Cirque de Mourèze

An astounding geological phenomenon, Cirque (Circus) de Mourèze is located in the Languedoc-Roussillon region, more specifically the Hérault section of Southern France. Bear witness to the wonders of nature at work and the impressive structures it creates.

Through 160 million years of erosion, these expansive mountains (741 acres) of Mourèze have resulted in beautifully shaped rock formations. You may feel as if these dolomite giants are walking alongside you as you traverse the available hiking paths. 

Choose between beginner or intermediate hiking routes. The information center is available for consultation, providing a map that shows other sites you can see on the long trek. Keep an eye out for eagles, owls, and the most robust species of scorpion in all of France (Languedocian Scorpion).

The quaint medieval town of Mourèze resides down below this 1-2 mile stretch. A museum couples this hike, displaying prehistoric artifacts found from the Iron Age, around 350 BC. The town Of Mourèze has seen its share of trauma, from the Black Plague in 1347, bearing the brunt of the Wars of Religion in the 16th century (1562–98) and the Great Plague of Provence in 1720. Otherwise, much of the city’s history remains unknown, which instills a curious fascination.

Only 200 residents currently reside in Mourèze and see 100,000 tourists per year, sustaining the town’s economy annually.