Discovering the Gardiole Massif and Its Treasures
Between Montpellier and Sète, the Gardiole Massif stretches over 5,000 hectares along the Mediterranean Sea, offering hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts an exceptional panorama over the Thau basin and the entire coastline. Leave the comfort of your accommodation at the campsite in Herault, in Vic-la-Gardiole, put on your sneakers, and set off to explore these remarkable sites.
The gardiole massif, a natural site for walkers
A protected site since 1980, the Gardiole Massif is a limestone mountain that is home to 700 plant species and numerous bird species. On foot, horseback, or mountain bike, many trails allow you to traverse the massif and discover all the beauties of this natural setting.
For experienced mountain bikers, the circuit starting from Frontignan offers some very steep climbs on dirt and stone trails. Once at the top of the massif, the view of the Ingril and the villages will reward all your efforts.
On foot, there are circuits of different difficulties to approach the massif, from Vic-la-Gardiole, a stone's throw from the campsite, but also from Frontignan, Gigean, or Balaruc-les-Bains. Choose according to your level and that of your companions.
Discovering the remains on the gardiole massif
A must-see on the Gardiole Massif, the Saint-Félix-de-Monceau abbey deserves a visit. The remains dating from the 11th century are being restored to highlight a Gothic abbey, a Romanesque chapel, and ruins of cloister buildings. Volunteers have recreated the monastic gardens with many medicinal plants to bring this historical monument back to life.
Located at the summit of Madeleine, the Saint-Baudile chapel is the small remainder of a medieval priory. Originally abandoned and then vandalized, the chapel no longer has walls, but the nave and apse have been restored. The site hosts a panoramic table inviting you to discover the Montpellier plain, the eastern coast of the department, and the foothills, the Mourre Massif, and the Pic Saint-Loup.
Back at the campsite, you will keep magnificent images of the Gardiole Massif in memory, and you will certainly appreciate dipping your tired legs into the pool water.
