Region and excursions

Excursions & Treasures of the Hérault Region


Starting from Agde, one of the oldest cities in France
Land of sunshine, volcanoes and the Mediterranean, Hérault is a region of strong character where history is written in black stone, where traditions are shared around the table, and where every turn reveals a striking panorama.
From Agde, a Greek then Gallo-Roman city founded over 2,600 years ago, set off to discover a department of exceptional richness, from the closest sites to the furthest, always steeped in soul and authenticity.

ON FOOT OR BY BIKE – LESS THAN 5 KM FROM AGDE


Agde, the Black Pearl of the Mediterranean Nicknamed the Black Pearl because of its volcanic basalt, Agde is an ancient Greek city (Agathé Tyché) where history emerges in every narrow street. Stroll through the historic center, discover Saint-Etienne Cathedral, a true fortress of black stone, then walk along the banks of the Hérault River, once a major commercial artery linking the sea to the hinterland. Not to be missed: • The Musée de l’Éphèbe and Underwater Archaeology Museum, unique in France • The traditional market, vibrant with colors and southern accents • Water jousting, an emblematic tradition of Hérault

Le Grau d’Agde & La Tamarissière
At the mouth of the Hérault River, Le Grau d’Agde has preserved the soul of a former fishing village. Colorful boats, nets drying in the sun and the scent of sea spray create a typically Mediterranean setting.
La Tamarissière, lined with century-old pine trees, invites relaxation and contemplation.
Local flavors:
• Bourride of monkfish
• Cuttlefish in rouille sauce
• Oysters and mussels from the Thau Lagoon

LESS THAN 20 KM – THE HÉRAULT ART OF LIVING


Marseillan & the Thau Lagoon A charming Languedoc port, Marseillan is inseparable from its famous aperitif Noilly Prat, aged outdoors facing the sea. The Thau Lagoon is the kingdom of oyster farming: enjoy oysters and mussels directly from the producers, with a glass of Picpoul de Pinet in hand.

Pézenas, City of Molière
A former town of fairs and cloth merchants, Pézenas charms visitors with its Renaissance heritage. Molière stayed here for long periods, leaving behind a cultural legacy that is still very much alive.
Traditions:
• The Petits Pâtés de Pézenas, sweet-and-savory pastries
• Artisan crafts and cobbled streets full of character

BETWEEN 30 AND 50 KM – NATURE & MAJOR HERITAGE


Lake Salagou Created by a dam in the 1960s, Lake Salagou offers a spectacular landscape of red earth (ruffes) contrasting with the deep blue of the water. An almost lunar setting, ideal for hiking and contemplation.

The Cirque of Mourèze
A listed natural site, this dolomitic cirque is a labyrinth of rocks sculpted by time. Each shape evokes an animal, a face or a legend.

Béziers & the 9 Locks of Fonseranes
A masterpiece of the Canal du Midi, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Fonseranes Locks bear witness to the hydraulic genius of the 17th century.

BETWEEN 50 AND 70 KM – THE WIDE OPEN SPACES OF HÉRAULT


Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert Listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, this medieval jewel nestled in the Hérault gorges was a major stop on the Way of Saint James. Gellone Abbey, UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Héric Gorges
In the heart of Haut-Languedoc, this wild site with its natural pools is an invitation to cool off and escape.

Pic Saint-Loup
A symbol of the Languedoc vineyards, this limestone peak overlooks an exceptional terroir. Hiking to the summit or wine tasting in the surrounding estates—here, wine is both a culture and a way of life.

ICONIC MAJOR CITIES


Sète, the Venice of Languedoc A port city with a rich Gallo-Roman past, Sète is a mosaic of canals, maritime traditions and popular culture. Must-see experiences: • Water jousting • Sète-style tielle • Panoramic view from Mount Saint-Clair

Montpellier
Both young and historic, Montpellier charms visitors with its medieval Écusson district, Place de la Comédie and vibrant cultural life.

Cap d’Agde – Between Sea and Volcanic Landscapes


La Conque Beach
A true geological curiosity, this small cove of black volcanic sand is dominated by the famous Deux Frères rocks, remnants of two ancient volcanic cones.
A wild, almost mystical site not to be missed under any circumstances.

Diving & the Underwater Trail of Les Tables
Beneath the surface, the volcanic past of Cap d’Agde is revealed through the Les Tables underwater trail, a fascinating world where marine life, flora and spectacular rock formations blend together.

Mont Saint-Loup (113 m)
The last witness of the Auvergne volcanic chain, Mont Saint-Loup offers an exceptional panorama: from the coastline to the Cévennes, via the Thau Lagoon and sometimes even the Pyrenees.
A place steeped in history, once a strategic lookout point.

A LAND TO EXPERIENCE, TASTE AND SHARE


Here, traditions are passed down, meals linger, and each village tells its own story. Between sea, vineyards and garrigue scrubland, the Hérault region is not just a destination: it is an experience.