wild and preserved

A world of rocky terrain, rushing waters, and dazzling light, the Gorges de l'Hérault, a designated Grand Site de France, is a mosaic of magnificent and unspoiled landscapes, perfect for wonder and rejuvenation. Flowing down from the Cévennes mountains, the Hérault River has carved wild gorges, both verdant and mineral, into the La Séranne massif, near the Pic Saint-Loup. At the foot of the Languedoc mountains, it suddenly opens onto a vast plain at the Pont du Diable (Devil's Bridge), where vineyards and olive groves flourish.

The Hérault Gorges can be explored throughout the year: in spring for its fauna and flora along the banks and on the heights of Thaurac, in summer for canoeing, climbing and via ferrata, in autumn for its colours and sunsets, in winter for the calm of the river…

Thomas, communications officer

Iconic landscapes

Characterized by its diverse landscapes and rich historical and cultural heritage, the Hérault Gorges are best explored by following the river and its villages. To the north, you'll find Laroque and its medieval village, the Thaurac Gorge, a favorite spot for canoeing and climbing, and Saint-Étienne-d'Issensac, renowned for its exceptional swimming in summer and its peaceful setting year-round, with its bridge and chapel. Brissac, famous for its medieval castle and surrounding vineyards, also adds to the charm of these gorges.

Further south, the Ravin des Arcs, a spectacular canyon with steep limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters below, offers a unique hiking experience for adventurous visitors. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, a medieval village listed among the most beautiful villages in France, is known for its charming architecture and rich historical heritage and welcomes visitors year-round. Finally, before flowing into the Hérault plains, the Pont du Diable (Devil's Bridge) is considered a masterpiece of medieval architecture, with its single arch spanning the Hérault River, its sloping pillars, and its stone construction perfectly integrated into the surrounding landscape.

Issensac BridgeOlive October
Canoeing in the Hérault GorgesOlive October
Saint-Guilhem-le-DésertOlive October
  • Sam Bie

Laroque

Located at the mouth of the Thaurac massif, Laroque is a charming historic village with its medieval castle and cobbled streets. Outdoor activities include climbing, hiking, and canoeing/kayaking, as well as swimming in the natural pools of the Hérault River. The surrounding landscape offers breathtaking views of limestone cliffs and Mediterranean forests. Local riverside restaurants welcome visitors during the summer season.

Laroque is an ideal place for nature and history lovers, who can recharge and enjoy the beauty of the region.

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Saint Étienne d'Issensac

The chapel of Saint-Etienne d'Issensac, first mentioned in 1080, forms a peaceful and inspiring ensemble with the remains of the priory and the cemetery. Nearby, the medieval bridge of Saint-Etienne d'Issensac spans the Hérault River and once allowed pilgrims to cross to Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, a stop on the Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago). Built with a humpbacked arch, it retains three of its original five arches.

One of the highlights of Saint Etienne d'Issensac is undoubtedly its swimming area, located below the bridge. The crystal-clear, cool water of the Hérault River is ideal for swimming, cooling off, or picnicking on the banks. The swimming area is supervised during July and August.

Visitors can also stroll along the region's hiking trails to discover the natural wonders of the Hérault Gorges.

Saint Etienne d'Issensac is a perfect place to relax for those looking to recharge in a preserved natural environment.

St. Etienne IssensacOlive October
St. Etienne IssensacOlive October

Brissac

At the foot of the Séranne, on the northern part of the Grand Site de France of the Gorges de l'Hérault, Brissac is renowned in the region for being an island of greenery in the middle of the garrigue.

Its park with majestic trees, crossed by the Avèze river, as well as its castle and its Notre-Dame du Suc sanctuary, make it a peaceful and pleasant village to discover.

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Saint Guilhem the Desert

Located in the heart of the Grand Site de France, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a medieval village listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. Its Romanesque Gellone Abbey and Devil's Bridge are iconic landmarks. Rich in cultural events, local crafts, and outdoor activities, it offers a unique experience for visitors seeking history, beauty, and culture.

Gellone Abbey is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and boasts numerous religious works of art, such as frescoes, sculptures, and magnificent capitals. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert was an important pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages, welcoming travelers from all over Europe who sought the protection and blessing of Saint Guilhem.

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Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Hérault GorgesEric Brendle
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Hérault GorgesEric Brendle
ravine of the arches in the Gorges of the HéraultOlive October

The Ravine of the Arches

The Ravin des Arcs, a 10km long canyon near Saint Martin de Londres, attracts many visitors during the warmer months. Natural arches sculpted by the emerald waters of the Lamalou, a tributary of the Hérault river, eroded rocks into giant potholes, waterfalls and natural bridges.

A 4km loop trail allows you to discover this unique place. Hidden within the bed of this seasonal stream, the central point of your hike, are wonders, the highlight of which is a magnificent natural arch. While this stream is dry for much of the year, it can become a raging torrent with the first rains.

The Ravin des Arcs is recognized for its high environmental and landscape value. It is home to several endangered species.

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Great site of France

A place of wonder and rejuvenation, the Grand Site de France of the Gorges de l'Hérault is a mosaic of landscapes: plateaus and hills covered with garrigue and forests, a vast fertile plain flooded with sun, a kingdom of wine and olives, and underground landscapes of caves.

When the label was renewed in 2018, the Grand Site de France area was expanded to 20,000 hectares and 10 municipalities, spread across 3 inter-municipal communities. In addition, 5 municipalities are part of an associated area.

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thauracOlive October

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