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Montpellier, a historic city
in the south of France, is full of cultural and natural treasures to discover. Situated between the sea and the mountains, it offers a wide variety of landscapes, from fine sandy beaches to green hills. Walking through the cobbled streets of the historic centre, you will discover many architectural sites, such as Gothic cathedrals, 18th-century town houses and elegant public squares. In addition,
the area around Montpellier is full of beautiful natural areas suitable for hiking, with panoramic views of the sea and mountains. In this article, we offer a
selection of walks around Montpellier, as well as a walking tour
through the historic centre of the city.
- Les Gorges de l'Hérault : located about 40km northwest of Montpellier, the Gorges de l'Hérault offer spectacular views of the Hérault River and the surrounding countryside. There are several hiking trails in the area, including the Baume trail, which will take you to a beautiful waterfall. You can get there by car by following the A750 motorway towards Gignac. Take exit 58 and follow the signs to the Gorges de l'Hérault. There are also buses from Montpellier
- Le Pic Saint-Loup : located about 25km north of Montpellier, the Pic Saint-Loup is an iconic mountain in the region. There are several hiking trails leading to the summit, including the Hortus trail which offers spectacular views of the region. You can get there by car by following the D986 road towards Saint-Martin-de-Londres. There are several car parks at the foot of the Pic Saint-Loup where you can park. There are also buses from Montpellier to the Pic Saint-Loup
- La Camargue : located about 10 km from Montpellier, the Camargue is a unique natural area known for its wild horses, flamingos, bulls and vast salt marshes. There are several hiking trails in the area, including the Pointe de l'Espiguette trail which leads to a beautiful secluded beach. You can get there by car by following the A9 motorway towards Nîmes, then taking exit 26 towards Lunel. Follow the signs to the Camargue. There are also buses from Montpellier to the Camargue.
- La Garrigue : Located just east of Montpellier, the Garrigue is an area of hills and forests dotted with picturesque villages. There are several hiking trails in the area, including the Chapelle de Notre-Dame de Suc trail which offers spectacular views of the city of Montpellier. You can get there by car by following the D986 road towards Castries. There are several car parks in the area where you can park. There are also buses from Montpellier to this destination
- Le Sentier du Littoral :This is a coastal footpath that runs along the Mediterranean Sea, offering panoramic views of the sea and the coast. This walk will take you to the cathedral of the sea in Villeneuve les Maguelone. You can start the walk at the port of Palavas-les-Flots, about 10 km from Montpellier. You can get there very easily by bus, bike or car.
there are several walking tours you can take to discover its many historical and cultural sites.
- Place de la Comédie : Start your walk on the Place de la Comédie, the heart of the city. Admire the large esplanade lined with cafés and shops, as well as the Fontaine des Trois Grâces.
- The Corum : Head west of the square to see the Corum, a conference and concert complex. There is a lovely park around the Corum where you can take a walk.
- St Peter's Cathedral : Continue into the old town to reach St Peter's Cathedral, a jewel of Gothic architecture built in the 14th century. The interior of the cathedral is magnificent if you have the opportunity to enter it
- Place Royale du Peyrou : Continue your walk under the triumphal arch to reach the Place Royale du Peyrou, a public space created during the reign of Louis XIV. Admire the equestrian statue of the king and the panoramic view over the city.When it is very sunny you can see all the way to the sea. The sunset is a very popular time for many people to meet
- The Jardin des Plantes : A little further down, you take a few steps to reach the Jardin des Plantes, the oldest botanical garden in France. There are thousands of species of plants to see, it's beautiful and it smells good! Often when it's cold the garden keeps a certain coolness.
- Place de la Canourgue : Finish your walk on the Place de la Canourgue, a beautiful place with 18th century mansions.
You will find many small cafés and restaurants to refresh yourself. Also a hotel and gastronomic restaurant "le jardin des sens" where you can discover a high quality local cuisine