Mountains
and sunny valleys
The Orb takes its source in the limestones
hights of the southern edge of causses of Larzac and
runs out in the Mediterranean sea near Valras beach
after having crossed the town of Béziers, it
is nearly 150 km long. It crosses the mountainous landscapes
of the mounts of Orb, forms small gorges before running
out in the middle of the plains of the Biterrois and
meeting the Mediterranean. He runs through green and
wild landscapes but also typical Mediterranean landscapes
such as vineyards .
- The lake of Avène, was artificialy
created when the dam was built. Water srpeads on over
190 ha in the middle of the mountains, pin trees ect...
It is a particulary wild lac particulary appreciated
by people who enjoy the outdoors however there are no
specially built spots for swimming and sunbathing. The
place is nontheless magical thanks to its peace and
quiet!
If you go down along the Orb, you can stop in the little
village of Avène on the mountain side in order
to refresh yoursel and take a small walk through its
charming streets and go up to the cementary which has
a astonishing view on the surrondings. Situated 2km
from there the Bains d'Avène have become again
a place of body care thank to the water's of Avene therapeutic
vertus. These were known since the XIX century for the
treatment of certain skin diseases. The water is also
used for the fabrication of pharmaceutical products
such as creams and gels which are then sold all over
France.
You can go along Orb for about another 15km before discovering
the château de Cazilhac on your left. This little
castle and its very characteristic two square towers
sits on top of a landscape of vineyards and fields.
You can visit the gardens the terrasses which will offer
a splendid view on Orb
The thermal town of Lamalou les Bains situated 20 km
from there is more touristic and developped than the
Bains d'Avène. It has many shops and hotels.
It is a perfect resting place for those who wish to
continue their journey either north towards the Parc
Régional du Haut Languedoc or south towards the
gorges de l'Orb.
- The gorges of the Orb form after
Orb makes a turn towards the south at the level of Tarrassac
about 15km from Lamalou les Bains. There Orb starts
is way down towards the sea and crosses typically mediterranean
landscapes. If you go along the D14 by the gorges, you
will get to the village of Roquebrun. The mildness of
its climat makes it the perfect places for all sorts
of plants to grow. There is a mediterranean garden full
of strange plants such as rare species of cactuses cultivated
in this garden...
Nb: No free visits, for more info call 04 67 89 55 29
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begin the discovery at the level of the Lake of
Avène, take N109 then A75 until Lodève,
cross the city and follow Lunas Bédarieux,
set on the right to the Bousquet d' Orb towards
Avène. |
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