Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is one of France's most beautiful villages. Its inclusion on the Unesco World Heritage List is proof of its major interest. This valley, where Guilhem withdrew in 806 after founding the Gellone monastery, was a desert that only Neolithic shepherds had ever visited. This enchanting landscape of stone and sky, with its breathtaking cliffs clinging to thyme, oak and pine, is a haven of peace and tranquillity. At its heart lies the legendary town of Saint-Guilhem, a veritable oasis. Developed around the Gellone Abbey, the village is a harmonious whole where tourists flock all year round. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert and its church, a jewel of Languedoc Romanesque art, is an almost obligatory stopover on the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela, occupying a wild site at the entrance to the Verdus gorges and the Infernet cirque. Enter the Gellone Abbey, a symbol of Languedoc Romanesque art that has made Saint-Guilhem one of the greatest spiritual and cultural centers of the Languedoc region. Two relics are still housed here, those of Saint Guilhem, and a fragment of the Cross of Christ, which have become pilgrimage treasures. Concerts are programmed throughout the year in the Abbey. From the Place de la Liberté and its imposing 160-year-old plane tree, the village unfolds its narrow streets, where you can still admire Renaissance mullioned windows, geminated bays and Gothic lintels. Those who appreciate small craft stores will be delighted, as the alleyways are full of little jewels (there's even a santonnier who will be happy to show you this old-fashioned craft). Around this exceptional site, let yourself be tempted by a refreshing swim in the river. Cross the mythical Pont du Diable and the Passerelle des Anges, which offer a breathtaking and addictive panorama of the Gorges, or opt for a sporty afternoon with hiking, canoeing, paddle-boarding, canyoning or the caving tours on offer at the Grotte de Clamouse! Whether you're looking for a relaxing or dynamic vacation, the region around Saint Guilhem le Désert is waiting to welcome you, and no two days will be the same. You'll feel like you're at the end of the world when you arrive in this desert-like valley.

What to visit Saint-Guilhem-Le-Desert?

Weather at the moment

Loading...
Organize your trip with our partners Saint-Guilhem-Le-Desert
Transportation
Accommodation & stays
Services / On site

Pictures and images Saint-Guilhem-Le-Desert

Le village de Saint-Guilhem-Le-Désert situé sur l'un des chemins historiques de Saint-Jacques de Compostelle Stéphan SZEREMETA
Vue de Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert Pat on stock - Fotolia

Find unique Stay Offers with our Partners

Send a reply