What to do in Hérault
Why come to Herault?
It is undeniable that there are fantastic landscapes and incredible places in France and the world. Yes of course, we all agree.
So why come to the Herault department?
--> I'll answer in four words: "Incredible diversity of landscapes."
Beyond this diversity, the region has many assets that are still unknown to foreign tourists but also to French people. The most surprising is that even the locals often go looking for wonders elsewhere while treasures are at their feet.
The region of the Hérault is a nugget, a jewel. With fewer people than on the French Riviera, we have an exceptional heritage, breathtaking landscapes, a history and people not as bad as we pretend
Montpellier and the beaches: historical tourist attractions of the Hérault region
And yes, things are changing, but for the moment, visitors are still attracted first of all by our beaches, our climate or to visit the dynamic city of Montpellier.
Serte the sea is an important asset, but to limit oneself to the nice beaches of La Grande Motte, Palavas or Carnon would be a pity.
You have to be curious, there are beautiful things to see on the side of Maguelone, Agde or Sète for example.
The Pic du Saint Loup, a land of garrigue
The Pic Saint Loup, an emblematic summit
It is an almost mythical peak for the Montpellierrains! With the Hortus, the other mountain facing it, they feast the eyes of all. The Peak is above all an incredible shape that can be seen from all over the region.
In the nature, surrounded by garrigue, a lot of activities are possible.
Of course, beautiful walks and hikes are possible with as a reward exceptional panoramas overlooking the garrigue.
On this territory, everyone can find an activity to his or her liking.
Adventure sports such as climbing, mountain biking, mountain climbing, mountain biking, mountain climbing, climbing, climbing, via ferrata, mountain biking are legion. I will also quote the original and off-road rides in electric longboard.
The list is long but if you have a soft spot for animals and are looking for discovery, I recommend the Horseback riding around the Pic St Loup.
✅ Electric longboard ride around the Pic St Loup
✅ Horseback riding around the Pic St Loup.
Pic Saint Loup PDO, a world famous wine
Whatever the chosen activity, you won't be able to ignore the vineyards that surround the Pic Saint Loup. This vineyard is one of the most famous in the region and even beyond.
The recognition of the quality of the terroir has long since crossed the borders of the department.
Don't hesitate to visit one of the many estates surrounding the peak. There is no lack of choice, you can tasting the vintages but also meet the winemaker, visit his cellars or his vineyard.
✅Tasting of a world famous wine
Two major sites in the Herault valley
Les grands Sites de France
First of all the cirque of Moureze and its spectacularly shaped dolomites. A few kilometers away, the lake of Salagou and its red earths called la ruffe.
As the crow flies, Moureze and Salagou are very close but geologically, there is a 100 million year difference. What a visual contrast!
Don't forget this when you taste the wines of the area, the AOP terraces du Larzac. Hmm... The climate is important to make good wine but the soil is essential.
✅ Discover the circus of Moureze
The second site and also the best known is around Saint Guilhem le désert, a medieval village and an important stage on the road to Compostela, notably for its masterpiece classified by UNESCO, the abbaye de Gellone.
On the spot, a few will enter Argilum, a museum that displays ceramics and pottery. Otherwise, admire the magnificent Devil's Bridge, a must see? Why not take a swim or a canoe trip?
If you're looking for a bit of adventure, try the canyoning for example? An opportunity to experience the beauty of the gorge.
And in case of rain or for coolness, stop at Clamouse, a cave with multiple activities.
You have understood that there is no lack of activities in the valley.
If you have the soul of an artist or a literary spirit, then Pezenas is for you. The town of Molière will surprise you with its narrow streets, its art galleries and its prestigious past. Go ahead, go ahead!
The Causses and the Larzac plateau
The Templar villages
At the edge of the department, in the middle of nowhere, on the Larzac plateau, are hidden Templar villages made of old stones (Le Caylar or the neighbouring villages of Aveyron: Le Couvertoirade or La Cavalerie). A captivating history, a peaceful atmosphere, a longstanding know-how is all that you will love.
Don't leave the region without having tasted the pélardons (goat cheese) and the local charcuterie.
Next to the circus, there is no lack of points of interest, a medieval village, bathing places with a translucent river and a beautiful waterfall. For activities, many possibilities with hiking of course but also fishing. Peaceful and grandiose places!
Le Caroux
Haut Languedoc, Caroux or black mountain this region is magnificent. In the valley there are several picturesque villages such as Orlargue or Roquebrun but also the Orb, a river ideal for water activities such as canoeing and small bathing sites.
On the heights, lakes, peat bogs, beautiful cliffs and superb views. With a bit of luck, you will be able to observe some sheep.
In between, beautiful walks, the famous gorges of Héric and the wilder gorges of La Colombière. Ideal for a weekend in the wilderness, only 1 hour from Montpelier.
For athletes, mountain bike tracks and climbing sites attract many fans, but the choice is wide, all outdoor sports are possible: canyoning , caving, via ferrata...
