Montpellier: Guided Tour of Unusual Places by Electric Bike

Discover Montpellier’s Unusual Places on an Electric Bike Tour

The Montpellier: Guided Tour of Unusual Places by Electric Bike offers an exciting way to explore the southern French city beyond the typical tourist routes. For $81 per person, this 3.5-hour journey takes you through little-known and abandoned sites, all while enjoying the comfort and ease of an electric bike. The tour is perfect for those eager to see Montpellier from a different angle, with stops that include forgotten fountains, historic districts, and even a Versailles-like folly.

The tour departs from the Place de la Comédie, right in the heart of Montpellier, and features guides fluent in French, English, and Spanish. While the pace is gentle enough for most riders, it does involve some riding across city streets, parks, and suburban areas. This experience suits travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure with plenty of informative stops.

However, note that pregnant women and those over 254 lbs (115 kg) are advised to avoid this activity. Also, since some parts of the ride include visiting less attractive or desolate sites, it’s best suited for individuals with a sense of curiosity and openness to exploring the city’s hidden corners.

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Key Points

• Price of $81 includes electric bikes, safety equipment, and multilingual guides.
• Duration of 3.5 hours makes it a compact but immersive experience.
• The itinerary covers both the city center and less-known suburban sites.
• Tour departs from Place de la Comédie, the central hub of Montpellier.
• Small groups limited to 8 participants ensure personalized attention.
• Suitable for most fitness levels, but not for pregnant women or heavier individuals.

Starting at the Heart of Montpellier: Meeting at the Tourist Office

The tour begins in front of the Tourist Office at Place de la Comédie, a lively and iconic spot in Montpellier. This central meeting point allows easy access and sets the tone for a tour that combines classic city sights with secret corners. The small group size of up to 8 people ensures an intimate experience, with guides available in French, English, and Spanish.

The check-in process is straightforward, and safety equipment is provided upon request. The electric bikes are well-maintained, offering a smooth ride through varying terrain, from city streets to park pathways.

Exploring Montpellier’s Unusual Sites on an Electric Bike

This tour specializes in uncovering lesser-known sites that are often overlooked by visitors. Starting from the Comédie, the route takes you across the city center, where you’ll enjoy riding along the Jardin des Plantes, Montpellier’s historic botanical garden. The disused Font Putanelle fountain presents a quiet, forgotten corner of the city, ideal for those interested in urban decay and abandoned monuments.

One of the highlights is the Sainte Thérèse church, built in the 1930s, offering a glimpse into Montpellier’s architectural diversity. The route also crosses the Parc de la Guirlande, a peaceful green space perfect for a quick pause.

The journey then ventures into Celleneuve, an old district where you’ll see a church and explore an abandoned folly called the Domaine Bonnier de la Mosson — a site that resembles Versailles in its grandeur, yet lies in quiet ruin. This stop stands out for its historic charm and atmospheric decay.

The tour continues towards Juvignac thermal baths, where you can fill water bottles with healing waters renowned for their medicinal properties. The return route takes you along Avenue de Lodève and back into the city center, completing a full but manageable circuit.

Riding Comfort and Safety on an Electric Bike

Comfort and safety are priorities on this tour. The electric bikes allow participants to cover more ground without exhaustion, making it accessible for most riders. Guides provide safety equipment upon request and help navigate city streets and park paths safely.

The bike ride is designed to be relaxed, with frequent stops that allow for photo opportunities and rest. The pace is generally gentle, and the rider skill level needs only to be enough to handle bike riding; physical fitness is not a strict requirement.

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Guides Fluent in French, English, and Spanish

The guides leading the tour are fluent in three languages, making the experience accessible to a diverse range of visitors. They are knowledgeable about Montpellier’s hidden history and local landmarks, providing informative commentary during the ride.

Most reviews praise the guides’ expertise and friendly attitude. Sébatien is noted for his experienced storytelling, which adds richness to the experience. The guides also respond well to questions and make sure everyone feels comfortable during the ride.

Stops at Abandoned and Unusual Places

This tour’s main appeal is its focus on unusual and abandoned sites. The Font Putanelle fountain offers a glimpse into disused urban infrastructure, while the Domaine Bonnier de la Mosson evokes imagery of Versailles, but in a state of quiet abandonment.

The Juvignac thermal baths provide a unique water source with healing properties, making this stop both refreshing and educational. The church in Celleneuve adds a historical element, contrasting old architecture with the modern city.

While some stops may seem less visually appealing or more desolate, they are integral to understanding the hidden layers of Montpellier’s history. The itinerary offers a balance of urban exploration and peaceful retreats.

Logistics and Practical Details

The meeting point is at the Tourist Office in Place de la Comédie, with easy access from central Montpellier. The small group size ensures personalized interaction with the guides. The tour includes electric bikes, safety equipment (upon request), and guidance in three languages.

Food and drinks are not included, but visitors are encouraged to bring water and snacks if needed. The tour does not include photos or lost objects, so participants should carry their belongings securely.

The activity is cancelable free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travelers. It’s important for pregnant women and those over 115 kg to avoid participating.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Montpellier Activities

Unlike traditional city tours, this experience offers a focused look at Montpellier’s forgotten places. The use of electric bikes makes covering less accessible spots easier, especially when exploring suburban areas or ruined sites.

The guides’ multilingual skills and specialized itinerary help provide a personalized and informative experience. The tour’s duration makes it suitable for a half-day adventure, fitting comfortably into a day of sightseeing.

Compared to private or walking tours, this by-bike approach adds an element of fun and practicality. It’s ideal for those who want a different perspective of Montpellier, beyond the usual attractions.

The Sum Up: An Unusual Way to Experience Montpellier

The Montpellier: Guided Tour of Unusual Places by Electric Bike offers an engaging way to see the city’s hidden corners that often go unnoticed. The price of $81 provides access to electric bikes, expert guides, and a curated itinerary filled with abandoned sites, historic districts, and peaceful parks.

While some stops may be less visually appealing, the overall experience is enriched by knowledgeable guides and the convenience of electric bikes. It suits adventurous travelers keen on exploring offbeat locations with a relaxed pace.

This tour delivers a memorable and different perspective of Montpellier, ideal for those curious about its secrets and willing to discover stories behind the abandoned and unusual places. It’s a worthwhile choice for visitors who enjoy active exploration with a touch of history and mystery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What language are the guides available in?
The guides speak French, English, and Spanish.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 3.5 hours.

What is included in the price?
The price includes electric bikes, safety equipment upon request, and guides.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Yes, pregnant women and people over 115 kg (254 lbs) are not suitable for this tour.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in front of the Tourist Office at Place de la Comédie.

Is the tour private or small-group?
It is a small-group experience, limited to 8 participants.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included.

What makes this tour different from other Montpellier tours?
It focuses on unusual, forgotten, and abandoned sites, with the convenience of electric bikes to reach places off the usual tourist track.

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