Montpellier: Celles, Capitelles & Local Wine Tasting Tour

Traveling around Montpellier often means exploring historic sites, vibrant city life, or relaxing on the coast, but for those craving a more authentic, nature-filled escape, the Montpellier: Celles, Capitelles & Local Wine Tasting Tour offers a fantastic blend of rural beauty, history, and wine. It’s a full-day experience that promises a hearty dose of outdoors adventure, cultural insight, and delicious local wines—all in just 8 hours.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? For starters, the chance to wander through the ghost village of Celles, with its fascinating story of abandonment and revival, is a highlight. Then there’s exploring the Colorado-like red earth landscapes, which feel more like a scenic trip to the American West than France. Finally, the wine tasting at a family estate in Terrasse du Larzac provides a taste of the region’s renowned wines, paired with insights straight from the winemakers.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves a fair bit of walking and outdoor activity, so it’s best suited for those in decent shape. If you’re looking for a leisurely day or have mobility concerns, some parts may require a bit of effort. But overall, it’s a well-rounded experience that caters to curious travelers eager to see beyond the city.

Who would love this tour? It’s perfect for outdoor lovers, history buffs, wine enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to see a lesser-known side of Montpellier’s surroundings. With small group sizes and insightful guides, it’s ideal for those seeking a more intimate, personalized experience.

This experience made our article of We Rank The 13 Best Tours In France.

Key Points

Authentic experience: Walk through a rediscovered village with a compelling story of resilience.
Stunning landscapes: Marvel at the red earth formations and canyon scenery reminiscent of Colorado.
Cultural insights: Discover local capitelles, traditional dry stone huts with historical significance.
Wine lovers’ paradise: Taste complex, aromatic wines directly from a family estate with expert explanations.
Active day out: Includes a guided hike and outdoor exploration, demanding some physical effort.
Flexibility: Pickup from Montpellier in an air-conditioned minibus, with options on start times and small group sizes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Pickup

Your adventure begins at the Espace Mobilité TaM Mosson, a straightforward and accessible location in Montpellier. The tour conveniently includes pickup in an air-conditioned minibus—ideal for staying comfortable during the transfers. Guests are advised to wait at the tram stop ‘Mosson’ L1 or L3, where the guide will find you. This simple start removes the hassle of organizing transport and sets the tone for a smooth day.

Journey to Celles and the Guided Village Tour

After a roughly 33-minute drive, you arrive at Celles, a village with an almost mystical vibe. Abandoned in the 1960s to make way for the artificial Salagou lake, Celles lingered as a ghost town for decades. Today, it’s been given new life, offering visitors an enchanting glimpse of the past amid scenic lake views. As you walk through the village, you can imagine what life was like here, and appreciate the resilience of the local community that revived it.

Hike in the Red Earth Landscapes

Next, your guide leads you into the Ruffes canyon, an area that looks like a slice of Colorado right outside Montpellier. The landscape is marked by large expanses of red earth, dunes, and a small stream that winds through the terrain. This walk, spanning about 2.75 hours, is a chance to see nature’s artistry up close. In winter, the stream turns into a spectacular 30-meter waterfall, an awe-inspiring sight if you happen to visit then.

Several reviewers mention that the terrain can be uneven, so sturdy shoes are a must. As one noted, “We loved the way the landscape changed, with the little stream growing into a canyon—it felt like a completely different world.” The terrain also offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to connect with nature.

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Capitelles: Unique Dry Stone Structures

Along the walk, you’ll come across capitelles—small, dry stone huts built without mortar, showcasing traditional local craftsmanship. These structures served various purposes, from shelters to storage, and many are still remarkably well-preserved. Walking past these huts, you’ll get a sense of the resourcefulness of Languedoc farmers, and why these structures remain an important part of the region’s heritage.

Picnic Break in Nature

After the hike, a picnic is recommended—though not included in the tour price. Many travelers bring a packed lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning surroundings. A few reviews highlighted the joy of eating outdoors in such peaceful spots, with one comment: “Having a picnic by the canyon, surrounded by these breathtaking views, was the perfect way to unwind after the walk.”

Wine Tasting at Terrasse du Larzac

The final highlight takes you to a family-owned winery in Terrasse du Larzac. This estate, classified under the Terrasse du Larzac PDO, produces wines known for their complexity and aromatic profile. The winemakers, often members of the same family for generations, are passionate about sharing their craft.

You’ll tour the winery, learn about the winemaking and aging process, and sample several wines. The tasting session typically lasts around 1.5 hours, and many guests find it a delightful, authentic experience. One reviewer remarked, “The winemakers were so friendly and knowledgeable, and their wines truly reflected the unique terroir of the region.”

Return Journey

After the tasting, the journey back to Montpellier takes around 21 minutes, giving you time to reflect on the day’s adventures or share impressions with fellow travelers. The tour concludes at the original meeting point, making for a convenient and hassle-free end to your day.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation and Group Size

The inclusion of air-conditioned transportation makes the long day comfortable, especially during warmer months. The small group limit—capped at 8 participants—means you get a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and interact with your guide.

Duration and Timing

Spanning 8 hours, the tour offers a full day of activity without feeling rushed. Departure times vary depending on availability, so checking ahead is recommended. The tour is flexible enough to fit into a day trip from Montpellier, especially if you want a break from city sightseeing.

Cost and Value

While the tour’s price includes transport, guided hikes, and wine tasting, not including lunch means you’ll want to budget for a picnic. Considering the private feel, expert guide, and quality wine tastings, the overall value aligns well with those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. It’s especially attractive for those who appreciate outdoor adventure combined with cultural and culinary delights.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is not suitable for those with low fitness levels, given the walking involved and uneven terrain. Comfortable shoes and water are essential. It’s a day for active explorers who enjoy nature and don’t mind a bit of physicality.

Why Choose This Experience?

This tour offers a rare chance to see the lesser-known sights of Occitanie, from a ghost village to dramatic canyon landscapes, all wrapped in a story of resilience and regional pride. The wine tasting adds a flavorful touch, giving insight into the local terroir and familial traditions. The small group size and bilingual guides ensure an intimate, informative journey.

If you’re eager to combine outdoor adventure, history, and wine, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a more genuine experience than what’s typically offered on larger, bus-based tours.

Final Thoughts

The Montpellier: Celles, Capitelles & Local Wine Tasting Tour provides a beautifully curated snapshot of the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage of Occitanie. From wandering through the hauntingly beautiful village of Celles, to hiking through Colorado-like red earth formations, to tasting wines at a family estate, every part of the day feels authentic and enriching.

This experience is best for active travelers who want to see beyond the city buzz and dive into the region’s natural beauty and local traditions. Small groups and expert guides ensure a relaxed, engaging atmosphere, making it a memorable way to spend a day outside Montpellier.

If you’re after a well-rounded, immersive day that combines nature, history, and wine, this tour is hard to beat. It strikes a great balance of adventure and leisure—perfect for curious souls eager to understand the heart of Languedoc.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, transport from Montpellier to the sites in an air-conditioned minibus is included in the tour price.

Where do I meet the guide? The meeting point is at the Tram stop ‘Mosson’ L1 or L3 in Montpellier. Just wait there, and the guide will find you.

How long is the hike? The guided walk through the canyon takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes, covering varied terrain.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, water, and clothes suitable for outdoor activity—lunch is not included, so bring your own picnic if you like.

Are the wines local? Yes, the wines are from a family estate in Terrasse du Larzac, known for complex and aromatic bottles.

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour involves some physical activity and outdoor walking, so it’s best suited for older children or teenagers in good health.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

What language is the tour conducted in? The tour is offered in both French and English, ensuring clear communication.

How many people will be on the tour? The group is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personal experience.

Is lunch included? No, guests should bring their own picnic to enjoy during the day.

What is the overall value of this tour? Given the transport, guided hikes, wine tastings, and intimate group size, it offers excellent value for travelers looking for an authentic and active day exploring Occitanie.

You can check availability for your dates here: