On the road to Mèze the scenery is a breathtaking mix of grapevines of the region’s traditional cepages: piquepoul, terret bourret, cinsault, grenache, and syrah. The city was the Languedoc’s most active port in 1709, and prospered in trade through the 18th and 19th century. It was known for making barrels, wine tanks and guns.
In the 20th century the port activity migrated towards Sète and Mèze turned back to its traditions of winemaking, oyster farming and fishing. Parts of its history are visible today and interesting to see. The 12th century Penitents Chapel that was built on a Greek temple. The 14th and 15th century Saint-Hilaire Church is a classic example the region’s Gothic architecture. The Girard Castel that was built in the 17th century had beautiful French gardens.