Olargues Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Olargues with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, where to stay, and transportation options.


Introduction to Olargues

Located in the Hérault department of the Occitanie region in France, Olargues is a charming medieval village, classified as one of the most beautiful in the country. Its winding cobblestone streets, historic stone houses, and picturesque bridges spanning the Jaur River make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the area.

List of Places to Visit in Olargues

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Château d’Olargues: Located on a hill overlooking the village, this 11th-century castle has been partially restored and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Eglise Saint-Laurent d’Olargues: This Romanesque church dates back to the 12th century and features a unique twisted spire, as well as beautiful stained-glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Olargues: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parc Naturel Régional du Haut-Languedoc: This regional park is a haven for nature lovers, offering hiking, cycling, and mountain biking trails, as well as breathtaking views from the mountain peaks.
  • Gorges d’Héric: Located just a few kilometers from Olargues, these stunning ravines offer opportunities for swimming, rock climbing, and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Olargues

Olargues is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts with endless trails through the surrounding hills and forest. Here are a few of the best:

  • Circuit Découverte (Discovery Trail): This easy 6-kilometer loop starts in the village and takes you through vineyards, olive groves, and scenic vistas.
  • Vallée du Jaur (Jaur Valley): This 14-kilometer trail follows the Jaur River through stunning gorges and offers a great opportunity to spot local wildlife.
  • Le Caroux (Caroux Mountain): This challenging 35-kilometer loop takes you to the peak of the Caroux Mountain for spectacular views of the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Olargues: Activities and Tours

  • Canoeing/kayaking: The Jaur River offers calm waters and easy paddling for a relaxing afternoon on the water.
  • Wine tasting: The Languedoc region is known for its excellent wines, and Olargues is no exception. Visit a local winery like Domaine de Brian, just outside the village, for a tasting.
  • Guided tours: Local guides offer walking tours of the village, as well as hikes and bike rides in the surrounding countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Olargues

Day 1: Arrive in Olargues and explore the village’s historic center.

Day 2: Visit Château d’Olargues and learn about the village’s rich history.

Day 3: Hike the Circuit Découverte trail and enjoy the stunning countryside scenery.

Day 4: Take a guided bike ride through the surrounding hills and forests.

Day 5: Relax by the Jaur River and go for a swim.

Day 6: Visit a local winery for a tasting and learn about the region’s wine-making history.

Day 7: Spend the day exploring the nearby town of Saint-Pons-de-Thomières and its market.

Food and Drink Scene of Olargues

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cassoulet: This hearty stew, made with white beans and meat, is a regional specialty.
  • Croustade: A sweet pastry filled with apples, pears, or prunes, and topped with crumbled pastry.
  • Fougasse: A flat bread made with olive oil and herbs, often served as an appetizer.

Local Beverages

  • Languedoc wines: The region is known for its excellent red, white, and rosé wines.
  • Pastis: An anise-flavored liqueur often served as an apéritif.
  • Cider: Made from local apples and pears, cider is a refreshing drink perfect for warm afternoons.

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

  • La Maison d’Hôtes: This charming guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and a stunning terrace overlooking the river.
  • La Maison Bersane: Located in the historic center of Olargues, this renovated stone house offers spacious rooms with modern amenities.
  • Auberge de la Tour: Situated in a 15th-century tower, this hotel offers panoramic views of the village and surrounding hills.

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

  • Olive oil: Olargues is located in the heart of a region known for its high-quality olive oil.
  • Honey: The hills around Olargues are dotted with beehives producing delicious local honey.
  • Pottery: Local potters create unique pieces inspired by the village’s natural beauty.

Local Culture and Customs of Olargues

Olargues is steeped in history and tradition, and locals take pride in their village’s heritage. Visitors can experience this firsthand through local festivals and events, such as the annual Fête de la Saint-Laurent in August, which includes a parade and live music.

Best Time to Visit Olargues

The best time to visit Olargues is from May to September when the weather is warm and the village is bustling with activity. However, the autumn months can be equally beautiful, with the changing colors of the trees and vineyards.

Do’s and Don’ts of Olargues

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local wine and cuisine.
  • Explore the surrounding countryside on foot or by bike.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash behind in natural areas.
  • Smoke in public areas, including restaurants and cafés.
  • Be loud or disruptive after hours in residential areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Olargues

Olargues is a relatively safe destination, but visitors should still take common-sense safety precautions, such as locking doors and windows while sleeping and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Olargues

The village has a medical center and pharmacy for minor illnesses or injuries. In case of an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Getting to Olargues: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Olargues

The nearest international airport to Olargues is Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport, approximately 100 km (62 mi) away. Other nearby airports include Béziers-Cap d’Agde Airport and Carcassonne Salvaza Airport.

Bus Stations Near Olargues

There is a local bus station in the village, with connections to nearby towns and cities. The nearest major bus station is in Béziers, approximately 45 km (28 mi) away.

Other Options

Driving is the most convenient way to reach Olargues, and there are several car rental agencies at nearby airports. Visitors can also take a train to the nearby town of Bédarieux and then catch a bus to Olargues.

How to Get Around in Olargues

The village is small enough to explore on foot, and many of the attractions are located within easy walking distance of one another. Bikes are also available for rent at several local shops and are a great way to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Olargues: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Saint-Pons-de-Thomières: A nearby town known for its market and beautiful historic center.
  • Roquebrun: A picturesque village known for its Mediterranean gardens and river beach.
  • Carcassonne: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous medieval fortified towns in the world.

Conclusion

Olargues may be a small village, but it has a lot to offer visitors looking for an authentic French experience. From its winding streets to its scenic countryside, Olargues is a destination that should not be missed.