Salagou

Salagou is a volcanic crater located in the Hérault department of southern France, near the town of Saint-Geniès-des-Mourgues. The site is renowned for its striking geological features and is a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and nature enthusiasts.

Formed approximately 10 million years ago during the Miocene epoch, the Salagou crater is a remnant of volcanic activity that once characterized the region. The crater measures about 1.5 kilometers in diameter and reaches a depth of up to 150 meters. Over time, erosion and geological processes have shaped the landscape into a series of rugged cliffs, deep ravines, and unique rock formations. The area is characterized by red sandstone, which gives the site its distinctive reddish hue, particularly visible at sunrise and sunset.

The Salagou region is also home to a man-made reservoir, the Lac de Salagou, created in the 1970s by damming the Orb River. The reservoir is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming, offering a contrast to the rugged volcanic terrain. Surrounding the crater are vineyards, reflecting the agricultural productivity of the region, which is part of the Languedoc wine country.

The site is protected as part of the *Réserve Naturelle Nationale de la Vallée de l’Orb*, a natural reserve established to preserve its biodiversity. Visitors can explore the area through marked hiking trails, including the *Sentier des Crêtes*, which offers panoramic views of the crater and surrounding landscape. The region’s unique geology and natural beauty make it a significant landmark in southern France, attracting both tourists and scientists interested in its geological history.