Discover Lake Saint-Farriol A hidden gem in the heart of the Hérault

To the north of the Thau lagoon, nestled in the fragrant hills of Villeveyrac, lies a true gem: Lake Saint-Farriol. This former bauxite mine, transformed into a natural oasis, invites you on an unforgettable getaway, where industrial history and untamed beauty blend harmoniously.

Updated on 15 June 2026

1. The Gueules Rouges Walk A hike with a thousand faces

Set off to explore this enchanting trail that winds its way through the fragrant garrigue of the Moure hills. This accessible walk offers a glimpse of all the treasures of the Thau Archipelago: golden vineyards, lush pine forests, centuries-old dry-stone huts and breathtaking views.

The highlight? Stunning views over the emerald-green Lake Saint-Farriol, the vastness of the Villeveyrac plain and the silhouette of the Thau lagoon.

🥾 6km | 2 hours | Easy
🚗 Access: Just 30 km from Montpellier via the M5 then the D2.
📍Start: Car park at the wildlife conservation centre (LPO), Les Cigales housing estate or Villeveyrac town hall car park.
🟡 Route marked in yellow.

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2. The Joëlette trail at Saint-Farriol An escape for everyone

The Hérault is breaking new ground with the department’s very first official Joëlette trail. This wonderful initiative enables people with reduced mobility to enjoy the site’s natural beauty to the full.

Thanks to the Joëlette, a single-wheeled all-terrain wheelchair, and the caring support of the Mas Troquet association, everyone can now enjoy these panoramic views. A specially adapted route of around 3.3 km offers the same experience as the main hiking trail.

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🥾 3.3km | 1 hour
📍 Starts in the Cigales neighbourhood, at the corner of the wildlife rescue centre (LPO).
📞 mastroquetvilleveyrac@gmail.com / 06 17 66 63 76.
♿️ Suitable for people with reduced mobility accompanied by a specialist.
🔵 Blue route marker.

3. Lake Saint-Farriol When industry becomes poetry

Here is the fascinating story of a rebirth: this turquoise-watered lake was once an open-cast bauxite mine, dug to a depth of 800 metres! Today, nature has reclaimed its rights and a plentiful aquifer has transformed this industrial past into a lush green oasis.

More than just a body of water, Saint-Farriol now irrigates nearly 1,000 hectares of crops, bearing witness to this wonderful transformation. Its wild banks, dotted with 19th-century stone huts and shaded by Aleppo pines, invite contemplation and photography.

🚫 Swimming is prohibited to protect this fragile ecosystem.

Our tips for a successful visit

Please respect the flora and fauna: these protected areas are home to a wealth of biodiversity.
Please keep the site quiet for the enjoyment of all visitors.
Leave no trace of your visit.
Visit during the cooler hours of the day to fully enjoy the fragrant garrigue.