Between the limestone plateau of Larzac and Salagou Lake, near the Hérault river gorges, enjoy a stay in the south, surrounded by outstanding heritage sites.
In southern France, just 30 km west of Montpellier via the A75 motorway, set off to discover some magnificent natural and cultural sites. These include the Hérault river gorges, the "cirques" of Navacelles and Mourèze, Salagou Lake, the Abbey of Gellone and the village of Villeneuvette.
There's plenty to see and do in Lodève, a village possessing the prestigious "Art and History" label.
The Abbey of Gellone in Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert: an outstanding example of the Languedoc's Romanesque art
- This sanctuary was founded in 804 by William of Orange in the middle of an arid, wild, natural environment.
- Listed as World Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO thanks to the pilgrimage trails heading to Santiago de Compostela.
- The road runs along the steep Hérault river gorges. The river is crossed by the Pont du Diable (Devil's Bridge).
The Cirque de Navacelles: a breathtaking view!
- The Cirque de Navacelles, which is listed as a "Grand Site Naturel" and the gorges of the river Vis offer a spectacular
landscape shaped by the water.
- In the very heart of the Grands Causses, the amphitheatre overlooks the River Vis which carved out its bed 300 m downhill from here over the space of 3 million years.
Salagou Lake
- Situated in a hilly landscape of red rocks created by a combination of geological phenomena known as "ruffes".
- A huge range of leisure activities: water sports, rambling, hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, fishing... or just relaxing!
The Cirque de Mourèze
- The village is built at the entrance to the massive dolomitic cirque.
- The erosion of the limestone has created colossal, strangely shaped rock sculptures.
- Marked out walking trails facilitate hiking through this natural cirque.
The former royal factory in Villeneuvette
- The cloth mill created by Colbert, King Louis XIV's intendant, was a traditional activity in the Bas Languedoc area up until 1954.
- The former royal factory at Villeneuvette is a perfect example of a successful housing project for workers.
The town of Lodève
- Well worth a visit for the St Fulcran Cathedral, Dardé's war memorial, the soap-maker and exhibitions at the museum.
- Nearby: the Priory of Saint Michel de Grandmont.
