Visit the 9 Fonséranes locks in Béziers
Discover one of the treasures of the region’s heritage during your stay at Camping Les Cigales: the famous 9 locks at Fonséranes. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this emblematic site in Béziers embodies all the ingenuity and charm of the Canal du Midi. Located just twenty minutes from the campsite, they promise a memorable visit with family or friends.
History and heritage of the 9 locks
Built in the 17ᵉ century under the impetus of Pierre-Paul Riquet, the Fonséranes locks are an exceptional feat of engineering, enabling boats to cross an impressive vertical drop. Spanning almost 300 meters, they make up for a difference in level of over 21 meters thanks to a staircase system of eight successive basins.
This unique construction, still in operation, bears witness to the genius of the engineers of the time. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it attracts thousands of visitors every year, curious to discover its workings and history. Located at the entrance to Béziers, the hydraulic complex blends perfectly into the landscape, offering superb views of the surrounding hills.
Educational panels along the way explain the origins of the project, the work undertaken over the centuries, and the importance of the site in the history of river trade. When you visit the Fonséranes locks, you’ll be taking in a piece of the region’s history, while enjoying a peaceful, shady natural setting, ideal for a cultural stroll during your stay at Camping Les Cigales.

An immersive immersive tour
The Villa Laurens offers an immersive tour experience, accessible only on guided tours to preserve this fragile site. Accompanied by a guide, you’ll discover the different rooms of the house: decorated salons, library, music room, winter garden and private bedrooms. Each room has its own unique atmosphere, ranging from colorful exuberance to antique-inspired sobriety.
Sound reconstructions, interactive elements and anecdotes punctuate the visit, making the experience accessible to all audiences, including families. Depending on the season, the villa also hosts temporary exhibitions on architecture, decorative art and local history. Classical music concerts and conferences are regularly held in the salons or on the terraces. From the heights of the property, the panoramic view of the banks of the Hérault, Mont Saint-Loup and the town of Agde is worth the detour alone. Villa Laurens is a lively, multi-faceted place, at the crossroads of the arts, memory and landscape.
Access and practical information from Camping Les Cigales
From Camping Les Cigales in Pézenas, it’s a 30-35 minute drive to Villa Laurens, nestled at the entrance to the town of Agde, right on the banks of the Hérault. Access is easy by car, with parking available just a few meters from the site entrance. You are strongly advised to book your visit in advance, especially during the summer months, as the number of slots is limited. Times vary according to the season, and tours are led by specialized guides, available in French or English.
The campsite can help you make your reservation, provide you with brochures, and offer picnic baskets on request if you wish to extend your day in Agde. A visit to the villa can be complemented by a tour of the town’s historic center, rich in listed monuments, or by a stroll along the banks of the Hérault. To enhance your stay, explore our pages on accommodation, services and activities from the campsite.