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Visiting the area around Montpellier: walks less than an hour away that are worth the detour

A stay in Montpellier is already a chance to enjoy a break rich in discoveries. But just a few kilometers outside the city , you'll find landscapes and villages that each tell their own story, revealing the history and soul of the region. From the Hôtel des Arts , right in the heart of Montpellier, these getaways are easily accessible. Here are a few that deserve a place on your itinerary.

Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert: a medieval gem nestled in the gorges

Less than 45 minutes away by car, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert feels like a timeless interlude. Nestled in the heart of the Hérault gorges, the village impresses with its serenity. Its cobbled streets, its golden facades weathered by centuries, and the silhouette of Gellone Abbey create a setting of rare authenticity.

The Devil's Bridge, a few kilometers downstream, perfectly complements this getaway where nature and heritage meet. And for those who like to gain some altitude, the surrounding trails offer superb views over the valley.

To be expected:

Saint-Guilhem deserves a full day's visit. It's often there that you realize just how much the Montpellier hinterland can surprise you.

Sète: the Mediterranean at its truest

Reaching Sète after a short half-hour drive, the atmosphere changes. Here, the sea is everywhere: in the canals, on the lively quays, on the stalls of the Halles and all the way to the end of the long sandy beaches.

Sète retains its popular, maritime character. The city lives to the rhythm of the tides and the water jousting tournaments that are an integral part of its identity. People come for the unique light of the coastline, but also for its generous cuisine where seafood naturally takes center stage.

Essential:

The morning is often the best time to capture the atmosphere of Sète in all its simplicity.

Pic Saint-Loup: hiking in the heart of the vineyards

Inland, about forty minutes from Montpellier, the Pic Saint-Loup proudly overlooks the plain. This iconic mountain attracts both hiking enthusiasts and those curious to discover the wines that bear its name.

The climb, accessible to most hikers, amply rewards the effort with an unobstructed panorama of the garrigue, the Cévennes mountains to the north, and, on a clear day, all the way to the Mediterranean Sea to the south. Descending back to the surrounding cellars and estates allows you to extend your exploration in a convivial atmosphere.

To do:

The region offers a beautiful diversity of wines, often produced in small quantities, best discovered on site.

Palavas-les-Flots: a refreshing seaside break just a stone's throw from the city

Just a few minutes from Montpellier, Palavas-les-Flots offers an easy and accessible getaway for everyone. Its long sandy beaches, water sports and summer markets make it an ideal stop, whether you are with family, as a couple or with friends.

But Palavas also has that slightly retro charm of historic seaside resorts, with its quays lined with small boats, its restaurants open to the sea and the lively atmosphere of its center every summer evening.

Worth noting:

Out of season, the atmosphere becomes calmer, ideal for a soothing stroll in the first light of evening.

The Hotel des Arts: your starting point in the heart of Montpellier

Located in the centre of Montpellier, a few steps from the Place de la Comédie and the Saint-Roch train station, theHôtel des Arts is the perfect base for exploring the region.

We welcome visitors every day who come to discover Montpellier and its surroundings, in a simple and welcoming setting. Our comfortable rooms , suitable for couples, families , and business travelers alike , offer the ideal place to relax after a day of exploring.

Why choose the Hôtel des Arts?

Our team is available to advise you and help you prepare your discoveries in the region.