Montpellier: Guided Tour of Unusual Places by Electric Bike

When it comes to exploring a city like Montpellier, many travelers stick to the well-trodden paths—main squares, famous monuments, maybe a few popular cafes. But what if you could see the city from a different perspective, uncovering hidden corners and forgotten sites that most visitors miss? That’s exactly what this electric bike tour offers. It’s a chance to see Montpellier’s unusual side, combining comfort, fun, and a dash of history, all in a small-group setting.

What we love about this experience are three key things: First, the ease of riding thanks to the electric bikes, which makes the tour accessible even if you’re not an avid cyclist. Second, the unusual stops—from abandoned follies to thermal baths—are genuinely intriguing. Third, the multi-language guides provide a friendly, informative atmosphere, especially for international visitors.

One potential consideration might be the duration: at 3.5 hours, it’s a half-day adventure, so if you’re short on time or prefer more leisurely strolls, that’s worth noting. Also, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 16, pregnant women, or those over 115 kg (254 lbs).

This experience is perfect for curious travelers who want more than just the standard sightseeing and enjoy a bit of adventure with comfort. If you’re eager to explore Montpellier’s lesser-known spots and capture some unique photos, this tour could be a memorable highlight of your trip.

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Key Points

Unusual Sites: Discover forgotten fountains, abandoned follies, and unique districts.
Comfort and Safety: Electric bikes make riding easy and accessible for many.
Guided Experience: Multilingual guides provide rich stories and local insights.
Flexible Group Size: Small groups (max 8) ensure personalized attention.
Duration and Flexibility: 3.5 hours with multiple starting times—check availability.
Ideal for adventurous travelers: Not suited for children under 16, pregnant women, or those over 115 kg.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Montpellier in a New Light

This tour offers a fresh perspective on Montpellier, focusing on hidden gems and unusual sights that don’t usually make it into standard guides. Starting from the lively Place de la Comédie, the tour takes you through the city’s core, along the lush Jardin des Plantes, and beyond the usual tourist spots.

Expect to feel the wind (or the assist of the electric motor) as you glide past some of the city’s lesser-known treasures. The route also crosses the Parc de la Guirlande and visits Celleneuve, a historic district that’s more local than touristy. One of the highlights is the visit to the Font Putanelle fountain, a disused spot that has a quiet, mysterious charm.

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The Unusual Sainte Thérèse Church

One of the standout stops is the Sainte Thérèse Church, dating back to the 1930s. Unlike the more ornate basilicas, this one has a distinctive style that reflects the period’s architecture. It’s a perfect example of how the tour balances history with quirky sights.

Domaine Bonnier de la Mosson

Another unexpected highlight is the Domaine Bonnier de la Mosson, an abandoned folly reminiscent of Versailles. Described by reviewers as “a little piece of hidden grandeur,” it offers a look into Montpellier’s opulent past and makes for some fantastic photos.

Thermal Baths and Local Wellness

The route also takes you to the Juvignac thermal baths, where you can fill your water bottles and learn about the healing properties of their mineral waters. This stop showcases how Montpellier blends leisure, health, and local traditions in an authentic way.

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Return via the City Center

The ride concludes back at the Place de la Comédie, giving you a chance to reflect on your exploration while soaking in the lively atmosphere of Montpellier’s main square.

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The Ride and the Guides

The electric bikes provided are praised for their comfort and safety features, making the ride smooth and manageable even for those less confident on two wheels. Safety equipment is available on request, which adds peace of mind.

Throughout the tour, guides speak French, English, and Spanish, ensuring a relaxed, friendly environment for international travelers. Reviewers often mention how guides like Clémence and Marco make the experience informative and engaging, sharing personal stories and details about each location that you wouldn’t find in a guidebook.

Small Group Benefits

Limited to 8 participants, this tour feels intimate. Smaller groups mean more interaction, better chances to ask questions, and a more personalized experience.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: In front of the Tourist Office at Place de la Comédie, the tour begins with a quick safety briefing and introduction from your guide. You’ll feel immediately at ease with the electric assist, perfect for navigating the city’s terrain comfortably.

First Stops – City Center and Jardin des Plantes: The route kicks off with a ride through Montpellier’s bustling heart, where the lively atmosphere contrasts with the quiet, green respite of the Jardin des Plantes. Here, you’ll enjoy a moment of calm amid the city’s hustle.

Crossing to Unusual Sites: Crossing the city, you’ll visit lesser-known spots like the Font Putanelle fountain—now disused but with a mysterious air—and then head toward Sainte Thérèse church. The 1930s architecture stands out amid more classical buildings.

Exploring Celleneuve and the Follies: The tour then ventures into the old district of Celleneuve, a neighborhood with its own character and history. The Domaine Bonnier de la Mosson is next—an abandoned folly that resembles a miniature Versailles. Tourists call it “a hidden piece of grandeur,” and it’s easy to see why once you see its intricate facade.

Wellness and Refreshment Stop: Afterward, you’ll stop at Juvignac thermal baths, where you can fill your water bottles and learn about their reputed healing properties. This fusion of wellness and history makes the tour stand out.

Return Journey: The final stretch takes you back along Avenue de Lodève and through the city center, ending back at the meeting point with plenty of time to soak in the lively atmosphere or grab a quick coffee.

Pricing and Value

The tour’s price is reasonable considering the depth of exploration and the inclusion of electric bikes, multiple language guides, and a small group setting. It offers excellent value for travelers keen to discover offbeat parts of Montpellier without the fatigue of long walks or car rides.

While it doesn’t include extras like drinks or photos, the experience itself—full of unique sights and insider stories—delivers more than enough memorable moments. The ability to explore at a relaxed pace, in comfort, and with knowledgeable guides makes this a worthwhile half-day outing, especially for those who enjoy a good story behind the sights.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous, curious travelers who appreciate authenticity and enjoy discovering the lesser-known sides of a city. It’s perfect for history buffs, photo enthusiasts, and those who want an active but comfortable way to explore.

It’s not suitable for children under 16, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility restrictions or weight over 115 kg, so those groups might prefer other options.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels? Yes, the electric bikes make riding easy, even for those who aren’t regular cyclists.
What languages are guides available in? Guides are available in French, English, and Spanish.
How long does the tour last? It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with multiple start times available.
What is included in the price? The price includes electric bikes, safety equipment (on request), and a guided tour.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Are there any age restrictions? Yes, not suitable for children under 16.
Are the bikes suitable for all terrains? The electric bikes are designed for city riding and smooth paths.
Where does the tour start and end? It starts and ends at the Tourist Office in Place de la Comédie.

This guided electric bike tour in Montpellier offers a compelling way to see the city’s hidden corners and unusual sites with ease and comfort. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a balance between adventure, history, and authentic local spots, all within a manageable half-day experience. With friendly guides and a small group setting, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for Montpellier’s lesser-known treasures and some fantastic photos to prove it.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour opens a window to the city’s secret life—one pedal stroke at a time.