11 climbing and via ferrata spots near Montpellier

Do you love outdoor activities? Discover the 11 climbing and via ferrata spots near Montpellier.

If you’re visiting Montpellier, be sure to take advantage of the many outdoor activities on offer. Situated between the sea and the mountains, this region of southern France is sure to keep you busy. From jet skiing and parachuting to wine tasting, there’s something for everyone. And climbing and via ferrata enthusiasts won’t disagree!

The Montpellier region is an ideal playground for beginners and experienced climbers alike. With its numerous cliffs, favorable Mediterranean climate and sumptuous natural landscapes, the Hérault is an ideal setting for this activity. It would be a shame not to take advantage of it. But you’re probably wondering which site to choose? To help you, here’s a selection of 11 climbing and via ferrata spots near Montpellier.

1. Climbing the Pic Saint Loup

Escalader le Pic Saint Loup, Hérault

Photo Credit: Flickr – Damien RAMOS

The Pic Saint Loup is undoubtedly a must for all climbing enthusiasts. Situated in the commune of Valfaunès, 30 minutes from Montpellier, it’s a popular spot with locals and visiting sports enthusiasts alike.

At 658 metres high, it’s an ideal playground for both seasoned climbers and amateurs wishing to perfect their technique. The incline is around 40° throughout, making this climbing route a fairly physical obstacle. But it also offers routes that are more accessible to beginners. In any case, your effort will be amply rewarded at the summit, with a breathtaking view of Mont Aigoual, the coastline and the sea.

2. The Hortus cliff

Located at the foot of the Pic Saint Loup, around 35 minutes from Montpellier, the Hortus cliff is particularly popular with seasoned climbers. Indeed, the site is renowned for its long, highly technical routes. Sports enthusiasts and thrill-seekers are sure to appreciate this place.

3. Via ferrata du Thaurac

If you’re looking for a place to do via ferrata near Montpellier, the Thaurac cliff is without doubt the most recommended. Located in Saint Bauzille de Putois, close to the touristy Caves des Demoiselles, this site offers a course accessible to all levels. Here, you’ll find aerial passages, zip lines, underground chimneys and a monkey bridge. All while having fun and admiring the superb views of the Cévennes and Mont Aigoual.

4. Via Ferrata de Rousses

Via Ferrata des Rousses, Lozère

Photo Credit: Instagram – carau16

About two hours from Montpellier, the Via Ferrata de Rousses offers an easy route, ideal for a family activity. The course is a cross between hiking and climbing, while overlooking the Tapoul gorges. To spice things up, there’s a zip line and monkey bridges. An opportunity to delight young and old alike!

5. The cliffs of Saint-Bauzille-de-Montmel

For an outdoor activity with friends or family, we recommend climbing the cliffs at Saint-Bauzille-de-Montmel. This route is accessible to all levels and is particularly popular in winter, thanks to its southern exposure. It’s a great way to enjoy the surrounding area, with a breathtaking view of the sea.

6. The Joncas climbing cliff

Climbers beware: the Joncas cliff is a popular spot for rock climbing in the Hérault region. This reputation is partly due to its prime location, in a bucolic environment. Situated in the commune of Montpeyroux, around 30 minutes from Montpellier, the site also offers great routes for all levels of climber. Sportsmen and women will find what they’re looking for, with more technical sections requiring some basic climbing skills.

7. The climbing cliff at Saint Guilhem le Désert

Falaise Saint Guilhem le Désert

Photo Credit: De Poopee / Shutterstock.com

Situated near one of France’s most beautiful villages, the cliffs of Saint Guilhem le Désert are a must for beginners and advanced climbers alike. This magnificent site offers faces up to 180 metres high, which will delight sportsmen and women, as well as long routes of varying difficulty, more suited to novices.

A word of advice: make sure you respect the site, the village parking lot and the paths leading to the foot of the tracks.

8. The Claret cliff

Just 45 minutes from Montpellier, the Claret crag is the ideal playground for seasoned climbers. With 135 routes, the climbing is very physical and the level is high. Nevertheless, the Claret crag remains a must for this outdoor activity in the Hérault region.

9. The Saint Jean du Buèges cliff

Escalade à Saint Jean du Buèges

Photo credit: De PAUL ATKINSON / Shutterstock.com

At the gateway to the Cévennes, just 45 minutes from Montpellier, you’ll find a site ideal for beginners and advanced climbers. No fewer than 80 routes lead you through a sumptuous natural setting, between rivers and garrigues. Be sure to stop off at Saint Jean du Buèges for a relaxing day out with family or friends.

10. Climbing at Pic de Vissou

The site is well known to paragliders and hikers in the region, but has recently been upgraded to the delight of climbers. The limestone cliffs offer some fifty routes accessible to beginners. Its south-facing aspect allows visitors to enjoy outdoor activities all year round. The icing on the cake is the magnificent sea view.

11. The Via Ferrata at Saint-Sériès

On the border between the Gard and Hérault departments, the Via Ferrata at Saint-Sériès is easy and fun. You’ll encounter several obstacles, including a zip line and a monkey bridge. All the while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. An ideal place for a family activity, accessible to all.

So, are you ready to climb to the top?