The must-sees in Gigean

For more experienced hikers, this 14.5 kmcircuit offersthe ultimate way to discover the Gardiole in all its splendour. A true invitation to explore, this loop takes you from the summit of the massif (234 m) to the viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean, passing through varied landscapes that reveal the full richness of the Thau Archipelago.

Roc d’Anduze option (10 mins round trip): Don’t miss this detour! On the left, follow a path uphill to reach the highest point of the massif at an altitude of 234 metres. From up there, the view is simply breathtaking: 360° of pure beauty! The Thau lagoon stretches out in all its majesty, the Mediterranean Sea glistens to the south, and on a clear day, you can even see the Pyrenees and Mont Canigou to the south-west. This is THE unmissable photo spot on your hike!

Continue along the track to a large crossroads (junction with the short 9.5 km alternative route and the “Around the Abbey” circuit). Turn left and reach a junction by a painted cistern, where the“Belvédères de la Gardiole” circuit branches off.

Turn right, then right again to walk tothe Mare de Mège, a vital water source for local wildlife. Continue straight ahead and take the DFCI track (GAR3) on the right, which winds along the Mediterranean coastline like a balcony. This is where the spectacle becomes truly magnificent: breathtaking views of the port of Sète, Frontignan and its pink salt marshes, the Étang d’Ingril, the Bois des Aresquiers, Vic-la-Gardiole and its ponds. This section is one of the most beautiful panoramic viewpoints in the Thau Archipelago!

You will pass to the right of the old airfield (a historic site) and, further on, reach a large crossroads near the old oil wells. Turn left, walk 150 metres and leave the track to the right via a straight path, on the edge of the national forest. From there,you’ll enjoy an exceptional view of the lido between Sète and Agde, the Thau lagoon and its oyster beds, which seem to float on the water.

Head down to the Col de Gigean, then turn right and follow the path down which will take you back to the abbey, the starting and finishing point of this magnificent loop.

Come down from your high-altitude explorations to immerse yourself in the historic heart of Gigean, a true medieval gem of the Thau Archipelago. The village is distinguished by its unique circular layout, a medieval defensive urban planning system in which the houses are arranged in concentric circles around the present-day church, Saint Géniès, thus creating a form of protection in the event of an attack.

At the heart of the circular village stands the Church of Saint-Geniès, a 14th-century Gothic building recognisable by its imposing bell tower. Currently undergoing restoration (work due to be completed in November 2025), this church bears witness to the local council’s commitment to preserving its exceptional heritage. The most unusual feature of the building is its pediment. Visitors can read there: “French Republic, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity”. This inscription, added following the 1905 law when the State regained control over places of worship, is a feature shared by only around a hundred churches in France.

At its foot, the Place de la République, with its central fountain, serves as a meeting place for the people of Gigean, and is particularly lively during the weekly market.

Don’t miss the studium, built in the 14th century on the initiative of Pope Urban V to encourage the education of the younger generations and prepare them for the University of Montpellier. This “studia” bears witness to the importance attached to education in the Thau Archipelago as far back as the Middle Ages. Pope Urban V, himself a professor at Montpellier, hoped in this way to counteract the decline of this prestigious university. A rare and precious educational heritage!

This chapel, built between the 12th and 13th centuries, was home to more than a hundred White Penitents at the height of its influence. Built of stone in a simple style, the chapel features elements characteristic of religious buildings in the small villages of Languedoc. Its interior still retains some original features, such as simple vaults, frescoes and ex-votos, illustrating the devotion of the local people.