BIKE GETAWAY #1 - THREE GREAT SITES OF FRANCE IN THE HEART OF HÉRAULT

1

Departing from Le Caylar, set off on an unforgettable bike crossing through the heart of the Larzac Causse. Your journey begins with an immersion into the vastness of the Causse, land of sheep and arid landscapes shaped by time. A wild land where vast limestone plateaus alternate with the spectacular gorges of the Vis, the mills of La Foux, and the Cirque de Navacelles. Upon arrival at the hamlet of Navacelles, leave your bikes with your host and set out on a hike into the heart of the Cirque, a unique and remarkable place.

2

From the hamlet of Navacelles, take up your bikes again and continue your journey discovering an exceptional natural and historical heritage marked by the presence of menhirs and dolmens, witnesses of ancient civilizations that shaped these lands. Nearby, make a stop at Vacquerie Saint Martin de Castries, a typical village of the causses. Continue your route towards the Hérault Valley. Cross Arboras, where Mont Saint-Baudille, the highest point of the territory, marks the passage between the Larzac and the valley. Then discover the charming wine village of Montpeyroux and explore the Castellas, a medieval fortress offering a breathtaking view over the plains. Join the Gorges of the Hérault, a wild territory where limestone cliffs dominate the crystal-clear waters of the Hérault. On the way, Saint-Jean-de-Fos, land of potters, reveals its ancestral craft, then the legendary Devil’s Bridge welcomes you in a grand natural landscape. Ride to Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert where you will find your accommodation. Discover this medieval gem revealing its historic cobbled streets, stone houses and the majestic Abbey of Gellone, a jewel of Romanesque art listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

3

Take your bikes again and enjoy a stop in Aniane, the first monastic town of the Hérault Valley, before continuing your adventure between vines, garrigues, and rolling landscapes. Cross the peaceful village of Saint-Bauzille-de-la-Sylve where you can discover the Chappe Telegraph, then continue through the countryside of the Hérault Valley. Before reaching the red lands of the Salagou Valley, cross the Canet bridge, whose architecture recalls that of San Francisco, below which is a swimming spot in the Hérault River. Then, join Clermont l’Hérault, its feudal castle, southern gothic church, shaded avenues and traditional market (Wednesday morning). End of this day’s stage.

4

From Clermont l’Hérault, travel to Lake Salagou, passing by the apiary. Along its shores, observe the "hilltop" village of Liausson before reaching Salasc, a water village with numerous béals and colorful facades. Then, continue to Octon with its square, fountain and small typical shops, for a comforting break. From Lake Salagou, continue the adventure towards Lodève, an ancient episcopal city. Then, take the small roads towards Lauroux, the cirque and the Labeil cave. Arriving at Le Caylar, a stopover village with many local shops, don't miss the carved tree with its original shapes, the Roc Castel and its exceptional panorama. Congratulations on this wonderful adventure!

+33 4 67 88 86 44

Tourism Office Lodevois and Larzac

Nature Getaway Without a Car