The sea is only 5 km away, and Béziers is just next door. Between the Mediterranean and the Prefecture, Villeneuve-lès-Béziers has an identity of its own. Come and enjoy the happy way of life of its friendly inhabitants. Its rich and momentous history, particularly during the French Wars of Religion, can be evidenced by the many monuments that dot the place – as you stroll around, you’re sure to spot them.

Founded in 778, Villeneuve came to be named “La Crémade” (same Latin root as cremation) in 1631 due to being burnt by the troops of Simon de Montfort during France’s Wars of Religion that saw Catholics and Protestants fighting each other during the 16th and 17th centuries. If the subsequent ravaging and destruction were not the best way to endure, this forced rebuilding nonetheless contributed to the Villeneuve we see today, all close to the venerable Béziers. 

The clock tower of the Saint-Etienne church has loomed over the town’s flat horizon since 1160, with no trace of the blights of the past. Slightly more spared than the rest of Villeneuve from the aforementioned civil wars, its 10th century Romanesque style has become a real treasure. The castle and murals have not been so lucky, having become subject to decay. The former fell into ruins in 1925, while the latter, consisting of two black stone walls until the 14th century, only exists in the form of a couple of remnants. As in other places, it’s likely that bits of these can still be found today in the structure of many houses in Villeneuve. Here and there, you’ll find other remnants of history. Yet the main attraction of your stay will no doubt be the Canal du Midi, with the foliage above reflecting upon its shimmering surface.