Thau lagoon at sunrise
Territory · Heritage

Villeveyrac: Valmagne Abbey livens up the autumn half-term

Villeveyrac (abbaye de Valmagne)

  • Event dates 17 October 2026 – 31 October 2026
  • Place Villeveyrac (abbaye de Valmagne)
  • Theme Heritage
  • Area Thau lagoon
  • Published

From 17 to 31 October, the Cistercian abbey of Valmagne, founded in 1139, runs "Octobre à Valmagne": meetings with craftspeople in the Gothic naves, games and afternoon snacks for families, and lantern-lit night tours by reservation.

During the autumn school holidays, from 17 to 31 October 2026, Valmagne Abbey in Villeveyrac opens its doors for an autumn programme. This Cistercian historic monument, founded in 1139, is described by the tourist office as one of the Hérault's Cistercian gems.

Local makers and craftspeople exhibit and sell their work in the great Gothic naves and medieval gardens, blending heritage and contemporary craft.

For families, the abbey offers games to explore the monument in a fun way (treasure trails, quizzes, educational activities), followed by a seasonal afternoon snack.

The highlight is the lantern-lit night tours, which reveal the 12th-century naves, the cloisters, the gardens and the 18th-century wine vats in a hushed atmosphere. They must be booked directly with the abbey (04 67 78 47 32), and places are limited.

Daytime activities are included in the entry ticket. The abbey is open Tuesday to Friday from 2 pm to 6 pm, and from 10 am to 6 pm at weekends and on public holidays. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the visit. The Pass Sites d'Exception is accepted.

Source : archipel-thau.com →

The guide’s letter

The best of Hérault, once a month

1 letter a month, the first at the end of October: what’s on during the autumn half-term (Toussaint), addresses around the Thau lagoon and walk ideas. Free.