Les Matelles walks

From Les Matelles, a pretty medieval village, this circuit provides access to the path on the crest of a ridge. The Tour de Vias (watchtower) was once built on this promontory. It offers beautiful views of Pic Saint-Loup, the village and the former convent of Notre-Dame-des-Champs before descending towards the Romanesque bridge of Deux Serres, which crosses the Lirou. Afterwards, the trail faces Notre-Dame-des-Champs and returns to the village, winding through a forest of pine, juniper and holm oak trees. This hike may be closed depending on the fire risk. Remember to check the map.

This walk takes you through the pretty village of Les Matelles and past two Romanesque bridges. It winds its way through vineyards and pine forests. Best avoided in summer.

A short hike, with a little difficulty on a very stony path going up and down between points (3) and (5). The rest of the route is very pleasant, ending with a visit to the small village of Saint-Jean-de-Cuculles.

This hike is best done on a sunny afternoon, so that you can contemplate the view from the summit, which can be truly breathtaking if the air is dry. This hike may be prohibited depending on the level of fire risk. Please consult the map.

There are several very interesting walks in the Pic Saint-Loup area near Montpellier, with distant views of the Cévennes to the north and the sea to the south.

A pleasant loop with no real difficulties, starting from Cazevieille and west of Pic Saint Loup. Most of the route is in the woods, making it pleasant even in summer. Take into account the possible paths between (1) and (2) as well as the note at (6).

Pic-Saint-Loup, the legendary peak in the Montpellier hinterland. Here, I suggest approaching it from the east via Saint-Mathieu-de-Tréviers. This shaded, less frequented route through the woods takes you past the ruined castle of Montferrand. At the summit, you can enjoy views of the Alps, the Pyrenees, Mont Ventoux, the Cévennes and the Mediterranean.

Pic Saint-Loup is a classic spot with a superb panorama: on one side, the view stretches as far as Mont Aigoual, which rises above the Cévennes, and on the other, the plain stretches to the blue Mediterranean. Starting from Saint-Mathieu-de-Tréviers, this route begins in the opposite direction, allowing you to enjoy more peace and quiet and follow the sun's path. Some sections are vertiginous, see reviews

A very pleasant hike starting from Saint-Mathieu-de-Tréviers, which will take you along the picturesque Lac de Cécélés while offering magnificent panoramic views of the two local giants, Pic Saint-Loup and Hortus.The hike is very accessible but there are a few steep sections.

A beautiful hike with no difficulty except for the distance, with superb views of the Hortus, the Pic Saint-Loup and, above all, Lac de Cécélés at the start. The hike is classified as moderate because of the first descent into the forest, or rather into a stream bed, followed by a short climb after the point (6).

From the Roussières departmental estate to the prehistoric village of Cambous, this route takes you on a journey of discovery through Neolithic sites (tombs, dolmens, village) and the Termenou fountain, following ancient drovers' roads (paths used by sheep during transhumance). Crossing varied landscapes, ridges, undergrowth and meadows where asphodels abound in April, this hike also offers magnificent panoramic views of the Pic Saint-Loup, the Hortus and the Cévennes. This hike may be closed depending on the fire risk. Remember to check the map.

Starting from this beautiful route, you will discover the surprising Source de l'Avy along the banks of the Mosson. You will then reach the panoramic viewpoint of the Croix de Guillery. After crossing the old agricultural and wine-growing plain, the circuit will take you along the path once used by salt caravans to the top of the partially wooded rocky plateaus, where you can admire beautiful panoramic views of the Pic Saint-Loup and the surrounding mountains.

A visit to the Grand Devès site from Guzargues. This hike will take you around Serre Rond, a hill combining heath and history, which was home to a German observation post from 1942 to 1944, the remains of which can still be seen today. Along the way, you will find the grave of the tracking dog Youki. You will then continue on your way towards Montaud and the source of the Cadoule before returning to your starting point.

This short hike will take you to a remarkable site off the beaten track. From the charming Saint-Étienne de Gabriac chapel, the trail takes you to the banks of the Lamalou before reaching impressive strata of white limestone. These very thick strata have staggered ridges and form a huge staircase, hence the name of the site. This hike must be done in sunny weather to admire the dazzling whiteness of these rocks.

A beautiful hike with views from above, running along the ridges of the causse that overlooks Valflaunès and Lauret. There are beautiful views to the east and south throughout the circuit over the villages of the wine-growing plain and the Pic Saint Loup vineyards. In the distance, the hills fade into a beautiful shade of blue.