Hérault

Sète

Located on the Mediterranean coast, Sète is a picturesque port town that is famous for its canals, seafood, and art scene. The town is home to numerous museums and galleries, including the Paul Valéry Museum and the Musée International des Arts Modestes.

Cap d'Agde

This seaside resort is a popular destination for beachgoers, with its long stretches of golden sand and crystal-clear water. The town is also home to a large marina and a range of water sports activities.

Cirque de Navacelles

Located in the heart of the Hérault Valley, the Cirque de Navacelles is a stunning natural wonder that features a horseshoe-shaped canyon, towering cliffs, and a beautiful waterfall. The site is a popular destination for hiking, cycling, and picnicking.

WELCOME TO Hérault

Entry Into Department

largest city

Montpellier

AREA

6,101 km²

POPULATION

1,190,000

official language

French

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the canton's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Canal du Midi

The Canal du Midi is a historic waterway in southern France, stretching 240 kilometers from Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea. Constructed in the 17th century, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for boat trips. Visitors can explore the charming towns and landscapes along the canal, including vineyards, chateaux, and traditional French villages.

medieval city of Carcassonne

The medieval city of Carcassonne is a fortified town located on the border of Hérault and Aude in southern France. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. The city's walls, castle, and cathedral are well-preserved and visitors can take a guided tour to learn about its rich history.

The Canal du Midi

Political

Economy and Government

Hérault is a department located in the Occitanie region of France. The economy of Hérault is driven by a mix of industries, including agriculture, tourism, and technology. The department is well-known for its wine production, with numerous vineyards and wineries spread throughout the area. In addition to wine, Hérault is also home to other agricultural products such as olives, cheese, and honey.

The tourism industry in Hérault is supported by the department's proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, with many coastal towns and beaches drawing visitors from around the world. The city of Montpellier, the largest in Hérault, is also a major economic center, with a strong focus on research and development in the technology sector.

The government of Hérault is headed by a departmental council, which is responsible for overseeing local government services and infrastructure. The departmental council is responsible for a wide range of areas, including transportation, social services, culture, and economic development.

Overall, the economy of Hérault is diverse and robust, with a strong focus on both traditional industries such as agriculture and newer industries like technology. The government of Hérault is committed to supporting economic growth and development while also providing essential services to residents of the department.

History

History and Culture

Hérault is a department located in the Occitanie region of southern France, with a rich history and culture. Its history dates back to the Roman Empire, and it was an important location for trading and commerce during the Middle Ages. The region has been inhabited by various cultures over the centuries, including the Greeks, Celts, and Visigoths, which have all left their mark on the area.

Hérault has a strong wine-making tradition, with over 20,000 hectares of vineyards producing some of the world's finest wines. The department is also renowned for its traditional cuisine, including dishes like bouillabaisse and cassoulet.

The region's cultural heritage is evident in the numerous museums, galleries, and theaters that can be found throughout Hérault. The city of Montpellier is home to the Musée Fabre, a renowned art museum that houses a collection of over 800 works by European masters, as well as the Opéra Comédie, a historic opera house that dates back to the 18th century.

Hérault is also home to many festivals and celebrations, such as the Fête de la Musique, a music festival held on the summer solstice, and the Feria de Béziers, a celebration of bullfighting and local culture. These events offer visitors a chance to experience the vibrant and diverse culture of Hérault.

HOTELS

Domaine de Verchant

This luxury hotel is set in a restored 16th-century castle and features elegant rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant. The hotel is located just a few kilometers from the center of Montpellier and is surrounded by vineyards and gardens.

La Coquillade

This charming hotel is situated in the heart of the medieval town of Pézenas and offers beautifully appointed rooms, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, and a cozy restaurant serving local cuisine. The hotel is housed in a restored 17th-century building and is just a short walk from the town's shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Château Les Carrasses

This elegant hotel is set in a beautifully restored 19th-century chateau and features spacious suites and villas, a restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine, a swimming pool, and a spa. The hotel is located in the heart of the Languedoc wine region and offers stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and countryside.

RESTAURANTS

L'Atelier

This Michelin-starred restaurant in Montpellier offers a unique dining experience with a focus on creativity and innovation. The menu features seasonal ingredients and a mix of traditional and contemporary French cuisine, with dishes such as foie gras terrine and lobster with tarragon cream.

Le Jardin des Sens

This acclaimed restaurant in Montpellier is run by the Pourcel brothers, who have earned three Michelin stars for their innovative cuisine. The menu features a range of dishes inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean, with highlights such as roasted sea bass and lamb with rosemary.

La Réserve Rimbaud

This charming restaurant in Béziers offers a cozy and intimate setting and a menu of traditional French cuisine. The dishes are made with locally sourced ingredients and are expertly prepared, with options such as seared duck breast and crème brûlée.