Attractions and Places To See around Montels - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Montels include a variety of historical sites and natural features, primarily centered around the Canal du Midi. Located in the south of France, this region offers a blend of waterways, historical engineering marvels, and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can explore significant landmarks related to the Canal du Midi, which connects to the Mediterranean Sea. The area provides opportunities to discover unique landscapes and cultural heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Montels
- The…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
The Port of Somail
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Junction of the Canal du Midi and the Canal de la Robine
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Malpas Tunnel
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Gailhousty Lock and Spillway
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Etang de Montady viewpoint
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This is a Mediterranean lagoon that was …
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Superb site, at the downstream outlet of the Jonction canal on the Aude river. This canal, put into operation in 1787, allows to make the connection between the Canal du Midi and the Canal de la Robine de Narbonne. The Gailhousty site consists of a lock, a spillway, a bridge and a dry dock. Upstream of the lock, the canal is protected from the floods of the Aude thanks to a system of dikes which surround it up to Sallèles-d'Aude. Downstream of the lock is a space designed to be able to be submerged during heavy floods: the spillway. The bridge is designed to allow rapid access to all points of the site, is of a neat architecture, with a low arched vault and four quarter-circle staircases placed at each corner. In times of flood, it is necessary to be able to react quickly and maneuver the defense systems in time. Placed on the downstream head of the lock, it participates in the system of containing the strongest floods. The monumental spillway, 30 meters long, is located on the left bank of the canal between the Gailhousty lock and the Aude. Its front facade on the canal side is pierced with vertical crenellations that plunge into the water. At the back, it has 5 arched openings at the foot of which launches an 8km long landing channel called "La saignée" directed towards the Capestang pond. This building houses no less than 15 oversized valves. It is not intended to evacuate excess water from the Jonction canal but must allow the passage of flood water from the Aude river. Originally, it was planned that this water loaded with fertile silt would be directed into the Capestang pond to fill it and promote crops there.
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Very pretty canal, less known than the Canal du Midi, shaded. Do not miss the Gailhousty site, at the downstream outlet of the Canal de Jonction on the Aude river. This canal, put into operation in 1787, allows to make the connection between the Canal du Midi and the Canal de la Robine de Narbonne. The Gailhousty site consists of a lock, a spillway, a bridge and a dry dock. Upstream of the lock, the canal is protected from the floods of the Aude thanks to a system of dikes which surround it up to Sallèles-d'Aude. Downstream of the lock is a space designed to be able to be submerged during heavy floods: the spillway. The bridge is designed to provide rapid access to all points of the site, is of neat architecture, with a low arched vault and four quarter-circle staircases placed at each corner. During floods, it is necessary to be able to react quickly and maneuver the defense systems in time. Placed on the downstream head of the lock, it participates in the system of containing the strongest floods. The monumental spillway, 30 meters long, is located on the left bank of the canal between the Gailhousty lock and the Aude. Its front facade on the canal side is pierced with vertical crenellations that plunge into the water. At the rear, it has 5 arched openings at the foot of which launches an 8km long landing channel called "La Saignée" directed towards the Capestang pond. This building houses no less than 15 oversized valves. It is not intended to evacuate excess water from the Jonction canal but must allow the passage of flood water from the Aude river. Originally, it was planned that this water loaded with fertile silt would be directed into the Capestang pond to fill it and promote crops there.
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It is one of the most emblematic places on the canal: its buildings, its chapel, its inn, its humpback bridge, its stores, bear witness to the activity of the time around the canal. Once the work on the canal was finished, an administration was set up to manage navigation on the canal. Seven divisions were created along the canal. The Somail division covered 45 km. A passenger transport service was also set up, the stop at the Somail inn corresponded to the third day of navigation from Toulouse. The building even had a dungeon...
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A very nice little place with lots of tourists, boats and cyclists. A typical stopover for many.
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I recommend this little port of Somail with an old bookstore which is worth the detour.....
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Very beautiful, peaceful place with the stable restaurant...make a stop there...I love it
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Imposing ship tunnel on the Canal du Midi.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main historical attractions around Montels?
The region around Montels is rich in historical sites, particularly those related to the Canal du Midi. You can explore the Malpas Tunnel, Europe's first navigable canal tunnel built in 1679, offering an impressive experience. Another significant historical spot is The Port of Somail, a picturesque hamlet that was once a vital stop for post boats and has inspired many artists. Don't miss the Gailhousty Lock and Spillway, an impressive piece of engineering from 1787 connecting the Canal du Midi to the Canal de la Robine.
Are there any family-friendly activities or attractions near Montels?
Yes, several attractions around Montels are suitable for families. The Malpas Tunnel is an interesting historical site where you can walk alongside the canal. The Port of Somail offers a charming setting with its historic buildings and canal-side atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The Junction of the Canal du Midi and the Canal de la Robine is also family-friendly, with a good bike path along the canal for easy rides.
What natural features or viewpoints can I visit in the Montels area?
For natural beauty and panoramic views, head to the Etang de Montady viewpoint. From here, you can see the unique radial drainage system of the former Mediterranean lagoon, often called the 'King's Cake'. Beyond the immediate vicinity, the Hérault department offers natural sites like the Gouffre de l'Œil Doux, Forêt de Fontfroide, and Mont Caroux, providing diverse landscapes to explore.
What outdoor activities can I do near the attractions around Montels?
The area around Montels is excellent for outdoor activities, especially along the Canal du Midi. You can enjoy hiking, gravel biking, and cycling. For hiking, explore routes like the 'Malpas Tunnel – Beautiful view of the plain loop from Poilhes' or the 'Fontcalvy Barn loop from Ouveillan'. Cyclists can try the 'Malpas Tunnel – Colombiers loop from Capestang'. Find more routes and details on our dedicated guides for Hiking around Montels, Gravel biking around Montels, and Cycling around Montels.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Montels?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical significance and picturesque settings of the Canal du Midi attractions. Many find the Malpas Tunnel an impressive event, whether walking through or watching boats. The charm of The Port of Somail, with its historic buildings and canal-side atmosphere, is also highly praised. The beautiful engineering of the canal junctions and locks, like the Junction of the Canal du Midi and the Canal de la Robine, also receives positive feedback.
Are there any towns or villages worth visiting near Montels?
Yes, there are several charming towns and villages nearby. Narbonne, just 12 km away, offers attractive areas along its canal and around the cathedral, with various markets. Béziers, 16 km distant, is a lively town with interesting monuments. For a taste of local life, visit Bize-Minervois (13 km) known for its pretty houses and a swimming river, or Saint-Chinian (16 km) for its bustling markets on Thursdays and Sundays. Minerve (24 km) is also a 'Most Beautiful Village' with ancient streets to explore.
Where can I find a good viewpoint to see the landscape around Montels?
A highly recommended viewpoint is the Etang de Montady viewpoint, located above the Malpas Tunnel. From this spot, you get a clear view of the unique radial pattern of the drained Étang de Montady, which is a short and worthwhile detour from the Canal du Midi.
What is the significance of the Canal du Midi in this region?
The Canal du Midi is central to the region's attractions. It's an engineering marvel connecting to the Mediterranean Sea, featuring historical sites like the Malpas Tunnel and the Gailhousty Lock and Spillway. It also hosts picturesque spots like The Port of Somail. The canal provides excellent paths for walking, cycling, and gravel biking, making it a hub for both historical exploration and outdoor activities.
Are there any religious or abbey sites to visit near Montels?
Yes, the Fontfroide Abbey, a significant 12th-century abbey, is located about 21 km southwest of Montels. It is known for its historical importance and architectural beauty, offering a glimpse into the region's rich past.
Can I find coastal areas or beaches near Montels?
While Montels itself is inland, the Hérault department is close to the coast. Gruissan, located about 21 km away, offers a pleasure port, an old village center, and a popular beach, making it a great option for a coastal visit.
Are there any unique natural formations like caves or sinkholes nearby?
Yes, the region offers interesting natural formations. The Gouffre de l'Œil Doux, a natural sinkhole, is located about 17 km from Montels. Further afield, the Grotte de la Devèze, a cave system, is about 32 km away, providing opportunities for underground exploration.
What kind of cycling routes are available around Montels?
The area around Montels offers a variety of cycling routes, particularly along the Canal du Midi. You can find easy gravel biking routes like the 'Malpas Tunnel (Canal du Midi) – Malpas Tunnel loop from Capestang' or more challenging touring bicycle routes such as the 'Malpas Tunnel – Colombiers loop from Capestang'. Many routes feature the scenic canal paths. For more options, refer to our Cycling around Montels and Gravel biking around Montels guides.
Most popular routes around Montels
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