On the Way of St. James, about forty kilometres from Montpellier in the heart of the wild Hérault Gorges, nestles a superb village known for its famous Gellone Abbey, which attracts many pilgrims and visitors every year. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it fits in perfectly with the surrounding rocky landscape and is remarkable for housing the relics of St. William and the True Cross. To get there, walk along the picturesque, flowery streets to Place de la Liberté, where the abbey church portal stands. After admiring the abbey's Romanesque architecture and especially its remarkable chevet, don't hesitate to pay the cloister a visit. Bathed in natural light, it offers a peaceful setting that once more demonstrates the serenity of this place.
Then go for a stroll on the cobbled streets lined with old stone houses interspersed with the little artisans' shops that make the town so charming. Take a break on its pretty square, complete with fountain, and enjoy a drink in the shade of its magnificent century-old plane tree.
If you love scenic viewpoints, don't forget to climb to the heights of the medieval city, where a breathtaking view of the valley awaits you! You can also go from Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert to the Cirque of L'Infernet, an immense natural wall formed by gigantic cliffs, where vines and olive trees grow on tiered terraces. To get there, take Rue du Bout du Monde from Place de la Liberté and follow the path along the river. A wonderful change of scene!
