An outstanding natural environment
Nature
Le Massif du Caroux
The Massif du Caroux is a natural headland at an altitude of 1000 to 1100 meters. From its peak, visitors can enjoy a view that stretches from Canigou to the Pic Saint-Loup mountain and to the peaks of the Rhone Valley. It represents the southernmost feature of a massif towards the east, following Espinouse. The Caroux face is a high rectangular surface covering 360 hectares, a fragment of the southern Cevennes range and covered with a thin layer of heather and coniferous trees.
The Caroux lies at the crossroads of three botanical territories and vegetable growers:
- First, there is Mediterranean vegetation, dominated by oak trees and chestnut groves,
- Then, small shrubs appear indicating the presence of the mountain, with hazel and beech trees,
- And finally, a flat area covered with heather.
Le Mouflon du Caroux – Espinouse
The Corsican moufflon is the wild equivalent of a domestic sheep, introduced into the Caroux-Espinouse area in 1956. The current population is one of the largest in the country, and undoubtedly the best preserved. The males feature large rear-facing horns (around the age of 7-8 years old, they form an almost complete curl). Many females also have horns, but they are much shorter and more delicate than those of their male counterparts.
The droséra
Here you will find the droséra (the venus fly-trap), the most famous of carnivorous plants. Look more closely and it's easy to see insects trapped on their sticky surfaces. Attracted by sugars contained in the adhesive, insects quickly become prisoners. Gradually the surface folds in two and in just a few minutes, closes over the body of the insect in order to eat it! Afterwards, it opens and again sets its trap for future victims. In summer, a single square foot of these plants can capture up to 2000 midges! Used for the manufacture of drugs against tuberculosis in certain European countries, they are protected by law in France.
Walking tours
Take a walking tour!
Download our walking tour guide
Complete tour descriptions and detailed maps can be found in "Hérault on foot" guide on sale in bookshops.
From simple walking tours to hiking expeditions, anything is possible. The GR7 allows for some serious hiking, for example in Caroux et l’Espinouse.
Weekly walking tours: les Marcheurs du Caroux. For more information, call: +33 (0)4 67 95 68 49
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