4.5
(66)
330
hikers
33
hikes
Hiking around Nissan-Lez-Enserune offers diverse landscapes, from ancient historical sites to tranquil waterways. The region is characterized by the prominent Oppidum d'Ensérune, providing panoramic views, and the unique, sun-shaped Étang de Montady. The UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi also winds through the area, offering flat, shaded paths, while vineyards and hills contribute to varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
4.4
(18)
113
hikers
8.36km
02:14
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(12)
27
hikers
12.8km
03:25
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.3
(6)
10
hikers
3.29km
00:54
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
9
hikers
3.28km
00:53
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
28
hikers
3.24km
00:54
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The Montady pond is a former pond, drained during the Middle Ages, located in the western part of the French department of Hérault, between Béziers and Narbonne. Thanks to drainage canals, the water is channeled towards a central collector, which explains the star-shaped layout of the fields and vineyards. This canal system dates back to the 13th century. Sixty drainage ditches converge at the circular ditch, called the Redondel, in the center of the former pond. The water is then carried away by a counter-sloping ditch towards the Capestang pond and through a tunnel under the Ensérune hill and the Malpas tunnel. The tunnel is located at a depth of 29.5 meters below the Malpas pass and 16 meters below the Canal du Midi tunnel. The pond is visible from the Montady tower, a remnant of the former 12th-century castle, and from the top of the hill, the Ensérune oppidum. Heavy rainfall, like that at the end of October 2019, can cause it to reappear. (Wikipedia)
0
0
A beautiful path along the Canal du Midi. Sometimes a bit challenging, but always worth it.
0
0
This oppidum housed an ancient village dating from the 6th century BC. What surprises here is the incredible view of the Montady pond. This former artificial body of water is now dry. It had a rather special irrigation system developed in the 13th century CE. Drainage canals brought water to a central collector. This explains the very particular arrangement of stars observable from this height.
1
0
Imposing ship tunnel on the Canal du Midi.
2
0
Canal tunnel and view of the former pond landscape.
3
0
Nice way along the Canal du Midi.
1
0
There are over 30 hiking routes around Nissan-Lez-Enserune, offering a variety of experiences from easy strolls to moderate treks. The komoot community has explored these trails over 300 times.
Yes, Nissan-Lez-Enserune offers over 20 easy hiking routes. Many of these are relatively flat and accessible, especially those along the Canal du Midi, which provide shaded paths perfect for leisurely walks. A good example is the Beautiful view of the plain – Etang de Montady loop from Colombiers, which is just under 2 miles long.
The region is rich in history. You can explore the ancient Oppidum d'Ensérune, an archaeological site with panoramic views, or walk along the UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi, passing impressive structures like the Fonseranes Locks. The Etang de Montady viewpoint – Malpas Tunnel loop from Colombiers takes you past the historic Malpas Tunnel, where three tunnels (drainage, railway, and Canal du Midi) overlap.
Yes, many trails in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular options include the Etang de Montady viewpoint – Malpas Tunnel loop from Colombiers (8.4 km) and the shorter Malpas Tunnel – Malpas Tunnel loop from Colombiers (3.5 km).
For breathtaking views, hike to the Etang de Montady viewpoint, which offers panoramic vistas of the distinctive sun-shaped Étang de Montady and the surrounding Languedoc plains. The View of the Étang de Montady highlight is also a great spot. Trails around the Oppidum d'Ensérune also provide expansive views towards the Cévennes, Pyrenees, and even the Mediterranean on clear days.
Many trails in Nissan-Lez-Enserune are suitable for dogs, especially the flat, open paths along the Canal du Midi and through vineyards. Always keep your dog on a leash, especially near agricultural areas or wildlife, and ensure you carry enough water for both of you.
Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking in Nissan-Lez-Enserune, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summer can be warm, but trails along the Canal du Midi provide welcome shade from plane trees. Winter offers cooler, crisp days, often with fewer crowds.
While most routes are easy to moderate, there are 14 moderate trails available for those seeking a bit more challenge. These often involve more elevation gain and varied terrain through vineyards and hills, extending into the wider Hérault department. The Moulin – Moulin Delon loop from Puech de Grange is a moderate 6.2 km route with over 100 meters of elevation gain.
Parking is generally available near popular trailheads and villages like Colombiers and Nissan-Lez-Enserune itself. For trails around the Oppidum d'Ensérune or along the Canal du Midi, designated parking areas are usually provided to accommodate visitors.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from ancient historical sites and the unique Étang de Montady to the tranquil paths along the Canal du Midi. The well-maintained trails and scenic viewpoints are frequently highlighted.
Yes, the Canal du Midi is a central feature for hiking in the region. Numerous routes utilize the canal's historic towpaths, which are now greenways. These paths are generally flat and offer pleasant, shaded walks, perfect for experiencing this UNESCO World Heritage site. The Malpas Tunnel – Malpas Tunnel loop from Colombiers is a great option that explores the canal-side terrain.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.