Les Bergeries de Ponderach, route de Narbonne,  34220 Saint-Pons de Thomières, Hérault, France
Réservations tél: (33) 04 67 97 02 57, (We speak fluently english!)
Fax: (33) 04 67 97 29 75.   Courriel / e-mail : bergeriesponderach@wanadoo.fr

The wines of pays d'Oc - The wine road

The town was born from the junction of two cities. The start point was located in the numerous caves of the hills surrounding the river Jaur. There, neolithic population took place and grouped progressively close to the river source. Till the 10th century they made houses and founded the first city named Thomières. Then, Raymond Pons, Count of Toulouse decided to build an abbey on the other side of the river. Other inhabitants came there and grouped their homes near the fortified abbey. They founded the second city named St Pons. The union of both cities made St Pons de Thomières

The city is built on a triangular calcar rock protected by the deep canyons of the two rivers Brian and Cesse. This very safe position has been used by the cathars at the begining of the 13th century to use the place as a military center. Unfortunately, the city, watered by only one public well, capitulate whith thirst when circled by Simon de Montfort army in 1210. It payed a heavy blood tribute of 140 cathars burnt on the ramparts.
To feel the load of this past drama, the visitor should not miss: 

Deeply engraved in the Caroux mountain, the Héric canyon amazes the visitor by its wilderness,  its continuously changing colors and the gigantic water sculptures which can be found all along the valley. It is a paradise for canyoners, climbers, riders or air gliders, but excursionists can also enjoy the local beauties more comfortably installed in a small road train specifically designed.

Les Bergeries de Ponderach font partie des Châteaux et Hôtels de France

Best of Biz

Other sites of interest

Last update : 01/01/08. WEbdESIGN : idaeus.com     All rights reserved 2001-2008, Les Bergeries de Ponderach.