Hérault Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, and stay in Hérault with this comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, we've got everything you need to plan your perfect trip.


Introduction to Hérault

Located in the Occitanie region of France, Hérault is a stunning destination that offers visitors everything from beautiful beaches to captivating history. The area is known for its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious cuisine, making it the perfect vacation spot for anyone looking to experience the best of France. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll discover all the must-visit places and experiences that Hérault has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Hérault

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, Hérault has something for everyone. Here are just a few of the top attractions that you won’t want to miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Musée Fabre: This impressive museum in the heart of Montpellier is home to an impressive collection of European art that spans from the 15th to the 20th centuries.
  • Château de Flaugergues: A beautiful 17th-century castle that has been perfectly preserved, complete with stunning gardens and a museum that showcases the history of the estate.
  • Amphitheatre de Nîmes: An incredibly well-preserved Roman amphitheatre that dates back to the 1st century AD and is now a popular concert venue.

Natural Attractions of Hérault: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gorges d’Héric: A picturesque canyon in the heart of the Haut-Languedoc natural park, complete with hiking trails and breathtaking views.
  • Cirque de Navacelles: A stunning natural amphitheatre that was formed over 3 million years ago and is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
  • Canal du Midi: One of the most famous canals in Europe, and a great place to enjoy a leisurely boat ride or walk.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hérault

Hérault is a hiker’s paradise, with trails that offer breathtaking views and the opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty. Some of the top hiking and biking routes in Hérault include:

  • Le Chemin des Carrières de Lumières: A beautiful hike that takes you through the stunning Carrières de Lumières, a quarry that has been transformed into an art exhibit.
  • Le Chemin des Moulins: A scenic bike ride that follows the Canal du Midi and takes you through picturesque towns and rolling hills.
  • Pic Saint-Loup: A challenging hike that rewards you with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including the Mediterrean Sea.

Best Things to Do in Hérault: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are plenty of other things to do in Hérault. Some of the top activities and tours include:

  • Wine Tours: Hérault is known for its delicious wines, and there are plenty of opportunities to try some of the best local varieties on a wine tour.
  • Beaches: Hérault has a number of beautiful beaches, where you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or water sports.
  • Food Tours: French cuisine is renowned around the world, and Hérault is no exception. A food tour is the perfect way to discover local delicacies and hidden gems.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hérault

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Hérault:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Montpellier and explore the city
Day 2 Visit the Musée Fabre and enjoy a wine tour in the afternoon
Day 3 Take a scenic drive to the Cirque de Navacelles and hike in the area
Day 4 Visit the Château de Flaugergues and explore the city of Nîmes
Day 5 Spend the day at the beach and enjoy water sports
Day 6 Explore the Canal du Midi by bike or boat
Day 7 Enjoy a food tour of the local markets and cuisine before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Hérault

One of the best things about visiting Hérault is the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cassoulet: A local dish that consists of white beans, sausage, and stewed meat.
  • Tielle: A savoury pastry filled with octopus, tomatoes, and onions that is a specialty of the region.
  • Bouillabaisse: A traditional seafood soup that is popular in Hérault.

Local Beverages

  • Wines: Hérault produces some of the best wines in France, including red, white, and rosé varieties.
  • Vermouth: Hérault is also known for its vermouth, which is a fortified wine that is flavoured with herbs and spices.

Where to Stay in Hérault: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, Hérault offers a range of accommodation options to suit every need and budget. Here are some top picks:

  • La Villa Nova: A stunning boutique hotel in Montpellier’s historic city centre.
  • Hotel de la Paix: A charming hotel with a central location in the heart of Nîmes.
  • Hostellerie La Bergerie: A rustic guesthouse in the heart of the Haut-Languedoc natural park.

What to Buy in Hérault: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to souvenirs and local products, Hérault has plenty of options. Here are some top picks:

  • Wine: A bottle of Hérault wine is the perfect souvenir for wine lovers.
  • Fleur de Sel de Camargue: This sea salt is harvested in the nearby Camargue region and is renowned for its delicate flavour.
  • Olives: Hérault is known for its delicious olives, which are often flavoured with herbs and spices.

Local Culture and Customs of Hérault

The people of Hérault are known for their warm hospitality and love of food and wine. When visiting the area, it’s important to respect local customs and etiquette.

Best Time to Visit Hérault

The best time to visit Hérault is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be quite hot and crowded, while winter can be rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hérault

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Hérault:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and wine.
  • Explore the region’s natural beauty.
  • Learn about the local history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Litter or damage natural areas.
  • Ignore safety warnings or signs.

Safety and Health

Hérault is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to stay safe. Here are some tips:

Safety in Hérault

  • Be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
  • Follow safety guidelines for outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking.
  • Use caution when swimming in the sea, and always follow lifeguard instructions.

Health in Hérault

  • Make sure you have adequate health insurance before travelling.
  • Stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Take precautions to prevent mosquito bites during the summer.

Getting to Hérault: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hérault is easily accessible by plane, train, or car. Here are some of the best ways to get there:

Airports Near Hérault

  • Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport
  • Béziers Cap d’Agde Airport

Bus Stations Near Hérault

  • Montpellier Bus Station
  • Béziers Bus Station

Other Options

  • Trains: Hérault is well-connected to the French railway network, with major train stations in Montpellier and Béziers.
  • Car: Renting a car is a great way to explore Hérault at your own pace and visit areas that are harder to reach by public transport.

How to Get Around in Hérault

Hérault’s public transportation system is efficient and reliable, with buses and trains that connect most of the region’s major cities and towns. Taxis are also widely available.

Where to Go Next from Hérault: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that are worth a visit:

  • Carcassonne: A medieval fortress that is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region.
  • Aigues-Mortes: A charming fortified town on the coast that dates back to the 13th century.
  • Sète: A picturesque coastal town that is known for its seafood and vibrant art scene.

Conclusion

Hérault is a beautiful destination that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, nature, and cuisine. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’re now ready to plan the perfect trip to Hérault and make the most of everything the region has to offer.

Pont Saint-Joseph, a late 17th-century bridge in Agde Pont Saint-Joseph, a late 17th-century bridge in Agde The Peninsula and Mountain of Rouens (253m) in the township of Clermont-l'Hérault, and the Lac du Salagou; photo taken from the southwest in the township of Liausson The Peninsula and Mountain of Rouens (253m) in the township of Clermont-l'Hérault, and the Lac du Salagou; photo taken from the southwest in the township of Liausson


    Bouzigues
    Béziers
    Minerve
    Olargues
    Pézenas