Montpellier is a French commune, prefecture of the Hérault
department. Capital of the former administrative region
Languedoc-Roussillon, it is the center of a metropolis and a center
of balance for the Occitanie region, where plenary assemblies take
place. Montpellier is located in the South of France, on a major
communication axis joining Spain in the west and Italy in the east.
Close to the Mediterranean Sea (7.1 km), this town has as neighbors
Béziers, 69 km to the south-west, and Nîmes, 52 km to the
north-east.
Montpellier is, by its population, the seventh
municipality in France and the third French city on the
Mediterranean axis (after Marseille and Nice). It is one of the few
cities with more than 100,000 inhabitants whose population has grown
uninterruptedly, every year since 1945. It has almost tripled over
this period to reach 285,121 inhabitants on January 1, 2017, which
makes it the most populous municipality in the Hérault department
and the second most populous in the Occitanie region after Toulouse.
The urban unit of Montpellier has 440,896 inhabitants, the
metropolis has 472,217 inhabitants and the urban area 616,296
inhabitants in 2017, i.e. the 14th in France by population. The
inhabitants are called the Montpelliérains and their nickname is
Clapassièrs or Clapassencs.
Since the 1990s, Montpellier has
experienced one of the strongest economic and demographic growth in
the country. Its urban area has experienced the highest demographic
growth in France since the year 2000. Its living environment, its
cultural life and finally its Mediterranean climate largely explain
this craze for "the Gifted" (title of an advertising campaign in the
1990s, launched by Georges Frêche during his mandate as mayor).
With 70,000 students, it is also the city with the highest ratio
of the number of students per inhabitant in France after Poitiers
(21% of the total population).
In the Middle Ages, the city
was an important city on the Mediterranean rim and formed one of the
main cities of the Crown of Aragon - where King James I of Aragon
was born - then of the kingdom of Mallorca. Above the medieval city,
the old citadel of Montpellier is a stronghold built in the 17th
century by Louis XIII. It is located at the foot of the historic
center of Montpellier. Became the Joffre barracks at the end of the
19th century, then in 1947, the largest high school and college in
the Hérault department.
1. Place de la Comédie: The Vibrant Heart of the City
This vast,
oval-shaped pedestrian square (nicknamed "l'Œuf" or "the Egg") is
Montpellier’s focal point and one of Europe’s largest car-free public
spaces. Located near the train station, it buzzes with cafés, street
performers, skateboarders, and locals day and night. At its center
stands the iconic Fontaine des Trois Grâces (Fountain of the Three
Graces), a late-18th-century sculpture by Étienne d’Antoine depicting
the mythological figures. Dominating one end is the Opéra Comédie, an
Italian-style theater with a grand façade, inaugurated in 1888.
Originally built on the site of former city fortifications, the square
was fully pedestrianized in the 1980s (with an underground tunnel
diverting traffic). Its surrounding Haussmann-style buildings create a
Parisian elegance in a southern French setting. It’s the perfect
starting point for any visit—grab a coffee, people-watch, and feel the
city’s youthful pulse.
2. Promenade du Peyrou and Porte du Peyrou
(Arc de Triomphe)
At the western edge of the old town, the Promenade
du Peyrou (also called Place Royale du Peyrou) is a tree-lined
17th-century esplanade offering panoramic views over the city,
vineyards, Pic Saint-Loup, and even the Mediterranean on clear days.
Designed in classical French style under Louis XIV, it centers on an
equestrian statue of Louis XIV (the "Sun King") surveying his domain.
Marking the entrance is the Porte du Peyrou (or Arc de Triomphe), a
majestic triumphal arch built 1692–1693 by François II d’Orbay (a
student of Jules Hardouin-Mansart). Though it evokes ancient Rome, it
actually honors Louis XIV’s military victories with bas-reliefs,
medallions, and allegorical sculptures. Climb the nearly 90–100 steps to
the panoramic terrace for breathtaking 360° vistas. On Sundays, an
antique market and food trucks add to the lively atmosphere.
Adjacent
is the neoclassical Château d’Eau (water tower), connected to the
impressive Aqueduc Saint-Clément—an 18th-century engineering marvel with
nearly 880 meters of double arches that once supplied water from 14 km
away, echoing Roman aqueducts.
3. Cathédrale Saint-Pierre: A
Fortress-Like Gothic Masterpiece
Montpellier’s most striking
religious landmark is the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, a Southern Gothic gem
with a fortress-like appearance—thick walls, massive buttresses, corner
towers, battlements, and a walkway (earning it the nickname "Fort
Saint-Pierre"). Originally the chapel of the Benedictine monastery of
Saint-Benoît (founded 1364), it became the cathedral in 1536 when the
bishop’s seat moved from Maguelone.
Its interior features a single
vast nave with few windows (for defensive strength), and highlights
include Sébastien Bourdon’s painting The Fall of Simon Magus. Heavily
damaged during the 16th-century Wars of Religion, it retains a powerful,
imposing presence in the old town. The nearby University of
Montpellier’s historic medical faculty adds scholarly context—some of
the world’s oldest still-operating medical teaching sites are right next
door.
4. Musée Fabre: One of France’s Finest Art Collections
Housed in a former Jesuit college with a sleek contemporary extension,
the Musée Fabre is a cultural highlight just off the Esplanade
Charles-de-Gaulle. Founded in 1825 with a donation from painter
François-Xavier Fabre, it spans 9,200 m² and ranks among France’s
richest provincial museums, featuring 800+ paintings, engravings,
drawings, and sculptures from the Renaissance to the 21st century.
Standouts include works by Courbet, Delacroix, and a notable collection
of 19th-century French art (thanks to the Bruyas bequest), plus modern
pieces.
The blend of historic and modern architecture itself is a
work of art, making it ideal for a rainy (or hot) afternoon.
5.
Jardin des Plantes: France’s Oldest Botanical Garden
Established in
1593 by Pierre Richer de Belleval for the medical faculty (under Henri
IV), the Jardin des Plantes is the oldest botanical garden in France and
a peaceful oasis of over 2,500 plant species, including medicinal herbs,
palms, an arboretum, 19th-century greenhouses, and an orangery. Shady
paths, ponds with lotus flowers, and formal layouts make it a refreshing
escape—perfect for botanists, photographers, or anyone seeking
tranquility amid the city’s bustle. It’s a protected historic monument
and inspired later gardens like Paris’s.
6. The Historic Center
(Écusson) and Other Gems
Wander the labyrinth of narrow medieval
streets in the Écusson—pedestrianized lanes like Rue du Bras de Fer, Rue
de la Valfère, and Rue de l’Argenterie reveal Renaissance mansions
(hôtels particuliers—over 80 exist, some with stunning courtyards open
via guided tours), hidden squares, and street art. Highlights include
the 13th-century medieval mikveh (one of Europe’s best-preserved Jewish
ritual baths) and the Tour de la Babote, a rare surviving 12th-century
fortification tower later used as an astronomical observatory (with
views from the top).
Nearby, the Saint-Roch Church (Neo-Gothic, 19th
century) honors Montpellier’s patron saint, while modern contrasts like
the tree-shaped L’Arbre Blanc tower (2019, by Sou Fujimoto) or the
neoclassical Antigone district (by Ricardo Bofill) showcase the city’s
forward-looking side.
By plane
Montpellier International Airport (IATA: MPL) is to the
southeast, just outside (exit 29 of the A9 Mopellier Est). A bus shuttle
line 120 goes into the city to the tram station Place de Europe, from
there you can take the tram.
By train
The Montpellier-Sud de
France TGV train station is located south-east of the city. It is
connected to the national TGV network, with the high-speed line
TGV-Mediterane-Ast Paris-Montpellier (Paris-Montpellier from 3h15). Many
international trains to Barcelona via Perpignan also pass through it.
There are also long-distance trains via Toulouse towards the Atlantic
coast.
Long-distance trains and regional trains also stop at the
old main train station Gare de Montpellier Saint-Roch.
By bus
Long-distance buses from Flixbus stop in a suburb at the long-distance
bus stop at the "Sabines" tram stop.
On the street
The A 9
runs south of the old town, there are three motorway exits Montpellier
Est (29), Montpellier Süd (30) and Montpellier Ouest (31).
The transport company TaM (Transports de l'Agglomération de
Montpellier) operates four tram lines in addition to a bus network.
Public transport in Montpellier is free for under 18s and over 65s.
From 2023 it should generally be free.
Location and Regional Context
Montpellier lies at approximately
43°36′43″N 3°52′38″E (or 43.6119°N, 3.8772°E). The city is positioned
about 10 km (6 mi) inland from the Mediterranean Sea (Gulf of Lion) on
the right bank of the Lez River. It is roughly 170 km southeast of
Toulouse, 50 km southwest of Nîmes, 170 km west of Marseille, and 748 km
south of Paris.
In the broader regional picture, Montpellier occupies
the Bas-Languedoc lowlands within an "open amphitheater" landscape
facing the Mediterranean. To the north rise the Cévennes mountains (part
of the southern Massif Central), while the south features coastal
plains, lagoons (étangs), and beaches. The city forms part of one of the
planet’s 35 global biodiversity hotspots due to its Mediterranean
setting, supporting garrigue scrubland, vineyards, olive groves, and
orchards.
Physical Topography and Relief
The city is built on
two hills—Montpellier and Montpelliéret—creating noticeable elevation
changes along many streets (some quite steep). The highest point is the
Place du Peyrou at 57 m (187 ft) above sea level. Overall city
elevations range from about 7 m to 121 m, with an average around 27–41
m. Locally (within 2 miles), relief is modest (maximum change ~76 m /
249 ft), but it increases to ~300 m within 10 miles and over 1,500 m
(5,161 ft) within 50 miles toward the Cévennes.
The terrain is part
of a gently undulating coastal plain with karstic influences from
limestone geology. No major local mountains exist, but the name
“Montpellier” derives from medieval Latin mons pisleri (“Woad
Mountain”), referring to an ancient pile of stones or hill feature. The
broader Hérault department averages 227 m elevation, with extremes from
sea level to 1,181 m in the Espinouse peaks.
Hydrology
Montpellier lies directly on the Lez River, a short coastal river (~30
km long) originating from karst springs in the Cévennes foothills and
flowing south through the city before emptying into the Mediterranean
near Palavas-les-Flots via lagoons. The Lez and nearby rivers (Hérault,
Orb, Vidourle) are prone to sudden, intense flooding from cévenol
events—heavy autumn rains funneled by the mountains. These flash floods
pose ongoing risks, managed through modern infrastructure like retention
basins in newer districts.
Coastal lagoons (e.g., the large Étang de
Thau to the southwest) characterize the shoreline, creating a mosaic of
wetlands, salt marshes, and beaches easily accessible from the city.
Climate
Montpellier has a classic hot-summer Mediterranean
climate (Köppen Csa): mild, damp winters and hot, dry summers, moderated
by sea breezes. It earns nicknames like the “Sunshine City” thanks to
abundant sunlight (~2,700+ hours annually).
Temperatures: January
daily mean ~7.6°C (45.7°F), with lows around 3.3°C; July daily mean
~24.4°C (75.9°F), with highs often exceeding 29°C. Extremes range from
−17.8°C (rare cold snaps) to 43.5°C (recent heat records).
Precipitation: Annual total ~630–660 mm, concentrated in fall and winter
(October is wettest at ~76–95 mm). Summers are dry (July ~17 mm), though
thunderstorms can occur. Snow is rare (average <1 day/year).
Winds
and other features: Occasional strong northerly winds (similar to the
Mistral) bring clear, dry conditions. Humidity averages 63–77%, higher
in winter.
Urban Geography and Modern Layout
The historic core
(Écusson) occupies the original hilltop site with narrow, winding
medieval streets and significant altitude variations. Modern
growth—Montpellier is one of France’s fastest-expanding cities—has
pushed outward into eco-districts and along the Lez River (e.g., Port
Marianne with its artificial lake and waterfront). Green spaces like the
80-hectare Parc zoologique de Lunaret add to the urban fabric. The
city’s pedestrian-friendly center contrasts with newer peripheral zones
designed for sustainability amid flood and heat risks.
Summary of
Key Geographical Influences
Montpellier’s geography blends coastal
Mediterranean advantages (mild climate, tourism, biodiversity) with
inland hilly and riverine dynamics (elevation contrasts, flash-flood
potential). Its position at the edge of the Languedoc plain makes it a
gateway between sea, mountains, and agricultural heartlands. This
setting has historically supported trade, viticulture, and now
tech/education-driven growth, while presenting challenges like seasonal
flooding and increasing climate variability.
Early Context and Founding (Pre-985 to 12th Century)
Before
Montpellier's founding, the nearby coastal settlement of Maguelone (or
Maguelonne) served as the area's main episcopal and political center
from late antiquity. In 737, Charles Martel destroyed Maguelone during
campaigns against Muslim forces, and later pirate raids encouraged
inland movement for safety.
Montpellier itself first appears in
records in 985, when local feudal lord Guilhem (William) I was granted
lands by the Count of Melgueil. The Guilhem dynasty united two small
hamlets—Montpellier and Montpelliéret—built a castle, and enclosed the
settlement with walls. Early growth came from its position as a trading
post linking the Mediterranean world, importing spices and other goods.
By the 10th–11th centuries, it consisted of two distinct portions under
the Guilhems, who ruled for over two centuries.
Golden Age:
Trade, Tolerance, and the University (12th–13th Centuries)
The 12th
century marked Montpellier's explosive rise. It became a major
Mediterranean trading hub, especially for spices, with strong links to
the Islamic world, Italy, and beyond. The city earned a reputation for
exceptional tolerance toward Jews, Muslims, and later Cathars (and
Protestants). A thriving Jewish community flourished, with a dedicated
quarter around rue de la Barralerie, a mikveh (ritual bath rediscovered
in the 1980s), and intellectual contributions—Benjamin of Tudela visited
in 1165 noting Talmudic schools.
Education defined the era. A law
school operated from around 1160. In 1180, Lord Guilhem VIII issued a
decree allowing anyone—regardless of origin or faith—to teach medicine,
fostering an open, multicultural medical tradition influenced by Arab,
Jewish, and Christian scholarship. The faculties of law and medicine
were formally established in 1220 by Cardinal Conrad of Urach (papal
legate), making the University of Montpellier one of the world's oldest
continuously operating universities and home to the oldest active
medical school in the Western world. It attracted luminaries like
Petrarch (who studied law), and later Nostradamus and François Rabelais
(both medical students).
Politically, Montpellier passed to the Crown
of Aragon in 1204 when Peter II of Aragon married Marie of Montpellier
(dowry). A charter (Grande Charte) confirmed freedoms and the right to
elect 12 consuls annually. Under Aragonese rule, the city peaked
economically as France's primary spice-trade center and one of its two
or three largest cities, with a pre-Black Death population of around
40,000. James I of Aragon ("the Conqueror") was born here in 1208 (some
sources say 1213). Two surviving city-wall towers (Tour des Pins and
Tour de la Babotte) date to ~1200.
Transition to French Rule and
Late Medieval Challenges (14th–15th Centuries)
Montpellier remained
Aragonese until 1349, when James III of Majorca sold it to French King
Philip VI to fund wars against Aragon. It became part of the province of
Languedoc, remaining so until the French Revolution. The Black Death
(1348) devastated the population (halving it in many accounts), as it
did across Europe; broader anti-Jewish violence occurred in France,
though Montpellier's Jewish community had earlier enjoyed relative
tolerance (full expulsion from France came in 1394).
In 1536, the
bishopric moved from Maguelone to Montpellier; the former monastery
chapel became the Cathedral of Saint Peter (Gothic, heavily restored).
The 15th century saw economic revival under figures like merchant
Jacques Cœur, who boosted trade until Marseille surpassed it around
1481.
Wars of Religion, Absolutism, and Urban Embellishment
(16th–18th Centuries)
The Reformation turned Montpellier into a
Protestant (Huguenot) stronghold. It was one of 66 villes de sûreté
under the 1598 Edict of Nantes, with Protestant control over
institutions. Tensions with Catholic Paris culminated in the 1622 Siege
of Montpellier by Louis XIII; after two months, the city surrendered.
Terms included dismantling fortifications, building the royal Citadel
(1624), and transferring power to Catholics. The Edict of Alès (1629)
ended Protestant political autonomy.
Louis XIV later designated
Montpellier the capital of Bas Languedoc, spurring grand
17th–18th-century developments: the terraced Promenade du Peyrou (with
views to the sea), the Esplanade, elegant mansions, the Arc de Triomphe
(honoring the king), and neoclassical architecture. The Jardin des
Plantes (botanical garden), founded by Henry IV in 1593, is France's
oldest. A Chamber of Commerce (1704) and Royal Society of Sciences
(1706) reflected growing intellectual life.
Revolution, 19th
Century, and Economic Shifts
The French Revolution made Montpellier
the capital of the new Hérault department. The university was suppressed
but partially revived (faculties of science/letters in 1810, law 1880,
full reorganization by 1896).
The 19th century brought prosperity
from Languedoc wine production, fueled by sunny Mediterranean climate
and fertile plains—making citizens wealthy. Population grew from ~33,000
(1793) to ~74,000 (1896). However, the phylloxera epidemic (late
1880s–1890s) devastated vineyards, causing economic crisis. Industrial
and transport developments (e.g., Saint-Roch station 1845) and cultural
institutions (Musée Fabre 1825, Opéra Comédie 1888) continued.
20th Century: Wars, Repatriation, and Modernization
Montpellier saw
modest 20th-century growth amid wars. Post-WWII, it welcomed French
repatriates (pieds-noirs) from Algeria after 1962 independence, boosting
population. Long-serving mayor Georges Frêche (1977–2010) drove
ambitious urban renewal, including the neo-classical Antigone district
(designed by Ricardo Bofill on former military land) and other modern
quarters like Port Marianne and Odysseum. The tramway launched in 2000.
Population surged: ~118,000 (1962) to ~225,000 (1999).
Contemporary Era (21st Century)
Since the 1990s, Montpellier has been
one of France's fastest-growing cities demographically and economically,
with high-tech, biotech, pharma, and services sectors. It boasts one of
Europe's highest student ratios (~70,000 students, ~1/4 of residents), a
massive pedestrian historic center (Écusson), and a mild Mediterranean
climate. New districts, cultural festivals (e.g., Montpellier Danse),
and infrastructure have earned nicknames like "the Gifted" city. It is
now part of the Occitanie region (since 2016).
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–June) and early fall
(September–October) are ideal. The landscape blooms in spring, and early
fall brings grape harvests in surrounding vineyards. Summers
(July–August) are hot and lively with festivals like Montpellier Danse,
but they can feel crowded and very warm. Winters are mild and quieter,
perfect for cultural exploration without the heat. Avoid peak August if
you dislike high tourist volumes. Check for events like the Printemps
des Comédiens theater festival in June or Estivales markets in summer.
How Long to Stay and Getting There
Plan for 3–4 days minimum to
explore the city properly, including leisurely lunches, museums, and the
old town. Add extra time for beaches or day trips.
By air:
Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport (MPL) is small and efficient, about
8–10 km from the center. A shuttle bus (around €2–8) connects to the
city or Sud de France station; taxis take 15–20 minutes (€20–30). Some
international flights exist, but many routes go via Paris or other hubs.
By train: High-speed TGV from Paris (about 3.5 hours), Lyon, Marseille,
or even Barcelona (around 3 hours by car or train). The main station,
Montpellier Saint-Roch, sits right south of the historic center—easy
walking distance to many hotels.
By car: Feasible but less ideal in
the car-free old town (Écusson). Parking is available on the outskirts;
use trams or bikes inside the center.
Getting Around
Montpellier is compact and highly walkable, especially the
pedestrianized historic center. The four-line tram system is modern,
efficient, and affordable (single tickets ~€1.50; day passes available).
Trams feature eye-catching designs by artists.
Bikes: Vélomagg
self-service bikes are cheap and practical—grab one for ~€0.50/hour with
a credit card code valid for days. Great for reaching beaches.
Walking: The center is mostly flat or gently inclined; wear comfortable
shoes for cobblestones.
Avoid driving in the old town—it's largely
car-free, making it peaceful but tricky for navigation.
Consider
the Montpellier City Card (24/48/72 hours) for free public transport
plus discounts or free entry to attractions like Musée Fabre.
Where to Stay
Center/Écusson (old town): Ideal for immersion—charming
boutique hotels or apartments near Place de la Comédie. Examples include
spots like Hôtel d’Aragon or smaller guesthouses.
Antigone district:
Modern, architectural area with good transport links.
Near Peyrou or
Arceaux: Quieter, village-like feel with easy access to markets and
promenades. A highly recommended guesthouse option is Les 4 Etoiles for
its warm welcome and terrace.
Budget: Hostels or EKLO-style options
(~€25–40/night). Mid-range: €70–120. Luxury: Modern hotels like JOST or
Privilege near the center.
Book early for summer; many places offer
roof terraces perfect for evening drinks.
Top Things to Do
Place de la Comédie: The lively heart of the city—grab a drink at a
terrace café, watch street performers, and people-watch. It's
pedestrianized and buzzing day and night.
Écusson (Historic Old
Town): Wander car-free medieval lanes, hidden squares, and elegant
hôtels particuliers (mansions). Get intentionally lost among boutiques,
street art, and surprises around every corner. Don't miss Rue du Bras de
Fer or secret courtyards.
Musée Fabre: One of France's finest
provincial art museums, with works from Renaissance to contemporary
(Courbet, Delacroix, etc.). Allow 1–2 hours; it's a highlight for art
lovers.
Promenade du Peyrou & Arc de Triomphe (Porte du Peyrou): A
grand 18th-century esplanade with views over the city and countryside,
plus the city's triumphal arch and château d'eau (water tower). Stroll
the adjacent aqueduct for a peaceful escape.
Jardin des Plantes: One
of Europe's oldest botanical gardens (founded for the medical school),
with exotic plants, shaded paths, and a serene atmosphere—perfect for a
break.
Modern Montpellier: Explore Antigone's neoclassical
architecture, the Lez riverfront, and contemporary sites like MO.CO.
(contemporary art center) or Carré Sainte-Anne (a deconsecrated church
turned art space).
Markets: Marché des Arceaux (under the
aqueduct—great for cheese, olives, lavender) or Marché du Lez (food
trucks, flea market vibe with music).
Other gems: Planet Ocean
aquarium for families, street art hunts, or the oldest active medical
school in the Western world (guided tours sometimes available).
Food and Drink Scene
Montpellier's cuisine mixes Mediterranean
seafood and Languedoc terroir—fresh, flavorful, and influenced by land
and sea.
Must-tries: Tièlle sétoise (spicy octopus pie), brasucade
(grilled mussels over vine wood), picholine olives, grisettes
(honey-licorice candies). Seafood stews, fresh oysters from nearby
farms, and local wines (Pic Saint-Loup reds, crisp whites/rosés).
Dining tips: Enjoy long lunches in shaded squares. Try brasseries on
Place de la Comédie or smaller spots in the old town. Markets are
perfect for picnics (baguette, cheese, fruit). Craft beer scene is
growing; natural wines abound.
Local vibe: Terrace dining is
year-round thanks to the climate. Look for seasonal produce and
Languedoc specialties.
Budget ~€15–30 for a good meal; street food or
market options are cheaper.
Day Trips and Beaches
Beaches:
Tram + short walk or bike to Palavas-les-Flots or other spots along the
coast (20–30 minutes). La Grande-Motte has modern architecture and sandy
shores.
Sète ("Venice of Languedoc"): Canals, seafood, oyster
farms—easy 20–30 minute train ride. Great for a half-day.
Wine
country: Pic Saint-Loup vineyards for tastings and tours.
Other
options: Nîmes (Roman ruins, ~30–45 min train), medieval villages like
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, or the Camargue for nature.
Practical
Tips
Budget: €60–100+ per day (accommodation, meals,
transport/entries). Cards are widely accepted; cash for small markets.
Language: French is primary, but English is common in tourist areas and
among younger people (university influence). Polite basics ("bonjour,"
"merci") go far.
Safety: Generally safe, especially the center. Like
any city, watch for petty theft in crowded spots (stations, squares).
The refurbished Saint-Roch area is now visitor-friendly. Standard
precautions apply—secure valuables, stay aware at night.
Other:
Download the TAM app for trams/buses. Sunscreen and a hat are essential
in summer. Pharmacies are well-stocked; EU health card for emergencies.
Sustainability: Use public transport/bikes; support local markets. The
city promotes green tourism.
Hidden Gems and Local Experiences
Secret squares and medieval backstreets in the Écusson (beyond the main
paths).
Marché du Lez for a hip, local food/flea market vibe.
Villa des Cent Regards or unusual sites like the anatomy museum (if
open).
Bookshops like Gibert Joseph or Le Bookshop for browsing.
Evening strolls in quieter neighborhoods like Les Arceaux, or
birdwatching/nature spots on the outskirts.