The most beautiful villages near Montpellier
Table of Contents
- ●Top 10 most beautiful medieval villages near Montpellier
- ●Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, a spiritual gem listed by UNESCO
- ●Olargues, one of the most beautiful villages in France
- ●Mourèze, an artists' village in a unique natural site
- ●Saint-Martin-de-Londres, a jewel at the foot of Pic Saint-Loup
- ●Les Matelles, stroll through the streets of this lovely village
- ●Pézenas, city of art, history... and delicacies
- ●Aigues-Mortes in Camargue, the ramparts of Saint Louis
- ●La Couvertoirade, Knights Templar city in the heart of Larzac
- ●Villeneuvette, a royal manufacture under Louis XIV
- ●Saint-Jean-de-Buèges and its castle at the foot of the Séranne
- ●FAQ: Visiting villages and UNESCO sites in Occitanie
Top 10 of the most beautiful villages near Montpellier
Planning a trip to Southern France? Most travelers rush from Barcelona to the French Riviera, missing the most authentic part of the coast.
As a local guide, I truly believe the Montpellier region is the South’s best-kept secret. It’s more authentic, more affordable, and far less crowded than Provence or the Côte d'Azur.
While Montpellier is vibrant, the real soul of the Hérault lies in its medieval stones and limestone cliffs. Here is my curated Top 10 of the most beautiful villages near Montpellier—from UNESCO world heritage sites to charming, time-frozen hamlets.
Not sure if you should choose this area over the more famous East? Read our comparison on Provence or Occitanie: which choice for your holidays?
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, a world heritage spiritual gem
A stopover on the Way of Saint James (Camino de Santiago), Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is an architectural and spiritual marvel. This medieval village, built around the Gellone Abbey, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and officially one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France".
The abbey is a masterpiece of Romanesque art, and the narrow cobbled streets surrounding it are filled with history. As you wander through the village, look for the Cardabelle thistles on the old wooden doors—a traditional symbol of the region. You'll also discover charming craft shops and the famous Place de la Liberté with its majestic 150-year-old plane tree.
To truly understand the mysteries of this place and its medieval history, you can read my detailed guide on visiting Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, where I share the legends and hidden corners of the village.
The village is also the gateway to the Hérault Gorges. Just a few minutes away, you can admire the Pont du Diable (Devil's Bridge), one of the oldest medieval bridges in France, also listed by UNESCO. Nearby, the Clamouse Cave (Grotte de Clamouse) offers a breathtaking underground journey with its unique crystalline formations. This area is also the perfect starting point to explore the dramatic landscapes of the Salagou lake and the Mourèze cirque.
✅ Small group tour — Departure from Montpellier
Olargues, one of the most beautiful villages in France
Listed as one of France's most beautiful villages, Olargues is a jewel in the Parc naturel du Haut-Languedoc. Nestling on the banks of the River Jaur, this medieval village boasts cobbled streets, historic relics and breathtaking views.
What to see in Olargues
- The bell tower-dungeon, former vestige of the medieval castle, offers a panoramic view of the Jaur valley and surrounding mountains.
- The Pont du Diable d'Olargues, a superb 12th-century stone bridge, not to be confused with the famous Pont du Diable at Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert. From this emblematic site, enjoy a magnificent view of Olargues and the river.
Olargues, a village of heritage and nature
In addition to its rich medieval heritage, Olargues is also famous for its marrons d'Olargues, a local product appreciated by gourmets. Sports enthusiasts also know the village for the Enduro World Series, one of the toughest mountain bike races in the world.
Hiking and nature activities around Olargues
For hiking enthusiasts in Occitanie, the Montagnes du Caroux offer superb itineraries through wild, unspoilt landscapes. Whether you're looking for a nature walk, a day of canyoning in the Hérault or a discovery of the Haut-Languedoc Regional Nature Park, Olargues is the ideal destination for an authentic holiday.
✅ 100% private — Departure from your hotel
Moureze, an artists' village in a unique natural site
Nestled in the heart of the Hérault region, the medieval village of Mourèze has a picturesque charm and an exceptional natural setting. With its authentic alleyways, 11th-century church and the remains of its ancient castle, this Occitan village invites you to take a timeless journey.
The Cirque de Mourèze: a spectacular natural landscape
Far from being a cirque in the classical sense of the term, the lake Salagou is a veritable sea of limestone rocks sculpted by erosion over millions of years. This unique geological site, made up of strangely shaped dolomites, offers a striking backdrop reminiscent of some Far West landscapes.
Don't miss:
- Panoramic hikes through the cirque with exceptional viewpoints.
- Le Belvédère du Mont Liausson, offering breathtaking views of lake Salagou and the surrounding relief.
Mourèze, a village of artists and poetry
Beyond its spectacular scenery, Mourèze is also a village of artists. As you stroll through its narrow streets, you can admire the works of the driftwood sculptor, who scatters his creations throughout the village, or discover the poems of a local writer left behind the cemetery.
Whether you're a hiker in Occitanie, a geology enthusiast, or looking for an authentic village to visit near Montpellier, Mourèze is a must-see destination!
✅ Small group — Expert local guide — Departure from Montpellier
Saint Martin de Londres, a jewel at the foot of the Pic Saint Loup
Among all the most beautiful villages near Montpellier, the view that greets you as you pass through a porch is one of my favourites.
If I were you, I'd start my visit in the central square, with its shady fountain and century-old plane trees, and sit on the terrace of a café, just to enjoy!
Afterwards, discover the 11th-century Romanesque church, listed as a Monument Historique, a real architectural gem. Its trefoil plan, unique in the Languedoc region, and its cupola topped by a lantern give it a majestic appearance. The village has also preserved vestiges of its medieval walls, as well as numerous old houses with stone doors and slate roofs.
The history of Saint-Martin-de-Londres is closely linked to that of the Abbey of Saint-Guilhem-du-Désert. In the 12th century, the Benedictine monks contributed to the village's prosperity by developing agriculture and wine-growing. Surrounded by this preserved nature, it is the ideal place to discover the scented plants of the Garrigue.
Today, Saint-Martin-de-Londres is a peaceful village on the outskirts of Montpellier. Its picturesque narrow streets, craftsmen and local produce invite you to stroll and discover.
Saint Martin de Londres is also the starting point of one of the favorite hiking tours of French people: the Tour from Londres to Bueges!
Les Matelles, wander through the narrow streets of this pretty medieval village
Another medieval village, one of the most beautiful I've visited in the area. At the foot of the famous Pic Saint-Loup, the charm of Les Matelles lies in its well-preserved medieval character, with narrow streets, stone houses and 14th-century ramparts.
The village's history dates back to the 12th century. In the Middle Ages, Les Matelles was an important stronghold, surrounded by three successive walls. The village prospered thanks to agriculture, livestock farming and crafts.
Today, Les Matelles is home to a number of sites of interest, including the Maison des Consuls, which exhibits archaeological remains, and the church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, a listed historic monument.
Wine lovers will not want to miss the AOC Pic Saint-Loup wines.
✅ 100% private — Departure from your hotel
Pézenas, a city of art, history... and delicacies
Listed as a Town and Region of Art and History, Pézenas is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Montpellier. Its perfectly preserved old town is full of art galleries, designer studios, and craft shops that give the city an incomparable charm.
In the footsteps of Molière in Pézenas
Pézenas also owes its fame to Molière, who stayed there several times in the 17th century. Even today, the spirit of the playwright still lingers in the narrow streets of the historic center.
The town has several theaters, but the historic theater of Pézenas, one of the oldest in Languedoc, is the stage that best recreates the artistic atmosphere of yesteryear.
A village marked by great figures
In addition to Molière, Pézenas is also the birthplace of the wonderful Boby Lapointe, famous for his humorous songs and puns. There is even a space dedicated to him, perfect for a fun family visit.
A unique heritage shaped by fairs and the Knights Templar
Over the centuries, Pézenas has developed around major regional fairs, attracting merchants and pilgrims. Its past linked to the Knights Templar adds a fascinating historical dimension to the discovery of the town.
Cobbled streets, mansions, and monumental gates make for an ideal itinerary for history and heritage enthusiasts.
Local specialties: a must-try!
It's impossible to leave without tasting Pézenas pâtés, a surprising sweet and savory recipe, which, according to legend, was brought back by a cook working for the Viceroy of India.
The berlingots de Pézenas, colorful and fragrant candies, are a treat for children and adults alike and make the perfect souvenir.
Aigues Mortes in Camargue, see the ramparts of Saint Louis
After Carcassonne, a little further away from Montpellier, the town of Saint Louis is, in my opinion, the most beautiful and impressive fortified town in Occitania.
This huge citadel at the gates of the Camargue has powerful towers and ramparts, built with a sand-colored stone, which plays on the warm aspect of this city.
Climb on the parapet walk, and admire the breathtaking view of the Camargue and the pink salt marshes ...
✅ Small group — Expert local guide — Departure from Montpellier
Visit La Couvertoirade, Templar town in the heart of Larzac
Nestled on the Larzac plateau, La Couvertoirade is one of the most beautiful medieval villages near Montpellier.
Located in a territory classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site and listed among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, this former fortified Templar city instantly immerses visitors in the atmosphere of knights and the heyday of the Middle Ages.
A perfectly preserved Templar village
Surrounded by imposing gray stone ramparts, La Couvertoirade exudes authentic charm. Its cobbled streets, stone houses, and peaceful atmosphere give the impression of walking through a period setting.
Above all, the town is home to a unique piece of history:
➡️ the only genuine Templar castle still standing in France.
It is an essential place to visit to understand the major role played by the Order of the Temple in the Larzac region.
A medieval stroll for young and old alike
La Couvertoirade is the kind of village that will enchant the whole family. With its secret alleyways, old shops, fortified church, and panoramic views of the plateau, a visit here is a real journey back in time.
The Larzac windmill: a must-see view
Leaving the ramparts behind, a beautiful restored windmill dominates the hill. From the top, the view over the Larzac plateau and the rooftops of La Couvertoirade is splendid—a perfect spot for taking photos.
Larzac gastronomy: a must-try
You can't leave without tasting the local specialties!
👉 Creamy aligot, charcuterie from the plateau, farmhouse cheeses... Larzac offers rustic and generous cuisine that is an integral part of the visit.
✅ 100% private — Departure from your hotel
Villeneuvette, a royal factory under the reign of Louis 14
As soon as you arrive, you'll be impressed by the avenue of plane trees. Then, once you've passed through the imposing entrance to the village of Villeneuvette, you're struck by the calm and serenity of the place. It's as if time has stood still.
Created by Louis XIV himself, Villeneuvette was once a royal cloth manufacturer. The sheets were exported to the Middle East, and were later used by the king's army. All the workers' families were housed on site and the factory gradually became a village.
In short, a rich past, but not the only one. If you fancy a pleasant hour's stroll, go to the Pont de l'Amour and then up the hill to discover the remains of the old hydraulic system, a masterpiece for its time.
Tip: To visit this village, we recommend you book the 'Moureze and Saint Guilhem' excursion and ask your guide to stop off in this magical place. He will be delighted to do so.
Saint Jean de Bueges with its castle at the foot of the Séranne
Its location in the Buèges valley and at the foot of the Séranne mountain offers a really incredible setting. Without doubt the wildest valley of the Herault.
As you approach the houses, the traditional houses and the Romanesque church contribute to the charm of this typical village, not to mention its imposing castle.
My little piece of advice : go in search of the source of the Buèges, and follow the crystalline waters. You won't regret it!
Note that the imposing rock overlooking the village is used for abseiling and climbing.
The Perfect Day Trip: Why choose the Montpellier region?
As you can see, the area surrounding Montpellier is a true sanctuary of history and nature. Unlike the crowded streets of Provence, our villages offer an authentic experience where you can still feel the soul of the South of France.
Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, the Hérault region is the perfect place to slow down and explore.
Planning to visit these gems without a car? It can be tricky as public transport is limited in the countryside, but we’ve listed the best car-free activities around Montpellier to help you out.
Ready to explore the best-kept secrets of the South?
If you want to enjoy these villages without the stress of driving and with the stories of a local expert guide, feel free to contact us. We would be delighted to show you our favorite spots!
David SATGER and Olivier BOURRAT
FAQ: UNESCO Sites and Medieval Villages near Montpellier
Which UNESCO sites can I visit from Montpellier?
Montpellier is the perfect hub to visit the Abbey of Gellone (Saint-Guilhem), the Pont du Gard, the Medieval City of Carcassonne, the Canal du Midi, and Nîmes' Maison Carrée.
How many "Most Beautiful Villages of France" are in the area?
There are 3 officially labeled villages in Herault: Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Minerve, and Olargues. Historic gems like Pézenas are also worth a visit.
What are the "Grands Sites de France" near Montpellier?
Key protected landmarks include the Cirque de Navacelles, the Hérault Gorges, the Salagou valley, and the ancient city of Minerve.
Can I visit Carcassonne or the Pont du Gard without a car?
Yes! Wisud offers professional guided day trips from Montpellier to UNESCO sites like Carcassonne and the Pont du Gard, including comfortable transportation.
What is the best medieval village to visit?
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a must-see for its UNESCO abbey, followed by the Cathar city of Minerve and the picturesque village of Olargues.
How can I visit multiple historical sites in one day?
Wisud tours are specifically designed to combine several UNESCO landmarks or beautiful villages in a single day trip departing from Montpellier.
