Stereoscopic interpretation of colour infrared (CIR) aerial photographs and analysis of SPOT multispectral (XS) data offer alternative methods for the documentation of land cover change of the Causse du Larzac, of a heathland region in the southern part of the Massif Central, France. Discussion of multitem-poral classification results leads to an advanced understanding of the value of visual and/or computer-related image interpretation of seminatural environments. Analysis of in situ measurements of spectral reflectance properties of classified land cover types completes the investigation of remotely sensed heathland monitoring.