Excursion Pezenas & abbey of valmagne tour at Sete
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Experience the scenic, Old World beauty of the Languedoc region during this half-day excursion that combines a walking tour of the old market town of Pezenas with a visit to the Abbey of Valmagne. Pezenas contains narrow streets to explore with some grand 17th century homes and its town centre was one of the first in France to be protected as an historic monument. The Abbey of Valmagne was one of the richest Cistercian abbeys in southern France from the 12th to the early 14th century.
Depart the pier for the approximate 30-minute drive to the charming little town of Pezenas.
Pezenas
A former fortified Roman city and the seat of the government of Languedoc, today Pezenas is a city of artists. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour through the Old City. Along the way, see the narrow roads, 17th-century mansions with elegant balconies and ornate doorways, and visit the Roman Catholic Church. There is a well preserved Jewish ghetto dating from the middle ages and one of the most important religious monuments in Pezenas is the 18th century Collegiale Church of Saint-Jean.
Following your guided tour, some free time is made available for you to explore the fine array of artisans' shops before re-boarding the coach for the brief drive to the Abbey of Valmagne.
Abbey of Valmagne
Originally founded under the Benedictine order in 1138 by Raymond Trencavel, the Abbey of Valmagne became one of the richest Cistercian abbeys in the South of France during the 12th and 13th centuries, housing up to 3,200 monks.
Upon arrival, visit all of the elements of a typical abbey; the cloister and its charming Tuscany garden, the Chapter House and the Gothic church that has become a cellar for Valmagne with organic wines from the Languedoc Roussillon.
Your tour concludes with the return drive to the pier.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Pezenas City, Old City, Roman Catholic Church, Abbey of Valmagne, Cloister, Tuscany Garden, Chapter House, Gothic Church
Note
Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 700m (1/2 mile) with some steps in Pezenas and at the visited venue, and is not recommended for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, walking shoes and have sun protection. This tour has limited participation, but requires a minimum number of participants to operate. Tour sequence may vary.