Spring and autumn are the perfect seasons to hike in Languedoc. As the weather was lovely, I decided to do the Pic de Vissou hike. Over four hours, I walked through vineyards, garrigues and forests before arriving at the top of this modest mountain. As the day was mostly clear, I had a magnificent view over the Hérault department. For a moment I felt like I was on top of the world!
Follow the yellow signs
The hike I went on is called “Les Crêtes de Vissou”. The starting point is la Cave Coopérative in Cabrières. From here, the route is clearly indicated, and you just have to follow the yellow painted stripes. Make sure you bring enough to eat and drink. In fact, this hike is perfect for a picnic, with plenty of good spots.
Golden fall colours
Passing the village of Cabrières, I soon enough headed for Pic de Vissou. You can’t miss it, it’s visible from miles away. Although autumn had just begun, I was already surrounded by some hints of golden fall colours. And by the most amazing scents of thyme, rosemary and wild fig.
Beautiful panorama
After traversing the forest, the climb to the top of Pic de Vissou became quite steep. Luckily it didn’t last too long, and the rest breaks I took gave me a beautiful panorama over the vineyards. From above, the landscape looked like a patchwork quilt.
Dazed and amazed
When I arrived at the top, I was dazed and amazed by the view. On one side you can see as far as the Cirque de Mourèze and the Mont Liausson. And on the other side, you can look over Cabrières and the vineyards in their many shades of green. I could even spot the sparkling sea!
Spread your picnic blanket
Continuing on the actual crête, the mountain ridge, more amazing views will surround you. There’s more than enough space to spread your picnic blanket, there are even some tables! Not easy to continue the walk after a gorgeous break like this…
Variety of landscapes
Going down the mountain, I went through the same landscapes as going up, only in reverse order. And walking got easier as the road went down. I walked for about 4 hours, but it didn’t feel like it. The Pic de Vissou hike is so diverse that you don’t notice the time passing by. A beautiful walk to get to know the Hérault region!
