Bize-Minervois is a charming little village that finds itself amid vineyards and olive groves while overlooking the banks of the Cesse River. Being a ‘circulade’, the quaint streets will automatically bring you to the Place de l’Église with its 12th-century church. However, in summer, a dip in the river might be more tempting. Whatever season you visit, it’s always a pleasure to take a stroll and experience authentic French life as it’s meant to be.
Place aux Herbes
Crossing the ‘Porte Saint-Michel’, Bize-Minervois’ ancient main gate, dating around the 8th century, leads to the Place aux Herbes. This small square used to be a gathering place for gardeners to sell their produce. Chéri and I love going to the Café du Midi, where you can have a simple lunch menu for only 16.50 euros on weekdays. It’s called ‘La Cagette du Midi’ and all courses are served at the same time on a tray. Of course, we like to pair it with a glass of the area’s Minervois AOC appellation.
Neanderthals
Most streets lead to the church, and Chéri and I went via the Rue des Remparts. Taking a left onto the Place de la Paille will bring you to a lovely tower, called ‘tour dite d’Attila’. It hides a passageway to the Rue d’Église. The church was one of the first buildings in medieval Bize-Minervois. However, the village dates back much further, at least 40,000 years! In 1827, fossilised human bones were found in the nearby ‘Les Grottes du Moulin’ cave, proving that Neanderthals lived in this area. While walking around the church, we discovered a beautiful wall painting that we had never seen before. That said, it’s worth keeping your eyes open to spot the little jokes that the inhabitants have placed here and there. Can you spot the vegetarian barbecue?
Options
It’s only a short walk through Bize-Minervois. But you could combine it with a walk to the neighbouring village of Montouliers (just under 14 kilometres away), or one of the other trails. It’s also worth discovering the caves and the ancient Tour de Boussecos. L’Oulibo, an olive co-operative and the world’s largest producer of Lucques variety, is another enjoyable visit. Or you could take a plunge in one of the natural pools of the Cesse. Also, it’s on the way to Minerve, one of the most beautiful villages of France. In any case, you’ll find some great moments here, with enough options to keep everyone happy!
