The Canal du Midi crosses the Cers area for approximately one kilometre. Other highlights include the Church of Saint-Geniès, the Fontaine Vieille and activities related to cycling and wine. This offers different ways to get to know Cers: by the water, through its historical landmarks or on a tour of the wine-growing countryside.

Walk and cycle along the Canal du Midi

The Canal du Midi has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. At Cers, it is used for recreational boating; paths along its banks are suitable for walks and cycling tours. The canal itself and its banks therefore offer different options for planning your day: you can watch recreational boating on the water or set aside time for a tour along the banks.

There is a cycle path along the Canal du Midi in Cers. The “Autour de Cers” mountain biking circuit is also listed as a local option. Those planning a bike ride can therefore choose between the path beside the canal and an option specifically designated as a circuit.

The church and Fontaine Vieille: two historical traces

The first documented mention of the Church of Saint-Geniès de Cers dates back to 1107. A pre-Romanesque stone carved with acanthus leaves is set into its façade. These are two distinct details to note about the church: 1107 marks its first documented mention, while the pre-Romanesque designation refers to the stone.

Another trace of the town’s history is the Fontaine Vieille. It was built in 1639 as a public fountain with a watering trough for livestock and a washhouse. The complex thus combined a water source and a place for washing; the watering trough was also part of its original function. Restored and moved to the courtyard of the town hall in 2004, the Fontaine Vieille now stands in a different location from its original one. The church and fountain therefore tell the story of Cers in different ways: one is associated with an early written mention and a detail on its façade, while the other is linked to public use and its later relocation.

Wine route and tasting

The Route des vins – Les vins de Riquet is listed as a 32.9-kilometre loop. It is described as taking four hours and rated “very easy.” One section is titled “De Cers à Villeneuve-lès-Béziers.” These details make the tour a standalone option for planning your trip; practical route information may change. So check the latest details before setting out.

For another way to explore the wines of Cers, Domaine Delonca offers tastings of red, white and rosé wines in its sales cellar. The wines are available in bottles and bag-in-box packaging. Check the current opening arrangements before visiting.

Whether you would rather spend your time by the canal and on a cycling tour, exploring historical details or enjoying a wine tasting, these highlights offer different ways to discover Cers.

Discover more destinations: Canet, Aniane, Aigues-Vives, Saint-Saturnin-De-Lucian, Autignac, Loupian, Roquebrun, Moulès-Et-Baucels.

For the broader travel overview: Hérault.