Mont Aigoual observatory

At 1,567 m (some sources give 1,565 m), Mont Aigoual is one of the highest peaks of the southern Cévennes. Construction of the observatory began in 1887 and it was inaugurated in 1894; the château-like building serves as a scientific centre, historic monument, and exhibition and education venue. Météo-France runs a station there and offers a short presentation on the researchers' work and on sky and clouds; guided visits to the measuring instruments are also possible. According to a guidebook, in summer an exhibition shows photographs of the station through the seasons, a film about its origins and measuring equipment.

From the orientation table at the summit you have a 360-degree panorama in clear weather, and in very good visibility as far as the Mediterranean, the Pyrenees and the Alps. Mediterranean and Atlantic winds meet here; fog occurs on about 240 days a year on average, and in 1968 the station recorded a gust of 360 km/h, the strongest in France. The weather can turn quickly, especially in winter. You can drive up to the observatory.