Hérault’s diverse landscape makes it a popular choice for expats. During the warm summer months, you can soak up the sun on the golden sand beaches at Carnon, Palavas les Flots or Cap d’Agde. Whether you prefer lounging on the beach, playing games with the grandchildren or trying your hand at water sports, there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied. The famous seaside resort of La Grande Motte is perfect for family beach days, while the sheltered stretch of fine sand at Vias Plage offers a relaxed and secluded setting for couples.
The winter months are mild, so you can take advantage of the glorious coastal walks all year round. Lively towns and cities such as Pézenas, Béziers and capital Montpellier are ideal for day trips and unforgettable nights out. Hérault is home to three ‘Les Plus Beaux Villages de France’, and there are countless pretty villages to explore in the local area.
When you’re feeling adventurous, the Cévennes mountains are within easy reach. Hikers and walkers can explore a variety of scenic walks and take in magnificent views from the cliffs of Pic Saint-Loup. You can spend a day in nature at the Natural Park of Haut-Languedoc, which is home to over 240 different types of birds. With rolling hills, forest landscapes and pretty villages to explore, the scenery here is truly breathtaking.
Wine, fish and fresh seafood are available in abundance throughout the Languedoc-Roussillon area. Local specialities in Hérault include sweet asparagus, brightly-coloured sweets, sweet Muscat white wine and small spiced mince tarts.
Cost of Living
If you’re considering buying or renting a property in Hérault, you can choose between various styles. If quiet village life appeals, you could opt for a cosy stone cottage in one of the picturesque villages by the sea or even a farmhouse with land. City slickers might prefer to go for a stylish apartment in Montpellier.
Whichever property style you prefer, the average price in Hérault is higher than in France overall, and it is the most expensive area in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. In Montpellier, you can expect to pay in the region of €709 per month to rent a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre or €575 per month to rent a one-bedroom apartment outside the city centre.
To buy a property in Montpellier, you can expect to pay in the region of €5,700 per square metre for a city centre apartment. If your budget doesn’t stretch that far, you could consider living in one of the smaller towns or villages.
The general cost of living in Hérault will vary according to the village, town or city you choose to live in. In Montpellier, you can expect to pay monthly bills of around €784 (excluding rent or mortgage payments).
If you plan to work in France, the average salary in Hérault is around €38,700.
History and Culture
Living in Hérault means you’ll have the chance to enjoy an authentic taste of the French lifestyle and traditions. Heritage and culture are part of day-to-day life for people living in Hérault. From street entertainment and festivals to historic buildings and castles, there’s always something new to discover.
Montpellier is the capital of Hérault. Previously the capital of the entire Languedoc-Roussillon region, it’s the third biggest city on the Mediterranean coastline. Popular with students, the Universite de Montpellier first opened in 1289, making it one of the oldest universities in the world.
Must-see sights in Montpellier include the Place de la Comedie, a bustling and lively square that’s brimming with restaurants, cafes and street entertainers. Look out for the fine architecture all over the city, particularly the beautiful hotels and 17th-century mansions.
History-lovers should make a beeline to the small town of Pézenas, where you can discover over 30 historical monuments. You'll find lots to admire, from courtyards and decorative facades to stone staircases and mansions. Friday nights are estivale nights, which means the shops are open late, the local vineyards sell wine on the streets, and the centre of town is buzzing with street entertainment.
In August, around one million people visit Béziers for the Feria de Béziers. This exciting five-day cultural event includes bullfighting and late-night street parties. By day, you can marvel at the architectural delights, including The Plateau des Poetes, a huge park with statues of famous poets, and the Roman Catholic Cathédrale Saint-Nazaire, which dates back to the 13th century.
Weather and Air Quality
Most of Hérault enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm, sunny summers and mild, wet winters. Up in the mountains to the northwest, there is an oceanic influence, and some parts of northern Hérault are affected by a temperate continental influence.
During the summer months, the temperature in Hérault tends to be between 27 degrees Celsius by the sea and 32 degrees Celsius inland. The sea helps to protect the coastal areas from extreme heat during summer and frost during winter.
The air quality is generally considered to be satisfactory by most people living in Hérault. The risk of air pollution is low, although people with sensitivities may experience mild to moderate symptoms from long-term exposure to the air.