The Pic Saint-Loup, one of France's best hiking spots

Just 25km north of Montpellier, the Pic Saint-Loup attracts many tourists and residents of the Hérault region. Some Montpellier residents even go there several times a year to enjoy the different landscapes every season. 4 years ago, a number of long-distance hiking trails were created. Ranging in length from 49 to 73 kilometres, they enable you to explore the surrounding area over several days. Choose from a tour of the villages on the Pic, a tour from London to the Buèges, a tour from the vineyards to the causse, or a tour from the Séranne to the Hérault gorges, and you'll be spoilt for choice of mountains, lakes, countryside, vineyards and medieval villages. Along the way, you'll find gîtes, campsites and bed and breakfasts where you can spend the night.

Hikers know that the Pic Saint-Loup is THE best place to admire the sunrise or sunset in the Hérault. It's not uncommon to see hikers arriving at the crack of dawn so as not to miss a single moment. Some even sleep in the neighbouring village so as to be in time for the show. It's a different atmosphere in the evening, when the orange-coloured backdrop is just as beautiful.

The path is rocky, so you'll have to climb a bit and keep your hands free (this is not the time to take a selfie).

There are shady spots with unobstructed views where you can take a break and have a few photo opportunities! At the top, enjoy the 360-degree view over the vineyards, plains and coastline. This 5km round trip mini hike takes around 2 hours and starts in Cazevieille.

There are many vineyards around the Pic Saint-Loup. One of the most popular experiences is a hike to the summit, followed by a visit to the vineyards and wine tasting (in moderation, of course). The Œnorando de l'Hérault are signposted trails where you can choose this experience.

These itineraries, unique in France, take you through the vineyards of the AOC Languedoc-Grès de Montpellier and AOP Pic Saint-Loup appellations. It's easy to see why this is France's favourite GR!

La Guinguette des Amoureux: an idyllic spot on the shores of Lake Cécélès and its turquoise waters. It's the ideal place for lunch, a snack, dinner or just a drink. The produce is fresh and of the highest quality, and the menu focuses on fish. A place not to be missed!

⭐ Les Lodges du Pic

Les Lodges du Pic offer a taste of the nature that embellishes the area around Montpellier. Located in the heart of a vineyard estate these lodges offer total comfort and intense calm. Each has a terrace and a view over the vineyards.

🕑 Length of walk: 2 hours

🚩 Allow 6 km round trip and 360m ascent

🥾 Remember to bring footwear suitable for hiking and avoid the path when it rains.

🚗 Parking at Pic Saint-Loup There is a car park just outside the village of Cazevieille.