St Guilhem du Desert and Gellone Abbey
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Port
Sete, France
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Activity Level
Easy Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$110
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
"Santiago de Compostela was the supreme goal for countless thousands of pious pilgrims who converged there from all over Europe throughout the Middle Ages. To reach Spain pilgrims had to pass through France, and the group of important historical monuments included in this inscription marks out the four routes by which they did so."
Visit Saint Guilhem Le Desert -- a pretty village built around an old abbey. As remarkable as the history of the abbey may be, the natural surroundings are equally noteworthy, for the village lies at the mouth of a wildly scenic river gorge.
En route to Saint Guilhem Le Desert, you will first pass the exceptional natural landscape of the Herault Gorges. Watch for the Pont du Diable bridge, built in the 11th century by Benedictine monks.
The village's history is inextricably intertwined with that of the Benedictine abbey here, which holds the relic of the Cross and the tomb of Saint Guilhem. It was a major stopping place on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. Follow your guide through the maze of narrow streets and up to the UNESCO World Heritage site Gellone Abbey. You'll discover that it is a truly fine example of the first Romanesque style of architecture. Step inside to admire the rather austere interior of beautiful, biscuit-colored stone.
You will also have some free time to stroll through the village on your own.
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes.