EXPLORING THE THAU ARCHIPELAGO

The Thau Archipelago is brimming with footpaths and walking routes that will allow you to discover or rediscover the area’s natural treasures. From vineyards and lakes to pine forests and the seaside, a whole range of scents and colours awaits you on an outing in the great outdoors. Here are three ideas for walks to help you recharge your batteries close to home:

Updated on 15 June 2026

The Capitelles Trail – Poussan

Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours – Distance: 5 km – Difficulty: Easy

This pleasant walk in the Moure massif takes you on a journey back in time. Set off to discover the capitelles, these dry-stone structures that served as shelters for farmers over the centuries. Perfectly restored, they will punctuate your walk through the surrounding garrigue, where the scents of thyme, rosemary and wild lavender mingle. You may even spot two structures that are rare for the region: an underground capitelle and the Trou de Bonnefoy, a lavogne (watering trough) resembling a Roman bath.

Once you reach the heights of the village, you can admire a magnificent panorama of the Thau lagoon and its surroundings. Follow the blue markers throughout your walk to find your way more easily.

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WHERE TO PARK?

Between Rue des Pampres and Rue Pasteur or Place de Cabrelous.

The Conque Walk - Mèze

Duration: less than an hour – Distance: 2 km – Difficulty: Easy

On the outskirts of Mèze, on the edge of the Thau lagoon, lies the Conque walk. It is divided into two trails, accessible depending on the birds’ nesting seasons.

Set in the heart of a Natura 2000-listed wetland, you can discover the local flora and fauna as you stroll along. Halfway along the route, an observation point allows you to admire the birds in their natural habitat without disturbing them.

More experienced walkers can start their walk from the Mèze Tourist Information Office, not far from the marina, and why not continue on to the shellfish farming area? Some shellfish producers, such as Mas de Cati, La Noisette d’Oc and Degus’Thau, will be delighted to offer you a tasting of Mediterranean oysters and mussels accompanied by a glass of Picpoul. A lovely way to treat yourself after a lovely stroll through the peaceful surroundings of La Conque. Expect a walk of around 4 km, with the Thau lagoon as a backdrop throughout.

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WHERE TO PARK?

La Conque car park

The Angle Cove – From Balaruc-le-Vieux to Bouzigues

Duration: 2½ hours – Distance: 9.6 km – Difficulty: Moderate

The Crique de l’Angle is a natural cove situated to the east of the Etang de Thau. This marshy area, a Natura 2000 site, is a true paradise for birdwatchers, who can come at their leisure to admire the various species that have made their home in this cove. A walk starting from Balaruc-le-Vieux takes you back to the village of Bouzigues, whilst you enjoy this wild retreat with its fascinating biodiversity. Here, nature reigns supreme, far from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding towns.

Once you arrive in Bouzigues, wander through the narrow streets of this authentic little fishing village where oysters take centre stage all year round. You’ll inevitably pass by the Etang de Thau Ethnographic Museum, which is packed with information and artefacts tracing the history of shellfish farming from past to present. The harbour, with its cafés and restaurants, is the perfect spot for a tasty break before heading off towards Balaruc-le-Vieux.

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WHERE TO PARK?

Car park at the Carrefour shopping centre in Balaruc-le-Vieux (the cycle path starts nearby).

Departing from Gigean

Nestled in the heart of the Gardiole massif,Saint Félix de Montceau Abbey and its monastic gardens overlook the village of Gigean.

There are two signposted walking routes to choose from. The first is a 6.5 km loop and the second is over 14 km. These walks will allow you to discover a variety of stunning views over the Thau Archipelago and its shades of blue, as well as the hinterland and its expanses of greenery. Upon arrival, visit the abbey gardens and admire the remains of the religious building.

During your walk, you’ll discover numerous dry-stone structures built by hand over the centuries, such as the clapas, low walls and capitellesof La Gardiole.
For full details of these signposted walking routes, see our downloadable walking guides:

Around the Abbey – Duration: 2 hours – Distance: 6.5 km – Difficulty: Easy.
Saint-Félix en Gardiole – Duration: 4½ hours – Distance: 14.5 km – Difficulty: Moderate.

You can also find them in paper format, available for purchase at all our Tourist Information Offices.

Departing from Montbazin

Duration: 4 hours – Distance: 12.5 km – Difficulty: Moderate.

Montbazin is a pretty village situated at the junction of the Thau lagoon and the Moure hills.

A beautiful 12 km walk awaits you from the village, inviting you to explore these limestone hills lined with garrigue and kermes oak. You’ll come across some very well-preserved capitelles as well as various 360° panoramic viewpoints. During your walk, immerse yourself in the world of the farmers of yesteryear and let yourself be transported back to life in the La Moure massif by downloading this superbaudio guide, whereyou’ll be accompanied by Fernande, a shepherdess, and her flock.

Once you’ve finished your walk, set off to explore Montbazin and its cobbled streets. The Saint Pierre Chapel houses Romanesque frescoes with remarkable Byzantine influences, which are very rare in our region. During the summer months, this building, listed as a Historic Monument, hosts exhibitions, concerts and other cultural events.

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