Orchids and History: Anacamptis pyramidalis in Aude (France)

Over the weekend of June 7th and 8th, taking advantage of the proximity to the mining area of Padern and Montgaillard, we stayed overnight in the picturesque village of Serviès-en-Val (Aude). Beyond the geological exploration, the stay offered an excellent opportunity for tourism in the region: We visited Château Villemagne and strolled through Lagrasse.

We found numerous specimens of the Anacamptis pyramidalis in various stages of flowering. This species, with its characteristic conical inflorescence, adorned the meadows and roadside verges of the area.

The abundance of orchids was remarkable: we also recorded the presence of the striking Ophrys apifera, Serapias vomeracea, and the unmistakable Himantoglossum hircinum. This concentration of species in full bloom demonstrates the calcareous richness and excellent state of conservation of the meadows around Serviès-en-Val, turning the local tourism into a memorable botanical experience.