Top 12 bathing spots in the Herault region
Top 12 Swimming Spots in the Hérault
As we all know, local travel is the way to go these days. You might have planned a vacation to the Bahamas or Reunion Island, and unfortunately, it's been postponed. Help, what are we going to do!!!
Don't worry, the richness of our French cultural and natural heritage will win you over. You'll be surprised by the little treasures just a stone's throw from your home. No need to go to the other side of the world to enjoy your holidays; it's time to visit the South of France!!
Let's not overdo it, you were supposed to go to a paradise island, so we're not taking you to the far north. Ah, that southern spirit! And no, make no mistake, I am half-Breton, half-Parisian. Anyway, today I'm taking you to discover my region and the top paradise spots in the Hérault
SEA SIDE, the most beautiful beaches - HERAULT
Where to swim in Montpellier: two wild spots are waiting to be discovered around Montpellier. Indeed, the classic beaches of La Grande Motte, Carnon, or Palavas are very popular with tourists but are far from being the most beautiful.
ESPIGUETTE BEACH – Grau du Roi – Port Camargue
Located at the beginning of the Camargue, this wild beach, protected by its dunes, is a small piece of paradise that stretches for miles.
This Mediterranean desert is classified as a 'Grand Site de France'. You won't be bothered by your neighbor's towel here. Board sports lovers will find their happiness; it is THE spot for kitesurfers!
You can also rent pedal boats or canoes to spice up your day. And of course, if you want to relax, you can rent deckchairs at the beach restaurant. From the parking lot, you have to walk about 800m to reach the sea.
✅ Small group — Local expert guide — Departure from Montpellier
PILOU BEACH - Villeneuve les Maguelone
Shells and crustaceans... and pebbles!! Between the sea and the lagoon, Pilou beach is a wild seaside resort 20 minutes from Montpellier. Dunes and nature create its harmony. Keep your eyes open and spot the Maguelone Cathedral in the distance. Walk along the beach with your feet in the water; it takes about 30 minutes to reach it. It is a sand and pebble beach, popular with naturists. Very famous among locals, you can't miss the 'Carré Mer' restaurant by the Pourcel brothers at the beginning of the beach.
GRANDE CONQUE BEACH - Cap d’Agde
A black sand beach nestled in a cliff. The rocky landscape and crystal-clear water provide a total change of scenery for a day. A nice spot for families and sports enthusiasts. Quite busy in the summer, but it's worth a visit. A small staircase carved into the rock allows you to access the beach.
DISCOVER ARESQUIERS BEACH - Frontignan
THE most beautiful beach on the coast. Natural and wild, it offers a soothing landscape. The environment and setting are very pleasant. Isolated from overcrowded beaches in summer, it is a very quiet spot. Far from tanning oils and crowded towels, this little Mediterranean heart is waiting for you!
LAZARET BEACH - Sète
Have you ever been to Sète? The queen city for local gastronomy: Tielles, Macaronade, fresh fish. Famous for its oysters from the Thau lagoon, it's a great place for relaxing, but I also advise you to visit this charming fishing town. Anyway, back to our topic of the day. Lazaret beach is very well located between the harbor and the city center. A large stretch of sand, perfect for sunbathing and sports. For a more bucolic landscape, the Corniche beach is ideal. To get to Sète, besides the private excursions offered by Wisud, you can find some info on the Kayak site.
WILD SIDE, the most beautiful waterfalls and rivers of the Hérault
HERIC GORGES - Caroux
A feast for your eyes! The Heric Gorges are some of the most beautiful gorges in France, carved into the rock. I haven't been there yet, but I've had great feedback, and apparently, it's worth the detour. If you are avid hikers, you can climb to the top of the gorges while enjoying the natural pools for a swim.
✅ Small group — Local expert guide — Departure from Montpellier
LA VIS WATERFALL - Hérault Gorges
A dream spot! To take photos and post them on social media, this is THE place. I went there one afternoon with friends; it's a very pleasant place in the heart of nature. You can relax on the rocks with a splendid view of the waterfalls. I advise you to go in the morning during high season, as it is a popular tourist spot and can get crowded quickly.
DEVIL'S BRIDGE - SALAGOU LAKE - Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert
If you're not from the region, you must have heard of Saint Guilhem le Désert. Just 5 minutes away is the Devil's Bridge (Pont du Diable). A very popular river spot in the region. A small beach below is ideal for families. Sometimes it gets full, so I advise you to walk a little further to find a rock or a quieter spot. If you love jumping off rocks, you must go there! A magical place between mountains and boulders! Accessible via the Devil's Bridge parking lot. Park in the paid lot as it's very difficult to find anywhere else.
✅ Small group — Local expert guide — Departure from Montpellier
NAVACELLES WATERFALLS - Navacelles
In the heart of the village of Navacelles, go discover its waterfalls. I had the chance to wander around the Cirque de Navacelles, and for me, it's the most beautiful panorama in the region. A splendid view of the cirque. I've never been swimming at the waterfalls, but they are famous for their clear water and idyllic environment.
✅ Small group — Local expert guide — Departure from Montpellier
SAINT-ETIENNE-D’ISSENSAC BRIDGE
Ah, there are plenty of bridges in the region! The Saint Etienne d'Issensac bridge is a stop on the Way of Saint James (Camino de Santiago). Classified as a historical monument, it's a beautiful place for a swim. Ideal for families, there is plenty of room. It's best to go in the morning as it gets very crowded in the afternoon.
There you go, I've shared the most beautiful swimming spots in the Hérault in my opinion. The richness of our hinterland and coastline offers a wide choice of swimming spots. We agree, we might not have the most beautiful coastline in France, but some places are superb! Come on, don't wait any longer, hop in your car to cool off!!!
CITY SIDE - The most beautiful lakes in the Hérault
LE CRÈS LAKE - CÉCÈLES LAKE - Crès - Pic Saint-Loup
After work, a quick swim before heading home: Le Crès lake is only 15 minutes from Montpellier city center. A place for relaxation and leisure, ideal for a family day out. I enjoy going there at the end of the day during the week, as it tends to be crowded on weekends. Relaxation and pleasure! And you know what? Only 30 minutes from Montpellier near Pic Saint Loup: discover Cécèles Lake. Surrounded by mountains, you are right in the heart of nature. Come spend a relaxing moment at Cécèles Lake. Nestled between the mountains, the view is breathtaking!
LEZ SPRINGS - Montferrier-sur-Lez
The Lez river flows through the city of Montpellier. The Lez springs are located in Saint Clément de Rivière. Pack your picnic and spend a day by the river. Near the Lez springs, it is generally crowded on weekends, so walk along the Lez to find a quiet little spot; there's room for everyone.
Last bonus idea: rent a boat on the Canal du Midi, enjoy the water without getting wet!
Agathe ROLLAND, Tourism School student
