Viols-en-Laval walks

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.

A wild and extremely demanding alpine route to the summit of Pic Saint-Loup. This route via the West Ridge is intended exclusively for experienced hikers. Warning: those prone to vertigo must absolutely refrain from attempting this. A complete lack of markings, numerous rock-climbing sections on vertical faces and significant exposure to the void characterise this ascent. The return is via the normal route.

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).

In this heath area, the Lamalou, a small tributary of the Hérault, has carved out a narrow canyon bordered in places by high cliffs. The bed of this temporary watercourse, the focal point of your hike, hides wonders, the highlight of which is a superb natural arch. Although this watercourse is dry for much of the year, as soon as the first rains fall, it can become a veritable torrent: do not cross it when the water is high. Located in the heart of the Gorges de l'Hérault, a listed site with the Grand Site de France label, and two Natura 2000 sites, the Ravin des Arcs is recognised for its high environmental and landscape value. It is home to several endangered species. It is forbidden to leave the marked trail from 15 January to 30 June: this sensitive natural site is protected by a prefectural decree for the protection of biotopes.

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 very beautiful walk, fairly short but quite strenuous. Please note that some sections are steep and are not recommended for those prone to vertigo.

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.

A getaway to discover unusual places, notably the Rocher de Pampelune and its oppidum, as well as the Dolmen A at Mas Reynard. These iconic sites transport us to a distant past, allowing us to discover them. Some effort will be required to reach them, involving crossing paths, trails, streams, passages through undergrowth and coppice, and a few technical sections suitable for all. There are plenty of surprises in store for those who take the time to explore.

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 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.

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.

Randonnée au tracé très complexe nécessitant l'utilisation d'un GPS. La carte IGN au 1/25000 n'est pas suffisante. En contrepartie, vous découvrirez de nombreux petits sentiers non balisés et peu fréquentés, à l'écart des pistes et en sous-bois. Vous atteindrez la source du Lez, secteur bien aménagé pouvant faire l'objet d'une pause et reviendrez vers le parking, toujours par des chemins isolés.

In the Cardonille massif, south of Ganges, this lovely hike offers beautiful panoramic views of the Cévennes, Mont Aigoual and the Thaurac plateau with its Grotte des Demoiselles. It then approaches the banks of the Hérault via shaded paths and trails, offering a real haven of coolness in the summer. The circuit, which sometimes runs along a balcony, offers beautiful views of the river and its meanders before reaching the picturesque Moulin de Clauzel.

This circular route around the Cirque de la Séranne offers magnificent views of the villages of Pégairolles and Saint-Jean-de-Buèges. It can be walked in either direction. The entire route is signposted and the paths are well maintained.

From the beautiful village of Saint-Jean-de-Buèges, set off to explore the Séranne plateau along paths that are paved with slanting stones in places. After passing through Peyre Martine and the Cirque de la Séranne, the trail takes you back to Pégairolles-de-Buèges where you will discover the source of the Buèges.

Take a short tour of the Gorges de la Buèges and, in summer, enjoy this beautiful clear river to cool off.

A walk downstream along the banks of the Buèges is a bucolic, relaxing route that will delight the uninitiated. Blend into the landscape where nature, in season, displays its thousand colours and seasonal scents, offering a changing and picturesque landscape in all its generosity. The area is cool and the silent, blue-coloured river is ideal for swimming. Pass through the medieval village of Saint-Jean-de-Buèges, which you can visit if you wish.

This is a magnificent hike in the hills above Saint-Jean-de-Buèges and its valley. The village is worth exploring on the way back. The Buèges valley is well worth a visit. We enjoyed repeating this hike in January 2025. Cold weather but bright sunshine. No notable changes except for a new muddy patch at point 6 and the absence of the pierced rock at point 5. The hike is almost entirely on a balcony, so you'll be in the sun.

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.