18/07/07 10:59

DDB Travel & Tourism - Edition 2007 - Photos : Office de Tourisme : N. Chorier, H. Comte, J. Guittet, J.C. Meauxsoone, P. Ramond. Exposition “Parures d'Amazones” p.6 : création Cathy Specth. G. Lepage. Office de Tourisme de Béziers. - Illustrations :

16p-120x210-BALADES-F-GB-D Page 16

L E C A P D ’ A G D E • L A C I T É D ’ A G D E • L E G R A U D ’ A G D E • L A TA M A R I S S I È R E

A year-round resort Capital GB

Autorisation : AU 034 98 0001

DISCOVERY GUIDE

16p-120x210-BALADES-F-GB-D

18/07/07

10:59

Page 2

Contents A Capital destination in all seasons Cap d’Agde offers hidden lanes or broad horizons, blue skies or green countryside, with a wealth of suggestions for walking and the beautiful Mediterranean always just around the corner. This guide is an invitation to discover Cap d’Agde, the ancient city of Agde, Grau d’Agde, a village on the coast, the village of La Tamarissière and the surrounding region with its many charming villages, historical sites and beautiful landscapes. Whether you want to lace up your seven-league boots or simply stroll around the town, this handy brochure will help you plan your walks and get to know this delightful resort in any season.

4 The volcanic cliffs belvedere

7 The Canal du Midi

5 The Mont Saint-Loup

Discovery

paths

from 1 to 2 hours A stroll through Cap d’Agde from Rochelongue to Richelieu

9

6 Agde: 2500 years of history

Advice You have to be equipped properly for the outings: walking shoes, hats or caps, sun cream and water supply. For security reason: • please do not light fires • do not smoke in dry areas • do not throw cigarettes out of the car • do follow the official paths The paths in this brochure are not signposted. Make sure you have a map.

on foot

by bicycle

by car

10-11

12

Pézenas and the Hérault river valley

8

The banks of the Hérault river

The Pays of Béziers

Excursions 1/2 or full day

La Tamarissière

13 Sète and the Pays de Thau

14-15 Places to stop when driving through the Languedoc

16p-120x210-BALADES-F-GB-D

Discovery

18/07/07

10:59

Page 4

Discovery paths

paths

Le Cap d’Agde

 from 1 to 2 hours

La cité d'Agde 2

Cap d’Agde’s relief is the result of a marine volcano that erupted 750,000 years ago from the southern extremity of the Auvergne range. From the cliffs there is a spectacular view of the Mediterranean to discover during a walk which starts from the right of the top of Rue de la Garnison, and leads up to the summit.

3 km

Ru

ed

Parking

el aG

Zone Technique du port

arn

iso

n

(Passerelle)

Port

Thalacap

Le Môle

Ca p

Parking du Fortin

Qu

ai

du

ux Vie

Plage de la Grande Conque

Qu ai d e l’

Rocher des 2 Frères

Est aca de

Avant Port

La Plagette

Jetée Richelieu

 This path follows the crest of the coastline. Right from the beginning, there is a magnificent view of the sea and the multiple blue reflections which change and play with the sky and the light. The rocky coast which has been constantly eroded by the sea, sinks its basalt claws into the water’s depths and the little creeks that have been formed are the delight of those who enjoy the sea, from swimmers to sailors. The successive volcanic eruptions can be seen in the variety of soils: solidified lava flows, volcanic tuff with sediments and vitrified scoria, etc.  The walk continues towards the promontory’s

summit (cross the Fortin car park) towards the “Grande Conque” cove, with successive view points over the crescent shaped, black sanded beach and the “rochers des 2 frères” rocks. The high point of the cliff (21m) affords a clear view of Cap d’Agde, the coastline and the sea. After La Plagette, the monolithic

blocks indicate the beginning of the Richelieu jetty. A Cardinal who had the ambition of building a great port in the region constructed it in the XVII century. It points towards Brescou Island which was to have been the outer point of the harbour. The project was abandoned upon the Cardinal’s death.  By the Quai de l’Estacade, fishing smacks are

moored alongside leisure boats. Take the Quai du Vieux Cap into the heart of the marina along the Île des Pêcheurs. At the end of the quay walk straight into the port’s Technical Yard which you can cross by following the wharves. Leave by climbing the stairs onto the footbridge that crosses the Cours des Gentilshommes. A footpath takes you to the esplanade (Chemin de Front de Mer). For safety reasons, you should never leave the marked gravel path above the cliffs and keep well clear of the cliff edge which is subject to landslides.

2

The Mont Saint-Loup, an extinct wooded volcano 3 km

Le Cap d’Agde

The combined presence of the Hérault estuary and the volcanic peak of Mont St-Loup are the original factors for the setting up of Agde or rather “Agathé Tyché” (or good fortune in Greek), which after Marseille was the second town founded in France. Mont St-Loup, from its volcanic past, is today a preserved natural park where motorised transport is restricted.

 The walk begins on a tarmac path, which leads to the summit. The departure point is indicated by the sign “Sentier d’Emilie”, after the association which baptised this walk. The walk encircles the mountain in a beautiful natural environment of pine forest and Mediterranean scrubland. From the west slopes there is a view over the town of Agde and the old town which is marked by the Cathedral clock tower. Looking towards the sea, Grau d’Agde and La Tamarissière come into view with their lighthouses, which indicate the Hérault estuary. On a clear day, one can make out the Béziers coastline and sometimes even the Pyrenees Mountains.

Mont St Loup

Bd

F. M

itte

rra

nd

2

1

11

The volcanic cliffs belvedere

N

1

 The north slope has a panoramic view over

the Bagnas Nature Reserve, whose 560 hectares of marsh and inland water are a priceless ecological treasure. The Reserve also protects wildlife, including no fewer than 250 species of birds. You can see as far as the Thau lagoon and the metal structures of the oyster and mussel farms, while further inland you can make out the vineyards of the Pays d’Agde and, away in the distance, Sète and the Mont Saint-Clair.  Further around is the Cap d’Agde balcony. The whole station is stretched out below: from the naturist area (which is recognisable from its futuristic architecture) to Rochelongue, and from Mediterranean sea to Mont St-Martin and Mont St-Loup and the yachting harbour.  The path carries on to a fortified tower called “Tour

des Anglais”. Along with the semaphore on top of the mountain and Brescou Fort out to sea, this was part

Domaine St-Martin

Le Cap d’Agde

of the coastal defensive apparatus. It is possible to walk up to the semaphore through the woods. The fort is not open to visitors.  Rejoin the path to end the walk in the leafy company

of: almond, fig, pine and cedar trees and also blackberry bushes, olive trees, broom, laurel... a rich vegetation along the way. Look carefully ! We recommend that you leave your vehicle at the Domaine Saint-Martin then walk to the hill along the cycle track, crossing the Avenue F. Mitterrand at the pedestrian crossing near the roundabout.

. . . C A P I TA L . . . C A P I TA L . . . Swim the underwater trail The underwater trail follows the foot of the cliffs. It enables visitors to observe closely the underwater creatures that live near to the shore at a depth of 0 to 5 metres, either by diving or by wading waist-deep. During the summer, it is marked out by yellow buoys indicating the main habitats. For a fee (also covering the loan of equipment) the ADENA organises trips with the assistance of a qualified guide.

4

5

16p-120x210-BALADES-F-GB-D

Discovery

paths

Agde: 2500 years of history

3

u ie el ch Ri e

Rue

Place du 18 Juin

Ro J.J.

usse

Rue

Lou

is B

l’Amour

Rue Je an Roger

Venu ste Rue St

Mura tet

Rue

C ha

rlev

al

e la Rue d nité Frater Rue de la Poissonnerie

Jea Place n Ja urès

3

La cité d'Agde La Tamarissière Le Grau d'Agde Le Cap d

craftsmen based in the heart of the town, through the exhibition “Parures d’amazones” (1/07>31/10/07). Clothes designers, painters, sculptors, designers of jewellery or leaded glass, they all specialise in fashion and accessories. At the end of the street is a basalt building in the Renaissance style. This is the old Town Hall, built in the 17th Century. Walk under the arcades where the market was once held. Afterwards, continue down the Rue J. Roger to the edge of the Hérault River.

allegorical representation of the ancient city. It is situated just a few metres away from the Middle Age fortifications which were built on the original Greek ramparts.  Enter “La Glacière”, the oldest quarter in the town,

 In the “Hotel de la Charité” which has since become

L’H éra ult

s

Rue Chass

efière

Place de la Marine

 The “Agathé” fountain, called “La Belle Agathoise” is an

via rue H. Muratet and Place Molière. It is located on a volcanic mound where the ancient Greeks had already settled. Go up Rue de la Placette. The small square is very picturesque and the pilaster column door is worth a stop. Follow rue Terrisse which is typical of this area, narrow with aged facades and rows of old doors.  Then take the Rue Saint-Vénuste down to the Place Jean-Jaurès which provides a splendid vista of the Hérault River.  The imposing façade of the basalt cathedral dominates the street L. Bages. Built in the Romanesque style in the 12th Century, it resembles a fortress with its walls 2 to 3 m thick topped with battlements and machicolations, and its square 35 m tower. It filled a defensive as well as a spiritual role for the population under the protection of the bishops of Agde who administered the city from the 5th to the 18th Centuries. Further, the Salle du Chapitre shows the work of

6

4

the Agathois Museum, the history of Agde is presented in 24 small rooms: archaeology, traditions, costumes and furniture, the history of the marine, of wine, sacred art... On passing along rue Charleval, take a look at rue Gohin where the renovated and colourful houses perfectly illustrate the authentic volumes and basalt doorways and windows. Rue de l’Amour is a kaleidoscope of colours where one can stroll and leisurely search for a typical or exotic holiday souvenir.  Carry on to “Place du 18 Juin” and the Promenade, typical of southern French towns where the social life hums around the terraces of the cafes and under the plane trees. Back towards “Place de la belle Agathoise” and take a minute to admire this statue built in the memory of Claude Terrisse, privateer to the king and benefactor of the town.

 from 1 to 2 hours

The Canal du Midi 1 km

 Agde’s river port was the most active in the Gulf of Lion until the XIX century, however, the silting up of the river marked the port’s decline and is also why the port of Agde is now situated at Grau d’Agde. Note the mooring posts and rings fixed to the facades which bear witness to this past activity. Follow the quay (on the left) in front of the restaurants to the main square of the fishermen quarter, where the Goddess of the Sea, Amphitrite, reigns silently. Rue de la Poissonnerie and rue de la Fraternité recall the fishing trade and the ancient arcades of the shops can still be made out on the facades.

age

Cathédrale

Discovery paths

4

The port on the Canal du Midi and Agde’s round lock can be found on the edge of town, right by the D13 leading to Bessan.

 The D13 road that crosses the Canal separates the river port from Agde’s famous round lock. On the river port, two buildings stand as reminders of the golden age of the canal barge: the magnificent Hôtel de l’Administration du Canal (18th Century) and the now disused Chapel.

Bessan

Ecluse ronde

Port fluvial

Canal

du Midi

 The Agde lock is the only round lock on the canal.

Built in 1676 from Agde volcanic rock, it is a technical masterpiece, linking three different water levels and enabling boats turn in order to take any one of the three exits - to Toulouse, another to Agde and the sea and the third to the “Étang de Thau” along the river Hérault. Under the shade of the trees, follow the “Canalet”, the branch of the canal which leads to the river Hérault (Agde harbour), along the path which runs parallel to Raymond Pitet avenue.  Then, take the bridge leading into Belle Ile public park.

This wooded island is a 10 hectare haven of peace. Château Laurens and its neo-classic architecture is not open to the public. It is currently being restored notably because it possesses an exceptional “art nouveau” style interior decoration.

Parc de Belle Ile Hôtel de l’Administration du Canal

et Avenue R. Pit

Place Rue H ono Molière ré

Rue d e

cette la Pla

Rue de

Rue

Moliè

re

Ru

i

Page 6

Le Canalet

Statue C. Terrisse

Terr isse

au e bliqu Répu de la Rue

La P rom ena de

Rue

10:59

Agde is an ancient Greek trading post, founded in 540 BC. It was built using the volcanic rock from Mont St-Loup and is today a unique architectural site in the region and a maze of little streets where time stands still.

1,6 km

Place de la belle Agathoise

18/07/07

Château Laurens

Béziers

ult

éra

L’H

Cathédrale

. . . C A P I TA L . . . C A P I TA L . . . Travel through time with the Heritage Pass This is a wonderful way to discover the city of Agde, through its most important historic sites and monuments: guided tours through the historic heart of the city, Brescou Fort, the Musée Agathois (museum for crafts and traditions), the Musée de l’Ephèbe (museum for underwater archaeology), Saint-Etienne Cathedral and its tower, Saint-Sever church and the underground icehouse. The Pass is valid for three months, from 15 June to 15 September. It is on sale from Agde Tourist Office and from the museums for €12. A free pass is available for children under 8, accompanied by an adult.

The tourist office, situated on Place Molière, organises guided visits of the ancient town (tel. 04 67 94 29 68).

7

16p-120x210-BALADES-F-GB-D

Discovery

18/07/07

10:59

Page 8

5

paths

La Tamarissière Le Grau d'Agde 6

5

Le Cap d’

The banks of the Hérault river 9 km

N 11

La cité d’Agde

Le Grau d’Agde

 The port of Agde and its fish auction indicate the

 On the seafront, follow the

(reeds mainly) along the banks. Then return into Agde along the Cdt. Réveille quay, which affords an excellent picture postcard view of the town. The boat service between Grau d’Agde and La Tamarissière is open from 1st April to 30th September. At other times, you can return to Agde via the Notre-Dame to St-Martin road and the Rochelongue road.

La Tamarissière in the shade of the pines La Tamarissière is a 200 year-old pine wood planted by the sea.

1,5 km La cité d’Agde

 The pinewood can be reached from Rue du Comman-

 It crosses through the

dant Malet: when you get to the centre of La Tamarissière, turn right. The entrance to the wood is very close to this corner. Under the great pines you will find a leisure area and a pitch for playing boules.

wood, next to camp site Camping de La Tamarissière on the left and the “Étang Pla ge de du Clot” on the right which la Ta m disappears under the reed ar is siè re marshes. Pine needles and cones cover the ground, much to the delight of the squirrels.

let Cdt Ma Rue du

Quai T. Co rnu

e Roch

coastal path to the left. The landscaped areas in front of the holiday apartments make a sort of ‘nature reserve for pedestrians’, with nothing to spoil the view of the Mediterranean. The beach at Rochelongue merges into the Richelieu beach, as far as the entrance to the port. Out to sea, built on an outcrop of volcanic rock, Brescou Fort still guards the coast of Cap d’Agde.  Beyond the Caravelle car park (Hotel Capaô), the apartments give way to open spaces. At the sign saying “Plage Richelieu - accès 56” take the left-hand path which takes you round the apartments as far as the edge of the lagoon where beginners learn the ropes of windsurfing. From here, continue round the Aqualand water park (you’ll see the tops of its water chutes) and follow the Allée de Basse Terre, Allée de la Découverte and Allée de Bellefontaine. Then turn left (going past the landing pier of the Coche d’eau ferry) and cross the footbridge leading to the Ile des Loisirs.

elongue Plage

Aire de jeux

Ile des Loisirs

Riche lieu

Fort de Brescou

When you reach the sign that indicates the entrance to the “Ile”, leave the avenue and follow the path which leads into the copse. Then, take the Allée de La Grande Plage towards Richelieu beach. From the foot bridge there is a view of the lagoon to the right and the canal leading to the port on the left. Follow the alley up to the beach and turn right to return to the Mail de Rochelongue by the footpath.

. . . C A P I TA L . . . C A P I TA L . . .

lt

century during work to prevent the sanding up of the river Hérault and its estuary. Pines and Tamarisks were to hold the soil together and along with the jetties, stop the build up of sand. In 1894 the wood stretched over 48 hectares. La Tamarissière is named after this period in history. The footpath through the wood is easily found.

Plage d

Parking de la Caravelle

 After about 700m, the path arrives at

Hérau

 This wood was planted at the end of the XVIII

Jeux Parking

Lagon

Mail de Rochelongue

Challies sseur

Notre Dame du Grau

Aqualand Parking

u Pa

Hérault

 Rochelongue is the most recent extension to Cap d’Agde and the starting-point of this walk. The area is built around a central landscaped avenue, 40 m wide, inspired by Barcelona’s Ramblas, making life more agreeable for pedestrians and shoppers. It affords an exceptional view over the water to Brescou Fort.

ue d

La Tamarissière

2

This walk gives an excellent idea of Cap d’Agde’s style and atmosphere: fine sandy beaches, landscaped open areas, boutiques, foot and cycle path networks, leisure facilities…

n Ave

Chantiers, a traditional naval construction base. The cycle path enables a peaceful and secure visit. Where the bridge crosses the river, note the small chapel on the left. This is one of the 15 oratories which marked the pilgrim trail from Agde to Notre-Dame-du-Grau, an ancient sanctuary dedicated to the worship of the Virgin Mary since the VI century. The Agenouillade chapel which is located in a nearby pine forest, commemorates the legend of the miracle of the Virgin.

 from 1 to 2 hours

A stroll through Cap d’Agde from Rochelongue to Richelieu 4 km

 Leave Agde on the left bank: along the Quai des

6

7

7

As the midday heat fades into early evening explore, by bicycle, the scenery of the riverbanks which meander right up to the sea.

entrance to Grau d’Agde. Here, there is a view of the river estuary: the quaysides of Grau d’Agde and La Tamarissière, their respective lighthouses and the sea on the horizon. Use the boat service to cross the river (1,50€/person (one way), 0,50€/child, bicycle free) and enter La Tamarissiere. From there come back upstream towards Agde by the embankment road. Alluvial deposits have led to the development of rich aquatic vegetation

Discovery paths

La cité d'Agde

the sea front. The concrete buildings along the dunes are a sad reminder of the last war. From here there is a beautiful view of La Tamarissière (on the left) and further on, the lighthouses which indicate the river Hérault estuary. To return, either go back the same way or along the beach.

Visit Brescou Fort The Fort was built for defence in the 17th Century from plans drawn up by the military engineer Vauban, but became a state prison in the 18th Century. Visit the Fort and find out about its history: boat trips to the Fort are available from Cap d’Agde and Grau d’Agde. 8

9

16p-120x210-BALADES-F-GB-D

18/07/07

10:59

Page 10

Excursions

Excursions 8

Pézenas and the Hérault river valley

MILLAU

Montpellierle-Vieux

Abîme de Bramabiau

Anduze rault de l’Hé

Cambous St-MartindeLondres Pic St-Loup

Gorg

es Lodève

St-Guilhemle-Désert

Pont du Po Grotte de Clamouse Diable

MONTPELLIER

Val é

Lac du Salagou Le Caroux Bédarieux Cirque Gorges on ontde Mourèze Clermontgues d’Héric l’Hérault au aul Hérépian A Ancienne Abbaye Terroir deRoquebrun de Valmagne Hérault h. e Méditerranée de l’

Anc. O br de Abbaye Fontcaude BÉZIERS Oppidum d’Ensérune Ecluses de Fonséranes

Pézenas PPé éz as éézenas

AGDE DEE

Ba de BBassin Thau

 Hidden in an arid valley, the medieval village of Saint-

Guilhem-le-Désert is home to a superb abbey church in the southern style of early Romanesque architecture.

Ga r do n

u

Anc. Prieuré St-Michel-deGrandmont

Vézénobres

Gorg

Grotte des Demoiselles

Bouzigues

G

NÎMES Sommières Chau de Castries

Chau de Flaugergues Chau de la Mogère

Lattes Cathédrale de Maguelone

La Grande Motte

StGilles

 In contrast to these rugged hills, the Hérault plain spreads out serenely below Saint-Jean-de-Fos, welcoming travellers to a land of vineyards and olive groves. The picturesque villages that dot the plain are each worth a stop to taste not only their wine (of course!) but also the whole range of local Languedoc produce, of which they are justly proud.  At the heart of the vineyards stands Pézenas, which captivates the visitor with its overall architectural

appearance that has remained unchanged since the 17th Century. Its busy lanes and many craftsmen’s workshops, its grand town houses with splendid balconies or ground floor galleries like Italian loggias, are all reminders of its prosperous past.  Pézenas was declared a Royal City in 1261 when it was purchased by King Louis IX, and the fairs held here contributed greatly to its fame and fortune. In the 16th Century it became the regional capital, the seat of the Etats du Languedoc and residence of the Governors: first the Montmorencys, later Conti. During the many festivities, Molière wrote and presented several plays here with his company the Illustre Théâtre; he drew inspiration from the character of the town and its inhabitants.  Listed as a Ville d’art in 1950, Pézenas can be visited

by day or by night, as the craft shops stay open through the summer evenings on Wednesdays and Fridays; there are also guided or dramatised visits.

AiguesMortes Stes-Marie de-la-Me

SÈTE

LE CAP D’AGDE LE GRAU D’AGDE LA TAMARISSIÈRE

...CAPITAL... CAPITAL... CAPITAL... Savour the lifestyle of Hérault Méditerranée Come and enjoy the celebrated wines and seafood of Hérault Méditerranée: a range of highly individual wines cultivated on our basalt soil, unique to the Languedoc (vins de pays, varietal wines and the famous AOC Picpoul de Pinet), shellfish from the Thau lagoon, fish from the Gulf of Lions, as well as the sweet onions of Lézignan-la-Cèbe, figs and nougat from Nézignan-l’Evêque, specialities from Pézenas (petits pâtés - old fashioned mince pies and berlingots - a kind of sweet) and Pomerols chocolates. The lifestyle of Hérault Méditerranée combines sunshine, conviviality and a well-stocked table. 10

From its source on Mount Aigoual in the Cévennes, down to Agde and the Mediterranean, the Hérault River flows through a natural amphitheatre offering a wide range of landscapes. Along its banks there is always something for nature-lovers, fisherman and canoeists.

 The river winds its way through bleached garrigue and scented shrubs, carving deep gorges in the limestone hills that get narrower and narrower between Ganges and the Pont du Diable.

ALÈS

Sauve

Gorges de la Vis

Navacelles

bbaye vanès

Grotte de Co rni ch Trabuc Bambouseraie ed es Cév de Prafrance en Mt Aigoual nes

es d

Roquefort rzac -sur-Soulzon du La e s us La Ca Cirque de Couvertoirade

ONNE

173 km

 1/2 or full day

...CAPITAL... CAPITAL... CAPITAL... Itineraries for discovering the local produce Take the Route des Vignerons et des Pêcheurs (winegrowers and fishermen’s route) or the Circuit du terroir (local produce tour) and meet the practitioners of ancestral know-how who create the local specialities. You’ll also enjoy a trip that’s off the beaten track, in charming countryside bathed in sunlight: basalt ridges and plateaux, bauxite deposits, dry stone walls, stone-paved tracks, castrums(1), circulades(2) and vines stretching as far as the eye can see. The Art de vivre Hérault Méditerranée guidebook is available from the Tourist Office. (1) (2)

Castrum: a fortified village Circulade: a circular village

11

16p-120x210-BALADES-F-GB-D

18/07/07

10:59

Page 12

10 9

 1/2 or full day

Excursions

Excursions Sète and the Pays de Thau

The pays of Béziers

Nature is most varied between the sea and the mountains. Most of the villages, full of charm and history, are authentic antique harbours of the Mediterranean.

We suggest two routes for discovering Béziers, its surroundings and the borders of the Upper-Languedoc: by following either the Canal du Midi or the Orb Valley.

85 km

Cirque de Mourèze

Roquebrun 2

Anc. Abbaye de Fontcaude

Villages des Coteaux du BasLanguedoc

D909

St-Pons-de-Th.

N1 1

Pont

BÉZIERS

du Diable

Clermont-l’Hérault Ancienne Abbaye de Valmagne

Lattes

A9

Cathédrale de Maguelone

Bouzigues

Pézenas N9

Oppidum d’Ensérune Ecluses de Fonséranes

2

Bédarieux

Lac du Salagou

MONTPELLIER

N11

Olargues

Gorges d’Héric

D35

 The first part of the trail is along

Le Caroux

Bassin de Thau

SÈTE

Départ LE CAP D’AGDE

NARBONNE

The Orb Valley

The 9 locks, the canal bridge

The Héric gorges, Roquebrun 135 km

 Mixing leisure deep in nature and cultural discovery,

 Through the winding gorges of the Orb, the road conti-

this itinerary along the canal is dotted with famous sites, serene landscapes of the Languedoc countryside and little river ports.

nues across a contrasting variety of scenery: vineyards and orchards on the slopes, lush alluvial valleys, the Réals limestone canyon, the meandering Vieussan river, the exotic flora of Roquebrun’s Mediterranean garden... up to the foot of the Haut-Languedoc mountains.

 Béziers canal bridge, the 9 locks at Fonséranes,

the antique “oppidum” at Ensérune and its viewpoint over the dried lake of Montady, the charming port of Poilhes and finally Béziers, town of wine, rugby, bulls, which also boasts a magnificent architectural heritage, notably along “Allées P. Riquet” (inventor of the Canal du Midi) and along the “Plateau des Poètes”.

 Suggested stopovers: Olargues, the Héric gorges,

Le Caroux, Lamalou-les-Bains, Hérépian (the oldest bell foundry in France).  Return to Béziers and Agde by the shale trail (“route des schistes”), the garden of the reputed Faugères wines.  Take the opportunity during this excursion to prepare

a gourmet evening: the region’s fruity wines go extremely well with the cold meats and game from the Haut-Languedoc.

12

Abbaye de Valmagne

Valmagne abbey, from Mèze go towards Villeveyrac. This Cistercian abbey has an imposing church inspired by gothic cathedrals of northern France.  Between Mèze and Bouzigues, not

A9

Marseillan N112

far from the RN113, the “Villa Loupian” transports us back to the Antiquity. The museum of this Gallo-Roman site will remind of the agricultural domain which was transformed at the end of the Antiquity into a sumptuous villa with the most beautiful mosaic floors. Poussan and on to Gigean on the D119, which is the entry point to the Gardiole region with ancient remains such as “St-Felix-de-Montceau” abbey on the “stone trail” (a 2km sign posted circuit: “le sentier de la pierre”). Cross the forests on the N113 and D114 towards Vic-laGardiole and Frontignan: from here there are magnificent views over the lakes, vineyards, the sea and the wooded region of Aresquiers. Frontignan is world famous for its Muscat wine which holds the oldest AOC label in France.  After this, Sète, the town of Paul Valéry and

Georges Brassens. This town’s irresistible charm springs from its situation between the slopes of Mont St-Clair and the lively canals of the fishing port. It is a major commercial port, the 2nd largest French port on the Mediterranean. Mont St-Clair offers a splendid panoramic viewpoint. Return to Agde along the coast road on the Onglous isthmus.

e ed agn ont

Gigean

Mèze ha eT gd

iole

ard

la G

D62

M

Loupian

 To discover the exceptional

 After Bouzigues, follow the N113 and the D2 to

The Canal du Midi 80 km

the shores of the “Étang de Thau”: the fishing villages of Marseillan and Mèze, the oyster and mussel farms and the backdrop of the vineyards which cover the alluvial plain.

u

13 N1

Abbaye de St-Félix de Montceau

Sète

Vic la Gardiole

Frontignan

n

Eta

Départ LE CAP D’AGDE

. . . C A P I TA L . . . C A P I TA L . . . Get away from it all in the fascinating world of the Canal du Midi During the reign of Louis XIV, the ancient dream of joining the Atlantic to the Mediterranean with a canal became reality thanks to the monumental genius and energy of a Farmer General for the Salt Tax: Pierre-Paul Riquet (1604 1680), who devoted his life and fortune to this great feat of civil engineering. It took fifteen years (from 1666 to 1681) to construct the 240 km of canal and its 328 structures. Between Toulouse and Sète it passes through two regions: Midi-Pyrénées and LanguedocRoussillon. It carried freight for nearly 200 years and is the oldest canal in Europe still operating, though today only tourists enjoy it. In December 1996 UNESCO declared the canal one of the 469 World Heritage sites. Agde is the last stop before the Thau lagoon and Sète. PierrePaul Riquet designed a unique structure here: the only round lock on the canal. Its basin was enlarged in the 19th century.

13

16p-120x210-BALADES-F-GB-D

18/07/07

10:59

Page 14

Excursions

Excursions Ste-Enimie

N

20 km

“The Versailles of the Languedoc”, the old town is a model of XVI, XVII and XVIII century architecture and a flourishing artistic centre.

• Minerve

• Cirque de Mourèze

• Narbonne

50 km

A crossroads town with a merchant tradition, but also a cultural town to visit: Domitian Way, Roman warehouses, Roman frescoes and mosaics, the Archbishops’ palace, the cathedral...

• Oppidum d’Ensérune

39 km

An elevated site (120m) marked by Ibero-Greek, Celtic and Roman colonies. Archaeology museum. View over the dried Montady lake.

• Béziers

24 km

A wine centre in the heart of the Faugères, St.Chinian, Minervois, La Clape, “Côteaux du Languedoc”... vineyards. The ancient city is perched on a rocky outcrop above the Orb river and is famous for its central boulevard “Allées P.Riquet” and the Feria on 15th August.

14

43 km

10

A vast dolomitic area criss-crossed by paths for walks in the heart of the fantastic world of imaginary giants (around 300 hectares).

Lodève

40 km

An artificial lake where the red soil contrasts with the blues of the water and the sky. Windsurfing, fishing, mountain biking, walking...

• Cirque de Navacelles

Canal

A majestic and deep canyon dug by an ancient meander of the river Vis, where Navacelles village nestles. The site is classified as a natural monument.

• Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert

58 km

A medieval village built in an arid valley at the foot of the ancient Gellone Abbey (XI century), one of the principal stopping points for the Compostelle pilgrimage, where the church still stands - a masterpiece of early Roman art in the area.

• Gorges de l’Hérault

du

65 km

Upstream of St-Guilhem-le-Désert, the river has cut a deep canyon into the limestone, creating a succession of gorges and giant potholes. The trip downstream by canoe leads to the Pont du Diable.

Cambous St-MartindeLondres Pic St-Loup

Pont du Grotte de Clamouse Diable

Pont du Gard

AVIGNO

NÎMES Beaucaire

Sommières Chau de Castries

Tarascon

StGilles

ARLES

LE GRAU D’AGDE LA TAMARISSIÈRE

Anc. Abbaye de Lagrasse

NARBONNE Anc. Abbaye de Fontfroide

s r e Châteaux b i è Cathares C o r

Gruissan

MER MÉDITERRANÉE

Réserve Africaine de Sigean Leucate

• Montpellier 138 km

St-Guilhemle-Désert

Uzès

Ga r do n

Grotte Sauve des Demoiselles

MONTPELLIER La Salvetat Le Caroux Lac du Salagou Chau de Flaugergues PARC PARC NATUREL -sur-Agout Gorges Bédarieux Cirque Chau de la Mogère AiguesNATUREL Clermontde Mourèze RÉGIONAL d’Héric Olargues Mortes l’Hérault RÉGIONAL Hérépian DU HAUT-LANGUEDOC Lattes Villages Ancienne Abbaye La Grande DE CAMARGUE St-Pons-deRoquebrun des Coteaux de Valmagne Motte Stes-MariesGrotte de la Devèze Th. e Cathédrale du Basde-la-Mer de Maguelone Languedoc Bouzigues Anc. Montagne Noire Pézenas O br de Abbaye SÈTE Bassin de Gouffre de Cabrespine Minerve Fontcaude BÉZIERS Thau Oppidum Grotte de Limousis AGDE Caunes-Minervois d’Ensérune Ecluses de LE CAP D’AGDE CARCASSONNE Fonsérannes Mid

Limoux

• Lac du Salagou

Gorges de la Vis

es Anc. Prieuré St-Michel-deGrandmont

20 km

i

70 km

Anc. Abbaye de Sylvanès 0

Vézénobres

Gorg

Anduze

de l’

145,000 hectares of forests (fir, beech, chestnut, oak...), heather moors, lakes, mountain villages, granite chaos, wild animals such as big horn sheep, birds of prey...

Navacelles

ALÈS

Val é

• The regional nature reserve of Haut Languedoc Approx. 75 km • Pézenas

A spectacularly situated Cathar town, wedged into the Cesse river valley accessible via impressive natural bridges. Gallo-Roman Potters’ Museum at Sallèles d’Aude. Religious architecture at Rieux-Minervois and CaunesMinervois.

Roquefort ac -sur-Soulzon u Larz e d u s s La a C Cirque de Couvertoirade

Approx. 45 km

The Orb is an ideal river for canoeing all year round; there are sections that are ideal for beginners or specialists with the added bonus of magnificent Mediterranean scenery. The Heric gorges in the Espinouse mountains attract nature lovers, climbers, walkers and bathers.

Montpellierrges d Gole-Vieux e la JonteAbîme de Bramabiau

Chartreuse de Valbonne

Grotte de Co rni ch Trabuc Bambouseraie ed es Cév de Prafrance en Mt Aigoual nes

Gorg

This is the largest fortress in Europe, with 2 concentric enclosures: 3 km of ramparts, 52 towers, fortified doors... A synthesis of military architecture from Roman times to Louis XIII.

MILLAU

Florac

PARC NATIONAL DES CÉVENNES

u

107 km

• The Orb Valley and Heric Gorges

S

Castelbouc

du Tarn

es d

• The medieval City of Carcassonne

Gor Aven Armand

rault de l’Hé

Places to stop when driving through the Languedoc

ges

11

E

O

 1/2 or full day

55 km

The capital of Languedoc-Roussillon, famous since the middle ages for its university of medicine. The town boasts bustling picturesque pedestrian streets, theatrical courtyards, a wealth of XVII and XVIII century town mansions and the lively "Place de la Comédie" in the centre and its esplanade, the architectural treasures of rue Foch, the Arc de Triomphe, the Peyrou gardens, museums, the botanical garden...

• La Camargue Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

110 km

Saintes-Marie lies in the heart of the Camargue, a marshy area in the Rhone delta and a vast home to a fantastic variety of flora and fauna, the symbols of which are the pink flamingo and the Camargue horses. Saintes-Maries is an important pilgrimage site for the venerated relics of its fortified church.

• Aigues-Mortes

79 km

A XIII century fortified town, founded by St-Louis as a departure point for the crusades.

• Nîmes and the Pont du Gard Approx. 100 km Half Languedoc, half Provence, a town with a tradition of bull-fighting, Nîmes has an exceptional heritage: “Maison-Carrée”, the Arena, La Fontaine gardens... The Pont du Gard is an aqueduct designed to supply water to Nîmes: a masterpiece of Roman architecture and engineering. 3 rows of arches, 275m long, 48.77m high.

• And the grottos Clamouse, les Demoiselles, la Devèze, Labeil, aven des Lauriers, Cabrespine...

15