Attractions and places to see around Verreries-De-Moussans are situated within the Haut-Languedoc Regional Natural Park, a region known for its natural heritage and historical glassmaking legacy. The commune is largely forested, forming part of the eastern Montagne Noire, and is geographically marked by the Thoré River. This area offers a blend of historical sites and diverse natural landscapes, providing opportunities for exploration.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
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Located in the Jaur valley, in the heart of the Hauts cantons of the Hérault, Riols is a vast rural village typical of the Haut-Languedoc. The village is intimately linked to the history of the abbey of Saint-Pons-de-Thomières, founded in the 10th century, on which it long depended. From the Middle Ages onwards, Riols was part of a network of monastic possessions. Even today, the old center retains its valley setting, crossed by the Jaur, around which the main routes and activities developed. The Pont-Vieux and several structures on the river bear witness to this close relationship between the village and its watercourse.
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Passing the mountain pass between Aude and Hérault
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The village of Riols, a small industrial center specializing in draperies and woolens in the 19th century, is located on the "Passa Païs" greenway. Points of interest include the Banasse bridge over the Jaur river, the Church of Saint Peter and Paul, and its main thoroughfare, Rue Basse.
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The town of Riols is located between Saint Pons de Thomières and Olargues, on the Passa Païs greenway. On either side of the Jaur valley, from Lake Vesoles to the former 19th-century Ardouane Abbey, this very large town has many hiking trails leading to the Monts du Somail. The magnificent Banasse bridge over the Jaur, as well as the Saint-Pierre-et-Paul church and the layout of Rue Basse, the main artery, bear witness to the prosperity of the textile industry, particularly drapery, from the 16th century. From the village, a small road leads to the Cabarétou pass, a real challenge for sporty cyclists. The Passa Païs Greenway invites fans of gentle journeys to daydream... The Notre-Dame-de-Trédos chapel, as emblematic as it is majestic, is worth the hike or bike ride leading to its doors. Our tips for starting your bike, walking, trail rides... in Riols: - The Place du Foirail car park is ideal if you are using your vehicle to get to the start. It is located on the right bank of the Jaur, south of the village. - Riols is served by LIO / Hérault Transport bus lines 682 and 685: https://plan.lio-occitanie.fr/fr/horaires/Riols/arret/RIOLS%20-%20CENTRE/LIO:1002511 - During the summer, from the beginning of July to the end of September, between Saint Pons de Thomières and Bédarieux, the buses on line 682 are equipped with racks allowing the transport of 6 bikes. A telephone reservation service is set up (09 72 57 44 45). A little bit of history: The history of Riols is linked to that of Saint-Pons-de-Thomières: in 936, the founding act of the abbey mentions the donation made to the monastery by Raymond Pons, Count of Toulouse, of the lands of Tarbouriech, Coumayres, Condades, Cassillac and Rieulets. In 940, the Archbishop of Narbonne gave the churches of Saint-Pierre-de-Riols and Notre-Dame-de-Tredos to the Abbot of Saint-Pons. In 1318, when the diocese of Saint-Pons was created, the Abbot became bishop and the monks formed the chapter of the cathedral. The income of the abbey was then separated: in Riols, the chapter retained the seigneurial rights over the lands of Garrigues, while the bishop retained the rest of the seigneury. During the Revolution, the rare possessions of the clergy and emigrants were sold. In the 19th century, Riols, with more than 2,000 inhabitants, became a small industrial center, with more than a dozen clothiers and wool mills.
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Due to its position on its rocky spur. Due to its impressive geography made up of two rivers which converge at this place and form canyons. With its two natural tunnels, Minerve is one of the most beautiful villages in France. Its popularity is also explained by the excellent wines that its hillsides produce.
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Verreries-De-Moussans is nestled within the Haut-Languedoc Regional Natural Park, offering a rich natural heritage. You can explore the scenic Le Brian river, known for its gorges and opportunities for walking and swimming. The Thoré River also geographically marks the territory, forming a deep valley along the northern part of the Montagne Noire. The area is largely wooded, with extensive forests of the Montagne Noire providing a preserved environment for exploration.
Yes, the region offers numerous hiking trails. While the "Sentier du Terrier" was temporarily closed in early 2026, other routes like the Circuit around the Plateau de Sales provide varied landscapes and panoramic views of the Montagne Noire and Minervois. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes around Verreries-De-Moussans, including trails like 'View of the Montagne Noire – Serre d'Alaric loop from Sales' and 'Col du Moulin loop from Labastide-Rouairoux'.
The village itself has a rich glassmaking legacy from the 15th to 19th centuries. You can visit the Église Saint-Thomas, dating back to 1686, which is significant as the only church on the oceanic side of the Hérault department. The Old Village Kiln (Four à Pain) in Bardou, accessible via a 1km blue-marked trail, offers a glimpse into the village's past. Nearby, the settlement of Minerve is a must-see historical site, once a Cathar fortress.
The area is excellent for cycling, particularly along the Passa Païs greenway, which follows an old railway line through forested areas. This unpaved route is suitable for hybrid, mountain, and gravel bikes. You can find more detailed road cycling routes and gravel biking routes around Verreries-De-Moussans, including loops like 'Loop of the Gorges du Banquet' and 'Voie Verte Passa Païs – Labastide Tunnel loop'.
Yes, the natural park setting provides many opportunities for families. The Passa Païs greenway is a great option for family bike rides or walks. The village of Riols, located on the greenway, is also noted as family-friendly. Exploring the forests and rivers, such as Le Brian, offers natural adventures for all ages.
The region is generally pleasant for outdoor activities, but specific trail conditions can vary. For instance, the "Sentier du Terrier" was temporarily closed in early 2026 due to weather. Generally, spring and autumn offer mild temperatures ideal for hiking and cycling. Summer is also popular, especially for activities involving rivers like Le Brian, which is perfect for swimming.
The name "Verreries" directly translates to "glassworks," reflecting the village's rich past as a center for glassmaking. From the 15th to the 19th century, this craft was traditionally practiced by "gentlemen glassmakers," utilizing the abundant wood from the surrounding forests of the Montagne Noire.
The region, being part of the Montagne Noire, offers several elevated points with beautiful views. The "Sentier du Terrier" hiking trail, when open, provides a beautiful view of the Col d'Usclats. Other mountain passes like Col de Balagou are also points of interest. Hiking routes such as 'View of the Montagne Noire – Serre d'Alaric loop from Sales' are designed to showcase the panoramic vistas of the area.
Absolutely. Besides Minerve, a settlement on a rock at the confluence of two rivers, you can visit Riols, a village on the Passa Païs greenway with historical ties to the textile industry. Another charming option is Ferrals-les-Montagnes, a hidden medieval village within the Causses du Minervois and part of the Natura 2000 network.
While Verreries-De-Moussans is rural, some nearby villages offer public transport connections. For example, the village of Riols is served by LIO / Hérault Transport bus lines 682 and 685. During summer, buses on line 682 between Saint Pons de Thomières and Bédarieux are equipped with bike racks, which can be useful for accessing parts of the Passa Païs greenway and connecting to various trails. It's advisable to check current schedules and services for specific routes.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse natural landscapes and historical charm. The Passa Païs greenway is loved for its scenic course through trees, while Minerve is praised for its unique setting and historical significance. The gorges of Le Brian are highlighted for their beauty and opportunities for walking and swimming. The komoot community has shared over 240 photos and given more than 310 upvotes, reflecting a strong appreciation for the area's offerings.
Yes, the region offers opportunities for wild swimming. The river Le Brian is noted for its beautiful course and is perfect for swimming. The Thoré River, which marks the territory, also provides scenic spots where visitors can enjoy pauses by the river, particularly along hiking trails.


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