Discover Montady

Montady can be understood through its history and landscape: the Étang de Montady is notable for its drainage system, while the Tour de Montady reflects the history of architecture. There is also a 27-kilometre cycling loop. Another area of interest is winegrowing and local produce, including the guided tour of the Domaine de Soustres wine cellar and sunflower oil from the Domaine de Roquefeuille. This lets you choose what to focus on based on your interests—from water management and heritage to cycling and wine.

The Étang de Montady and its drainage system

The Étang de Montady was drained in the mid-13th century by means of 60 drainage ditches. Its circular shape and the straight, radially arranged ditches together describe the layout of the system: the ditches lead to a central collector called the Redondel. The form is therefore closely linked to its function. The Étang is of interest not only as a landscape feature, but also as an example of a hydro-agricultural drainage system.

This system is still in operation today. Two time periods are therefore important to understanding it: the drainage, with its 60 ditches, dates to the mid-13th century, while the system continues to function. Those interested in historic water management will find here a connection between landscape change and ongoing use. The Redondel, the radial ditches and the circular layout are different parts of the same system.

Tour de Montady: architectural history and heritage protection

The Tour de Montady offers a different focus from the large-scale water system. Its main construction phase dates to the 12th century; it has been listed as a historic monument since 21 March 1960. The dates refer to different things: the 12th century marks the construction phase, while 1960 marks the beginning of its listed status. For those interested in cultural history, this offers a separate perspective on a medieval building and its protected status, alongside the history of the Étang.

Cycling loop 22

The 27-kilometre cycling loop 22 leads to a panoramic view over the drained Étang de Montady. It is a practical way to combine the landscape with a cycling trip. Unlike the Tour de Montady, where architectural history takes centre stage, this route focuses on the former Étang and its drainage landscape. The route length gives you a useful point of reference when considering this activity for your trip.

Winegrowing and local produce

The Domaine de Soustres offers a free guided tour of its wine cellar. The tour covers the process from grape harvest to bottle; the pressing room, barrel room and history of the estate are also presented. The Domaine is situated on the hill of the Oppidum d’Ensérune and has a historic vineyard that has been cultivated since antiquity. The tour, rooms and history of winegrowing offer different ways to explore the subject: from the production process and cellar facilities to the vineyard’s long history.

Another product is associated with the Domaine de Roquefeuille: located in the heart of the Étang de Montady, it produces sunflower oil. The two examples have different emphases—at Soustres, the focus is on wine and the guided cellar tour; at Roquefeuille, it is on sunflower oil and the stated location in the Étang. Together, they complement the historical and landscape themes with agriculture and production.

Discover more destinations: Lieuran-lès-Béziers, Liausson, Lagamas, Roquebrun, Puimisson, Montels, Nézignan-L'evêque, Saint-Drézéry.

For the wider travel overview: Hérault.