Discover Bessan through a range of themes: the history of the Oppidum of La Monédière, the Plateau des Mègeries protected area, and specialities such as La Croustade and rosé. When planning your trip, you can decide whether to focus more on archaeology, landscapes, local produce or an activity.
Landscape and history
The Monts Ramus are a chain of three volcanic cones. The Plateau des Mègeries offers a different landscape: this 33-hectare Natura 2000 site is located in Bessan, in the Hérault department. Vineyards, cultivated land and fallow fields lie side by side there. Guided tours of the plateau are organised as part of the Fête de la Nature. Before your trip, check whether any dates have been announced.
La Monédière adds an archaeological dimension. The oppidum was mainly inhabited from the beginning of the 6th to the end of the 5th century BC. As a reference site for regional protohistory, it also provides a focus for exploring the relationships between the Greeks and local populations. Its historical period and research significance give it a different character from the protected area, with its present-day mix of vineyards, cultivated land and fallow fields.
A tangible trace of the town’s history has also been preserved in its historic centre: the Saint-Pierre Gate is the only surviving gate from Bessan’s former fortifications. Those interested in history can consider this architectural remnant as a distinct facet of the town alongside the much older story of La Monédière.
Local specialities and produce
La Croustade is a puff pastry tart typical of Bessan. Its filling contains raisins or chocolate, as well as walnuts; the recipe was created just over a century ago. The tart is available at most local bakeries. If you particularly want to try it, ask about current availability before your trip.
Maison ETIENNE offers guided tours seasonally. They include information about the history of coffee, a coffee roasting demonstration and an introduction to tasting. As the tour is offered seasonally, check current booking availability.
Le Moulin du Mont Ramus operates a farm with 30,000 olive trees and produces olive oil, table olives, tapenade and cosmetics. If you are interested in any of these products, check the current selection. Another local speciality is Bessan rosé: since its founding in 1938, the Cave Coopérative de Bessan has focused on making rosé wines. Visitors can taste the rosé at the cooperative winery; tasting arrangements may vary.
Activities and events
Bessan Aventure offers three courses for all levels: Découverte, Rando and Orientation. If this activity is important to your travel plans, ask about the current availability of the courses. The names distinguish the three options, while “for all levels” describes what they have in common.
A recurring event in the annual calendar is the Fête de la Saint-Laurent, held every year in early August. The specific programme may vary, so check the dates and events for your travel period. Along with the seasonal tours on the plateau and at Maison ETIENNE, checking specific dates can help you match your interests to the current events calendar.
Discover more destinations: Lauroux, Brissac, Montady, Mourèze, Palavas-Les-Flots, Ceilhes-Et-Rocozels, Lunel, Pouzolles.
For the broader travel guide: Hérault.
