Looking for a thrill on two wheels in the Hérault? Lac du Salagou is THE destination for cycling enthusiasts. From our lakeside Campsite in the Hérault, discover the red soil that has seen France’s greatest champions train. An exceptional playground awaits you just a few pedal strokes away! Book your stay at our Campsite Club du Lac du Salagou.
The essentials of mountain biking at Lac du Salagou
| Type | Name / Number | Key features |
| Tours | N°1: Tour du lac | 27 km, Difficult, spectacular scenery. |
| N°12: Lakeside | 6 km, very easy, family-friendly and flat. | |
| N°7: Octon and the Causse de Toucou | 13 km, Difficult, mineral and historic. | |
| N°8: Upper valley | 13 km, Difficult, technical and wild. | |
| N°3: La Ramasse | 13 km, medium, shady with castle view. | |
| Rentals | Ozone MTB | Expert in history, electrics and framing. |
| RDV Cycles | Lakeside, children’s models and VAE. |
Mountain bike trails at Lac de Salagou
Lac du Salagou is an ideal playground for mountain bikers! Recognized as an FFC mountain-biking site, its singular geology and exceptional panoramas make it an ideal place for varied, fun and original routes.
Tour N°1: around Lake Salagou
This red-marked loop is the world-famous natural site. This mountain bike route in Salagou passes through strangely shaped areas of ruffes. The first section towards the village of Celles is easy going. The trail becomes steeper on the wild north bank. Two dry climbs await mountain bikers at the end of the loop. This is Salagou mountain biking at its most spectacular.
Tip: admire the basalt rockfill dam as you pass by.
Departure: Parking Lac du Salagou- Rives de Clermont-l’Hérault, 3 km from our Campsite.
Distance: 27 km
Average time: 4h
D+: 366 m
Level: difficult
Circuit N°12: the banks of the Salagou
This green-marked trail is ideal for a quiet family outing. The path skirts the water between creeks and reeds. It’s the perfect place to observe the lake’s birds. The terrain remains rolling despite a few narrow stretches. Beginners will appreciate this gentle introduction to the red earth, allowing them to discover the landscape without excessive fatigue. Mountain biking at Salagou is accessible to even the youngest cyclists.
Tip: enjoy the view of Mount Liausson overlooking the water.
Departure: Parking Lac du Salagou- Rives de Clermont-l’Hérault, 3 km from our Campsite.
Distance: 6 km
Average duration: 1 hour
D+: 31 m
Level: very easy
Route 7: Octon and the Toucou Causse
This red-marked trail takes you over the plateaux overlooking the village of Octon. The first climb is long and sometimes very stony. Admire the small basalt dolmens at the top of the causse. The Romanesque chapel of Notre-Dame de Roubignac is well worth a contemplative stop. The view down to the Château de Lauzières is superb. The final descent to Octon is fast on a wide track. This Salagou mountain bike trail has a more mineral and historical dimension.
Start: Parking des randonneurs, 34800 Octon, France, 18 km from our Campsite.
Average duration: 2h30
Distance: 13 km
D+: 317 m
Level: difficult
Circuit N°8: Haute Vallée and Castellas
This mountain bike trail in Salagou is designed for those who love raw technicality. You’ll climb through the red ruffes towards the village of Brenas. The route reveals geological wonders such as the Lieude slab. The view of the Castellas de Mérifons is breathtaking. The final descent is steep and demanding. The unstable rocks require perfect control of your brakes. This area is wilder and less crowded than the riverbanks.
Departure point: Place du Petit Duc, Malavieille, 34800 Mérifons, France, 13 km from our Campsite.
Distance: 13 km
Average time: 3h
D+: 321 m
Level: difficult
Circuit N°3: La Ramasse in Clermont l’Hérault
The route is considered a pleasure ride by experts. The terrain alternates between forest tracks and garrigue paths. You’ll have a breathtaking view of the old castle keep. The difficulty remains moderate, despite a few slightly steep bumps. An excellent option for a quick morning workout. The circuit is well shaded, which is rare at Salagou.
Departure: Car park at the Cave Coopérative in Clermont-l’Hérault, 5 km from our Campsite.
Distance: 13 km
Average duration: 2h30
D+: 277 m
Level: easy/medium
Mountain bike rentals near the lake
Didn’t bring your own bike? Don’t worry, our experts are waiting for you in the immediate vicinity. Don’t hesitate to ask them for mountain bike rentals and precise technical adjustments.
Ozone VTT Cycles
We’ve been Salagou’s historic mountain biking partner since 1990. You can rent classic, electric or road mountain bikes. Their qualified instructors lead enriching discovery outings. The store also sells accessories and spare parts. The team is passionate about its work, and knows every trail in the area inside out.
Address: 1OZONE VTT Cycles, du Salagou, 1 Av. du Lac, 34800 Clermont-l’Hérault, France, 5 km from our Campsite.
Tel: +33(0)4 67 96 27 17
Official website: vtt-salagou.com
RDV Cycles & Connect
This rental company is located on the Baie des Vailhés side of the lake. It offers a wide range of bikes, including children’s models. Their fleet of electric mountain bikes includes well-known brands such as Polygon. Book online or by phone during the season. Take advantage of their expertise to choose a route suited to your level.
Address: Lac du Salagou, Baie des, 34700 Celles, France 13 km from our Campsite.
Official website: rdv-cycles.fr
Tel: 07.88.05.57.71
Mountain biking at Salagou is an unforgettable experience. The red earth and technical trails have forged the site’s reputation. So, are you ready to follow in the footsteps of champions?