Exploring the South of France: Celles, Capitelles & Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re looking for a day that mixes beautiful landscapes, a touch of history, and local flavors, this Montpellier-based tour might just be worth considering. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from everything available, it sounds like a thoughtfully curated experience that offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s charms.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it combines nature walks with cultural sights and wine tasting, giving you a sense of the area’s diverse appeal. Plus, the fact that it’s limited to small groups—just 8 people—means you’ll likely get a more personal, relaxed vibe. That said, a potential drawback is the need to carry your own picnic, as no lunch is included, so plan ahead if you want a proper meal.

This kind of trip would suit travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, are interested in local history, or simply want to indulge in some excellent regional wines without spending hours on their own planning. If you’re after a leisurely, varied day that offers both stunning scenery and authentic tastes, this experience could fit the bill.

Key Points

Varied landscapes: Red earth hikes and canyon walks reminiscent of Colorado.
Historical charm: Visits to the ghost village of Celles and its ancient stone Capitelles.
Local connection: Guided by a native of the region, adding authentic insights.
Wine experience: Tour of a family estate with tastings of Terre du Larzac PDO wines.
Practical details: Small group size, 8 participants max, includes transport and guided activities.
Self-catering: You’ll need to bring your own picnic — no meals included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a full day of discovery—perfect if you want a blend of adventure, history, and wine. Starting from Montpellier, you’ll hop onto an air-conditioned minibus, which takes you into the heart of the region. The itinerary is designed to maximize scenic views and authentic encounters, all while remaining manageable within an 8-hour window.

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Starting Point and Transport

You’ll meet your guide at the Tram stop ‘Mosson’ in Montpellier, a convenient and central meeting place. The group size is capped at 8 people, which means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. The bus rides are relatively short, with about 33 minutes to reach the first stop, giving you ample time to settle in and chat with your guide.

Guided Tour of Celles

Your first stop is the village of Celles, an intriguing place with an odd story. Abandoned in the 1960s to make way for the Salagou lake, Celles was saved from complete submersion, leaving behind a ghost village with a striking view of the water at its doorstep. This spot is perfect for wandering through ruins and imagining life there when it was thriving.

You’ll get a 45-minute guided walk around the village, during which your guide—likely a local—will share the village’s background and perhaps some stories that aren’t in the guidebooks. It’s a great way to connect with the place on a more personal level.

Red Earth Hike in Canyon des Ruffes

Next, you’ll venture into an area called canyon des ruffes, a landscape that might remind you of Colorado—dunes, striking red earth called ‘ruffe,’ and streams or small rivers. We like the way this part of the tour emphasizes scenery and outdoor activity, making it perfect for those who enjoy a bit of walking and nature.

The walk lasts about 2 hours and 45 minutes and can take you all the way up to a 30-meter-high waterfall in winter, which sounds stunning. The terrain might be uneven and a little challenging for those with low fitness levels, so comfortable shoes and water are essentials.

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Exploration of Capitelles

On the way back, you’ll visit Capitelles, small dry stone huts that reflect local craftsmanship. These structures served as temporary shelters for farmers and are a charming reminder of traditional life in the Languedoc region. Walking along the path, you’ll see these structures dotted throughout the landscape, giving you a glimpse into past livelihoods and building techniques.

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Wine Tasting at Terrasse du Larzac

The final highlight is a visit to a family-owned estate in the Terrasse du Larzac appellation. Here, you’ll learn about the unique terroir that produces complex and aromatic PDO wines, and the estate’s winemakers will be happy to walk you through their process.

A tasting session follows, during which you can sample different wines and appreciate the nuances of this special region. Considering the estate has been in the family for generations, you’ll likely get some authentic stories and insights into local wine traditions.

The entire wine experience lasts about 1.5 hours and is a fitting ending to a day filled with natural beauty and history.

What We Know About the Value

At $82 per person, the tour offers a lot of different experiences packed into a manageable day. The price includes transport and guided activities, which are often the most laborious parts of planning a trip. It’s a fair price for a small-group tour that combines outdoor fun, cultural sights, and wine tasting.

However, remember that the tour doesn’t include lunch—you’ll need to bring your own picnic, which could be a lovely way to enjoy a meal amidst nature if packed properly. Also, personal insurance isn’t included, so travelers with specific needs should check their coverage.

Pros and Cons in a Nutshell

Pros:
– Small group size encourages a relaxed, personal experience.
– The combination of landscapes, history, and wine makes for a well-rounded day.
– Guided by a local, adding authenticity and insights.
– Stunning views that evoke Colorado but are right in France.

Cons:
– The terrain can be a bit demanding for those with low fitness levels.
– No lunch included, so planning ahead is necessary.
– Rides are relatively short, but transportation timing might affect those who prefer a more leisurely pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurers and curious travelers who want to see a different side of southern France beyond the beaches and city streets. If you enjoy hiking, wine, and history, you’ll probably find this experience rewarding.

It’s also suitable for those who appreciate small-group settings that allow for more interaction and tailored experiences. If your focus is a relaxed day with plenty of stunning views, this tour offers that without the fuss of planning every detail yourself.

But note, it’s not designed for travelers seeking a leisurely, purely sightseeing experience—you’ll be walking over uneven terrain and carrying your picnic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour might not be ideal for very young kids, especially considering the terrain and outdoor hikes. It’s more suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness and interest in walking.

How long are the transportation sections?
The van rides are typically between 20 to 33 minutes, making the trip manageable without long bus journeys.

Are the wine tastings suitable for everyone?
Yes, the tastings are done at a family estate, likely offering a range of wines that can suit many palates. It’s an opportunity to learn about local wines in a relaxed setting.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, and your own picnic are essential. Also, packing sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses is wise if you’re visiting in summer.

Can I join from other locations in Montpellier?
Pick-up is at the ‘Mosson’ tram stop, but other points are available on request, so check with the provider if you’re staying elsewhere.

Is there a limit to the group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 8 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

What language is the tour guided in?
Guides speak both French and English, so communication should be straightforward regardless of your native tongue.

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Montpellier: Celles, Capitelles & Local Wine Tasting Tour

Final Thoughts

This Montpellier day tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, local history, and wine tasting—all within a manageable, well-organized package. If you’re a traveler who enjoys being active outdoors but also appreciates sharing stories over good wine, this experience could be a real treat.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who value small group experiences and want to dig a little deeper into the region’s authentic side. The landscapes are remarkable, bringing to mind Colorado’s rugged scenery without leaving France, and the chance to taste some local wines at a family estate adds a lovely, genuine touch.

While you’ll need to be prepared for walking and bring your own lunch, the scenic views, interesting sites, and friendly guides make it worthwhile. For anyone craving an active, varied day that introduces them to the diverse charms of the Hérault, this tour looks like a solid pick.