What to see in France

When Olargues reveals its seductive assets

Vue sur le village d'Olargues
Vue sur le village d'Olargues

 

Like all the villages classified as one of France's Most Beautiful Villages, Olargues' historic and built heritage is as rich as its natural heritage. Situated in the west of the Hérault department in the Occitanie region, it is part of the Haut-Languedoc nature park. Besieged many times, the village has managed to retain the beauty and soul of its medieval architecture. Choosing a campsite to discover Olargues will guarantee you a holiday full of lovely memories.

Campsites around Olargues

 

There are no campsites in Olargues itself, but there are several in the vicinity of the village where you can visit Olargues in the best possible conditions. Here is a selection of some of the establishments that will please you:

Camping Rieumontagné **** in Nages is located 31 km from the village of Olargues. In an ideal location for those who love nature and hiking in the low mountains, you can cool off in the beautiful heated swimming pool, relax in the wellness area, all in a very comfortable establishment in the middle of nature.

A campsite by the lake
A campsite by the lake© RIEUMONTAGNÉ **** - Nages (81)

 

Les Cerisiers du Jaur campsite **** in Saint-Pons-de-Thomières is just 16 km from the village of Olargues. It has 106 pitches and an outdoor swimming pool. You can enjoy hiking, volleyball and table tennis, as well as children's activities, evening entertainment and shows.

With rentals open all year round and pitches available from March, Le Nice - Campotel de l'Orb ** campsite in Roquebrun is 20 km from the village of Olargues. It offers over twenty chalets and a range of activities including tennis, table tennis and pétanque, as well as evening dances.

 

The nuggets of Olargues

Situated on the banks of the River Jaur and comprising three areas of ecological interest, the village of Olargues enjoys a privileged geographical location, having been built in the 12th century on a rocky platform overlooking the entire valley. Here, architecture and natural landscape blend naturally and perfectly.

From the keep of the old castle, you'll have an exceptional view of the Caroux massif, and of the village too, as it sits high above it. This superb bell tower and a 12th-century gateway are all that remain of the castle.

View from the heights of Olargues
View from the heights of Olargues© iStock

Wandering through the medieval streets is undoubtedly the best way to explore the village. Admire the architecture of the timber-framed houses, observe the "baladas" of the steep streets covered in pebbles from the Jaur, then take the Commanderie staircase, which is located beneath the Musée d'Art et Tradition Populaire and leads directly to it. Here you can learn more about the history of Olargues. This unusual staircase, which takes you through a gallery, can also be a fun way for children to discover the area.

View of the medieval village of Olargues
View of the medieval village of Olargues© IStock

 

The Pont du Diable is a real attraction for visitors. This 12th-century site is listed as a Historic Monument, and its narrow, hump-backed shape, with two arched openings through which the Jaur flows, is easily recognisable. Its name comes from a medieval legend that tells of the inhabitants making a pact with the devil. Not to be confused with the other Ponts du Diable in the Hérault.

The Devil's Bridge at Olargues
The Devil's Bridge at Olargues© iStock

On your way to the Pont du Diable, you can admire the old seigniorial mill, the church of Saint-Laurent and the rural chapel of Saint-Martin-des-Œufs, both built in 1688. All equally sumptuous buildings.

Bell tower of Saint-Laurent church
Bell tower of Saint-Laurent church© iStock

 

Hiking is a favoured sport here, especially as the generous natural surroundings offer sublime views over the village of Olargues. The Peiro Escrito, a rock decorated with cave engravings dating back to the Bronze Age, is a particularly good place to start. Finally, mountain bikers will be delighted by the signposted routes that allow them to discover the site in a different way.

 

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