Montarnaud walks

Vailhauquès, surrounded by its ruins, is an iconic place where the village, marked by its past and looking towards its future, proudly embraces its history. Discover unusual and surprising places, notably its dolmens on a north-west dial, which will spark the curiosity of history buffs.

Hiking on tracks and trails. This outing, sometimes in the undergrowth, sometimes under the pines, does not present any particular difficulty for occasional hikers. In good weather, there are beautiful views from Puech Bartelié or over the Séranne.

A pleasant route on trails that are rarely used in winter: a blue lake at the bottom of an old red bauxite quarry, a hermitage lost in the heart of the forest and a panoramic view from the top of the Puech Bartelié antenna.

The route consists of two circular paths of roughly the same distance. You can start on the east or west side, as you can leave your picnic in the cars if you do one circular path before midday.

This leisurely stroll offers superb views of the village and the Montpellier area, the sea, the city and the hinterland (Pic Saint-Loup).

A hike north of Montpellier through vineyards and fig trees, enhanced by a visit to Vignogoul Abbey.

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.

Murviel-Lès-Montpellier, a small village nestled in the heart of the vine-covered hillsides, steeped in memories and history. For hikers and visitors in search of the past, nature lovers and adventure seekers, this is a place to discover in order to better face the future.

Part of the hike is unmarked, following an old railway line and then tracks or paths. The return journey takes you through beautiful wild valleys, along a dry stream. Technically, the hike is not difficult. However, given the multitude of crossroads, a GPS is essential. Not recommended for novice hikers.

To explore the area around Lavérune, take the small tarmac or stone paths, as well as the trails that cross the Truc Pela woods. The hike is easy overall, but requires a little attention in the woods, or even a GPS.

Reach the banks of the Hérault from Puéchabon. There are various routes, but not from this village with its hidden mysteries. The area you will be crossing will surprise the novice. Discover the flora and fauna, which has many surprises in store. Swimming is possible on the Hérault river. Everyone will be enlightened in their own way and will take away memories that may reinforce their choices and visions. Nature offers many surprises for those who are willing to linger.

Starting from the beautiful medieval village of Cournonterral, this loop trail runs through heathland and plunges into the small gorges of Coulazou.

(Warning) Part of the route is closed by municipal order. See comments posted on 15 February and 12 May 2025. From the Montcalmès plateau, near Puéchabon, you can see the exit of the Hérault gorges with a breathtaking view of the legendary village of Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert. This small plateau, once grazed by sheep, is home to some beautiful sheepfolds, some of which have been abandoned. Below, the Saint-Sylvestre-des Brousses chapel is worth a visit, as is the famous Pont du Diable (Devil's Bridge).

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.

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.