Montpellier: Celles, Capitelles & Local Wine Tasting Tour

Discover the charm of the South of France with the Montpellier: Celles, Capitelles & Local Wine Tasting Tour. Priced at $82 per person and lasting 8 hours, this experience offers a balanced mix of history, nature, and local flavors. The tour departs from Montpellier, with convenient pick-up options at the Mosson tram stop, making it accessible and easy to join.

Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes you through varied landscapes, from the ancient village of Celles to Colorado-like red earth canyons, culminating in a wine tasting session at a family estate. It is especially suited for those interested in authentic local sights and flavors, though some walking and outdoor activity are involved, so it’s best for those with a moderate fitness level. The tour’s small group size—limited to 8 participants—ensures an intimate experience with personalized attention.

Key Points

• Includes transport, guided hikes, and wine tasting for a well-rounded day.
• Visits historic Celles, a village with a compelling story of abandonment and revival.
• Explores red earth canyon landscapes reminiscent of Colorado, just outside Montpellier.
• Enjoys a wine tasting at a family-owned estate specializing in Terrasses du Larzac PDO wines.
• A full 8-hour experience with flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness, but no lunch is included—bring your own picnic.

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Discovering the Village of Celles and Its Untold Story

The tour begins with a guided visit to Celles, an ancient village that was abandoned in the 1960s when plans for the Salagou lake threatened to submerge it. Instead of disappearing, the waters stayed at the foot of the buildings, turning it into a ghost village that has been revived to reveal its enchanting lakeside setting today. The guide explains the village’s transformation and history, giving insight into its resilience and renewed life.

This stop provides a rare glimpse of regional history and offers plenty of photo opportunities amid the well-preserved stone structures and waterfront views. Visiting Celles is a highlight for anyone interested in local stories and picturesque scenery.

Hiking Through the Red Earth Canyon Des Ruffes

After exploring Celles, the adventure continues with a guided hike into the canyon des ruffes, an area that resembles Colorado with its dunes and expansive red earth. The terrain is made up of dry, reddish soil, known as ruffe, along with dunes, streams, and small rivers.

The walk lasts about 2 hours and 45 minutes, taking place in magical natural surroundings just 30 minutes from Montpellier. During winter, the stream often becomes a spectacular 30-meter-high waterfall, adding to the visual drama. The hike is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, but sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing are necessary.

At the end of the hike, a picnic in nature allows for a relaxing break amidst scenic views, making this part of the tour a perfect blend of activity and tranquility.

Exploring the Capetille Constructions and Regional Know-How

On the walk, you’ll encounter capitelles, small dry stone huts built without mortar. These unusual and charming structures are typical of the Languedoc region and served as temporary shelters for farmers. Strolling along the path, the capitelles add a touch of local craftsmanship to the landscape, making the walk both informative and visually appealing.

The dry stone construction techniques highlight regional know-how and heritage, and the structures’ placement along the route offers interesting photo opportunities.

Visiting the Terrasse du Larzac Wine Estate

The final part of the tour features a visit to a family-owned wine estate located in the Terrasses du Larzac appellation. The estate has been run by the same family for several generations, and the winemakers warmly welcome visitors to their winery.

Here, you’ll learn about the Terroir of Terrasse du Larzac, known for producing complex and aromatic PDO wines. The winemaking and aging process are explained by the hosts, giving insight into the craftsmanship behind each bottle. After the tour, a tasting session allows participants to sample varieties directly from the estate, highlighting the region’s unique flavors.

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Transport and Logistics Details

The tour begins at the Espace Mobilité TaM Mosson in Montpellier, from where air-conditioned minibuses transport participants to each stop. The total driving time is about 87 minutes, spread across several short trips. The guided hike takes approximately 45 minutes, followed by the walk in the canyon.

The wine tasting lasts around 1.5 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the wines and ask questions. The return to Montpellier completes the day with about 21 minutes of drive time.

Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes, water, and clothes suitable for outdoor activity. Note that lunch is not included, so travelers should bring their own picnic for the outdoor break.

Small Group Experience and Accessibility

With a limit of 8 participants, this tour provides a personalized and relaxed atmosphere. The live guides speak French and English, offering clear explanations and engaging storytelling. The small group size also means less crowding and more interaction with the guides.

While the tour involves walking and outdoor activity, it is not suitable for those with low fitness levels. Proper footwear and preparation are encouraged to make the most of the hike and exploration.

Pricing, Booking, and Cancellation Policy

The price of $82 includes transport, guided hike, and wine tasting. It does not include lunch or personal insurance, so travelers should plan accordingly. The booking process allows reserve and pay later, providing flexibility for changing plans.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, making this a low-risk option for those unsure of their schedule. The availability varies, so early booking is recommended to secure a spot.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This tour uniquely combines history, natural scenery, and regional wine in an 8-hour package that balances activity with relaxation. The story of Celles’ rebirth and the Colorado-like canyon landscapes provide eye-catching sights that are rarely combined in one experience.

The wine estate visit offers a hands-on look at local viticulture, with tastings to truly appreciate the distinctive flavors of Terrasse du Larzac wines. The small group setting and friendly guides make it ideal for those seeking a personalized, educational journey.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs, as well as wine lovers eager to explore a lesser-known appellation. It’s perfect for moderate walkers comfortable with outdoor activity and those craving an authentic taste of regional culture.

Travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, storytelling, and local craftsmanship will find this tour particularly rewarding. Keep in mind that no lunch is provided, so bringing a picnic makes for a more complete day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, air-conditioned minibus transport from the Espace Mobilité TaM Mosson in Montpellier is included.

How long does the wine tasting last?
The wine tasting session at the estate lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Do I need to bring my own picnic?
Yes, lunch is not included, so participants should bring their own picnic for the outdoor break.

What is the physical difficulty of this tour?
The tour involves walking and outdoor activity, suitable for those with moderate fitness. It is not recommended for people with low fitness levels.

What should I wear for the hike?
Comfortable shoes, water, and appropriate outdoor clothing are advised.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak French and English.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour requires a moderate level of fitness; children with good outdoor mobility can participate, but the activity may be less suitable for very young children.

How big is the group?
The group is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

What makes this tour special?
The blend of historic village exploration, scenic canyon hikes, and regional wine tasting highlights the diverse appeal of the South of France in a single day.

Can I book with flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, maintaining flexibility with your travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby