10 euros and for 5 euros you can have access to the gardens only. The price of the visit of the interior of the castle and the gardens for 12-18 year olds is 5 euros and is free for children under 12 years old.
After visiting this superb castle, you can take the opportunity to enhance your stay in Montpellier with a few excursions outside the city, the Hérault flora and fauna are really worth the detour!
The Chateau de Flaugergues, a famous Montpellier folly
Built at the end of the 17th century, Flaugergues is one of the "follies" built by the Montpellier aristocracy to be their summer residence.
Acquired by Etienne de Flaugergues in 1696, he enlarged and embellished it to make it a "country house" which became a model for other "follies" in the region. In 1811, it became one of the pleasure residences of Boussairolles. Today, it bears witness to the way of life of the Montpellier notables of the time.
Several visits and activities are possible at chateau de Flaugergues ranging from 8 to 90 euros.
The Herault region is bursting with unsuspected treasures, so if you have to choose from the most beautiful chateaux to visit in the Herault, it's not an easy task. As far as we're concerned, each one is more beautiful than the next. They're all part of
Gaëlle VAN HUMBEECK
