The Maguelone peninsula: an exceptional site between sea and lake!
The Presqu’île de Maguelone is a place of unusual beauty. Originally an island, the site has been regularly occupied since ancient times.
The religious edifice became a cathedral-fortress, the seat of the bishopric of Maguelone, in the 12th and 13th centuries, its heyday.
A bastion of the papacy in Languedoc, the prestigious cathedral was on many occasions the refuge of the popes of Rome.
For the past 50 years, this exceptional site has been enhanced by “Les Compagnons de Maguelone”, an establishment providing services and assistance through work (ESAT).
Since 1969, the association has been helping and supporting people with disabilities to enter the world of work by offering them work-related activities and accommodation, thus perpetuating the tradition of hospitality of the site.
It also works to preserve and enhance the built heritage and unique natural environment of the peninsula.
The Domaine de Maguelone: a rich blend of heritage, nature, culture and gastronomy
The Domaine de Maguelone is located just outside Montpellier, between Villeneuve lès Maguelone and Palavas les Flots.
You can reach the Maguelone peninsula and its thousand-year-old cathedral on foot, by bike or by mini-train from the Palavas les flots car park.
Pedestrian and cycle access is also possible via the Pilou car park in Villeneuve lès Maguelone.
On site, stroll in the company of majestic peacocks that roam freely in the middle of a preserved natural park, surrounded by vineyards.
Visit this majestic historic site, an ancient fortress that was the seat of a bishopric for a thousand years, on your own or with an audio-guide.
Enjoy traditional Mediterranean cuisine at the Comptoir des Compagnons, overlooking the vines and the sea.
The emphasis here is on short supply chains. The produce of the Compagnons de Maguelone is on the table, in the glass, organic wines, and on the plate, organic vegetables and fish too.
The Domaine de Maguelone is also a cultural centre, hosting exhibitions and concerts every year, notably during the Festival de Musiques Anciennes and the Festival des Voix de Maguelone.
Finally, the team offers wine and culture tours of the organic wine estate, including parts not accessible to the general public, and tastings of the vintages.
Places to discover near Presqu’ile de Maguelone
Here is a selection of places (restaurants, estates, tourist sites…) to discover around the Presqu’ile de Maguelone.
- The Domaine du Grand Puy 15 km away. This bistronomic restaurant, which is also run by the Compagnons de Maguelone, aims to help disabled people enter the world of work. This 18th-century building is also used for seminars.
- The Château de l’Engarran is 20 km away. This “Folie Montpelliéraine” is open to visitors and is an exceptional wine-growing estate.
- Domaine de Biar 20 km away. Charming, intimate accommodation and 18th-century “Folie montpelliéraine”.
- Domaine de l’Oulivie, 30 km away. A family olive-growing estate producing top-quality organic olives and olive oils.
