The most beautiful castles to visit - Herault

Whether you are a lover of nature, wine, or history, the castles of Hérault 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 fortresses during a hike, taste wines produced at the foot of a castle, combine old villages and estates, or admire the famous Montpellier "folies"—the choice is yours!

Medieval Castles in Hérault: Best Hiking Destinations

Vivioures Castle: A Family Hike Near Pic Saint-Loup

The Château de Vivioures is a captivating testimony to 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 back to the 12th century under the name of Château de la Roquette; it then belonged to the Count of Melgueil. It once served as a stronghold but also as a residence.

Perched on the Causse de l'Hortus, you can reach this castle in about a 1-hour hike. Once you arrive, you will be able to observe a magnificent panorama, notably of the Pic Saint Loup which stands right in front of the castle.

Furthermore, it is possible to observe this castle from the Pic Saint Loup, which offers a magnificent view of the Hérault region. Don't hesitate to climb this iconic summit to discover the Vivioures Castle from a new angle. You can also admire Vivioures Castle from Montferrand Castle!

Montferrand Castle: Stunning Views of Pic Saint-Loup

Montferrand Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Hérault. 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 lordly residence, then as a prison during the French Revolution. It was also the seat of an important county and a vast seigneury.

The castle of Montferrand represents one of the striking elements of the landscape as some walls rise up to 10 or 15 meters high. This castle is an emblem of the region and is currently 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.

Furthermore, Montferrand Castle is very popular with hikers. This ascent into the garrigue is the favorite walk for lovers of nature and history. It will take you about 1.5 hours 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 wonder to see: it offers a panoramic view of the mountains and the surrounding nature.

The Giant's Castle: A Must-See Above Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert

The Château du Géant (Giant's Castle) is one of the most beautiful historical monuments in the town of Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert. This fortified castle is located on the heights of the town and offers an unbeatable view of the surrounding mountains.

The Giant's Castle was built in the 11th century and was originally used as a fortress to protect residents against enemy invasions. It is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the pretty valleys of Hérault.

You can 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 meet people on your way. Nevertheless, the experience is worth the detour, in any season.

Saint Guilhem le Désert is a small historical village located in the south of France. This village is known for its medieval architecture, its pretty paved streets, and its peaceful atmosphere. The Giant's Castle is one of the most important monuments in the town and is an ideal place to explore the history and culture of the region.

Aumelas Castle: A Peaceful Walk Through the Garrigue

Located in the small town of Aumelas, Aumelas Castle is a historical monument that attracts many visitors. This old fortified castle, built in the 12th century, offers a fascinating glimpse into life in medieval times.

To get to this castle, you just need to go on a simple hike of about 1 hour round-trip. Although this place is renowned for walks and running, you can still enjoy moments of tranquility.

Besides the castle itself, the town of Aumelas is also worth the detour. With its pretty paved streets, medieval architecture, and peaceful atmosphere, Aumelas is an ideal place to relax and explore the local culture. Aumelas Castle is also located in an enchanting natural setting, surrounded by green valleys, with magnificent surrounding nature that invites you to take a stroll.

Montpeyroux Castle: A Historic Hidden 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, cylindrical towers, loopholes, and battlements bear witness to the strategy deployed to protect this castle over the years.

Montpeyroux Castle is not a ruined castle, but rather an imposing fortified medieval monument. Currently under renovation, it is not possible to visit the inside of this superb site; however, do not hesitate to walk along the ramparts to enjoy the panorama and admire the imposing appearance of the fortress.

Montpeyroux is a town that breathes authenticity with its paved streets and medieval architecture. Montpeyroux Castle is its 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, Montpeyroux Castle is a must-see destination. It invites you to discover the history of the region and live an unforgettable experience. So, pack your backpack and go discover this medieval vestige.

Wine Tourism: Hérault Castles, Vineyards, and Tastings

Château de l'Engarran: Classical Architecture and Elegance

The Château de l'Engarran is an imposing 17th-century manor located about 10 kilometers from the city of Montpellier and is surrounded by a magnificent landscaped park.

Built in the 17th century, this castle is a perfect example of French classical architecture of that era. It is also considered a historical monument because of its architectural, historical, and cultural interest.

Engarran Castle was built for the Count of Engarran, who was an important figure of the time. It was designed to be a place of rest and relaxation for the count and his family, with vast gardens, a lake, and hunting grounds.

Today, the monument is still in very good condition and is open to the public for guided tours. Visitors can discover the riches of the art collections and antiques, as well as the magnificent gardens and the lake. It is also possible to rent the castle for private events, such as weddings or receptions.

Several visits are available at different rates (between 10 and 25 euros), including wine tasting and castle exploration. These are free for those under 15 accompanied by an adult. Also, it is possible to visit the wine museum for free.

Château de Jonquières: Historic Vineyards and Guest Rooms

The Château de Jonquières is fortified and was built in the 15th century about 20 km north of Béziers.

Historically, remains of a construction on the site of the Jonquières Castle are dated to the 12th century. It seems that this castle, mentioned as early as 1323, was originally just a simple rural fortification. It was only between 1656 and 1666 that the castle was rebuilt in its current form.

The castle of Jonquières is today open to the public for historical guided tours. Through these visits, it is possible to discover the history of the castle, its park, 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 starting from 30 euros.

Jonquières Castle also houses magnificent guest rooms where you can stay in the middle of an enchanting setting.

Take advantage of your visit to Jonquières Castle to grant yourself a weekend in the heart of Hérault to better discover the region.

Château du Larzac: Vast Vineyards at the Foot of the Terrasses

Located in Pézenas, the Château de Larzac is built on a former site that 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 the Governor of Languedoc and Intendant of the Princes of Montmorency.

Larzac Castle also has a 62-hectare vineyard. This estate is composed of a wide variety of grape varieties and is therefore at 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 filled with history will charm you with its picturesque alleys and stone houses.

Castles in Charming Villages (Near Béziers and Montpellier)

Capestang Castle: A Historic Stop on the Canal du Midi

The castle was built by the Archbishops of Narbonne as lords of the place, a history dating from an unknown era. It is credited with having been built by Pierre de la Jugie, Archbishop of Narbonne from 1347 to 1375.

The visit to the Archbishops' Castle of Capestang lasts about 1 hour and is by request. It costs 2 euros for a self-guided tour, 4 euros for a guided tour, and 8 euros for a visit to the castle and the collegiate church.

Note that these visits are accessible to people with disabilities.

Baulx Castle: A Medieval Fortress in Saint Jean de Buèges

Baulx Castle 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. Finally, at the beginning of the 17th century and the beginning of the 18th century, it was transformed into a residence.

Every summer, the castle is open for commented tours on Sunday evenings. The guides are well-informed about the history of the castle and the tours take place in two parts: a visit to the buildings and a visit to 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 of opening hours, you can contact the Compagnons de Tras Castel.

Moreover, the village of Saint-Jean-de-Buèges is a very pretty picturesque village that is worth the detour. But it is also a superb climbing spot for thrill-seekers.

Margon Castle: Between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance

Margon Castle 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 a flamboyant Gothic decor, including large mullioned windows adorned with fantastic motifs, swallow's-nest-shaped turrets, and small crenelated parapets. The absence of machicolations on the walkways indicates that these were more intended to maintain a military appearance attributed to earlier periods than for real close defense.

The price of a visit to Margon Castle is 7 euros and free for those under 12.

The Montpellier "Folies": Exceptional Chateaux and Gardens

Château de la Mogère: A Glimpse into Montpellier’s History

The Domaine de la Mogère was purchased in 1706 by Fulcran Limozin, Secretary to the King and Controller of the Chancery of Montpellier. It remains in the hands of his family and has been passed down directly from generation to generation. Designed by architect Jean Giral in 1715, it features an elegant facade with a pediment set against a pine forest backdrop. La Mogère offers a glimpse 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 rate for visiting the interior of the castle and the gardens for 12-18 year olds is 5 euros and is free for those under 12.

After visiting this superb castle, you can take the opportunity to enhance your stay in Montpellier with some excursions outside the city; the Hérault flora and fauna are truly worth the detour!

Château de Flaugergues: The Most Famous Montpellier "Folie"

Built at the end of the 17th century, Flaugergues is one of the "folies" built by the Montpellier aristocracy to be their summer residence.

Acquired by Etienne de Flaugergues in 1696, he expanded and embellished it to make it a "country house" which became a model for other "folies" in the region. In 1811, it became one of the leisure residences of the Boussairolles. Today, it bears witness to the lifestyle of the Montpellier notables of the time.

Several visits and activities are possible at Flaugergues Castle ranging from 8 to 90 euros.

The Hérault thus abounds in an unexpected number of treasures; choosing among the most beautiful castles to visit in Hérault is no simple task. For us, they are all more beautiful than the next. They are part of the unmissable heritage of the region and Wisud strongly recommends that you go discover them.

Gaëlle VAN HUMBEECK