In a rather unexpected setting in the South of France, Languedoc offers visitors the ‘Grand Site de la vallée du Salagou et Cirque de Mourèze' (The major site of the Salagou Valley and Cirque de Mourèze): a unique leisure site, protected from urban development and with the 'Natura 2000' label.
In central Languedoc, a combination of geological phenomena has created a surprising array of colours, textures and contrasting forms. Created in the1960s, today lake Salagou is the ideal spot for a variety of leisure activities, family walks, or just enjoying the sun. It's also the perfect occasion
to enjoy the local gastronomy on offer.
Amidst a vast stretch of water, among arid hills formed from red rock, lake Salagou offers the visitor an exceptional palette of colours thanks to a combination of several geological phenomena: the red brick colour of the 'ruffes' (clay-like sediments rich in iron oxide) contrasts with the black of the basalt (of volcanic origin) and blends harmoniously with the blue hues of the sky and water.
This artificial lake was created at the end of the 1960s to allow the irrigation of the surrounding crops. It also regulates the rise in water level on the Lergue and Hérault rivers.
Bordered by a lake to the north and the Cirque de Mourèze to the south, ‘Mont Liausson’ (535m) dominates the surrounding area. From the top, you can enjoy the stunning panorama of the pretty villages
down below and probably some of the best views of lake Salagou.
Year round sunshine makes this a unique place for outdoor activities, for lovers of sailing, hiking, or mountain-biking treks, for family walks, or simply just relaxing.
The land around the Salagou is also well-known for its Luque olives, its honey and its vineyards.
There are lots of riches to discover whilst out walking with the family
or friends.
> Length: 7 Km
> Surface area: 750 ha
> Perimeter: 28 Km
> Altitude: 139 m
> Depth: 4 to 45 m
> Capacity: 125 million m3
Between Clermont l’Hérault, Bédarieux and Lodève, the medieval village of Mourèze is surrounded by 300 hectares of chaotic rock formations created by erosion and designated the biggest dolomite site in France. As well as its 12th century church dedicated to Sainte-Marie, Mourèze boasts a maze of little streets where you'll find footpaths leading to a large group of giant stones, standing proud like soldiers.
