The Bassin de Thau, on the Mediterranean coast, is the largest pond in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. The oyster beds that stretch as far as the eye can see, like neat little enclosures, sometimes earn it the nickname of “garden of the sea”. A charming place to discover without moderation...
A lively place to discover
Separated from the sea by a barrier beach, the vast Thau basin (7,500 hectares) stretches along the Languedoc coast, 19 km long and 5 km wide. It has very few beaches, but a number of other tourist attractions:
The area has been a breeding ground for shellfish and oysters since Antiquity. The latter are marketed under the name of Bouzigues oysters, after the first village to introduce oyster farming on the pond. You can visit the oyster farms by boat and enjoy delicious tastings at the producers'. Sailing, sea kayaking, windsurfing, kite-surfing and even diving are all practised on the pond, while respecting its exceptional marine environment. The vineyards that border the pond also contribute to its richness. In particular, you can taste Picpoul de Pinet, the white wine that goes so well with seafood.
The birthplace of Georges Brassens, Sète's many canals, picturesque fishing port and 12 km of protected beaches will charm you. For a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, 2 viewpoints are recommended: Mont Saint Clair, which reveals the structure of the city at an altitude of 183 meters, and Domaine des Pierres Blanches, from which, weather permitting, you can see the Pyrenees and Mont Canigou. Other Sète highlights include the Espace George Brassens and the Fêtes de la Saint-Louis, a typical nautical jousting festival held at the end of August.
- Balaruc-les-Bains, 1st spa resort in France
Balaruc-les-Bains specializes in rheumatology and phlebology, and welcomes over 46,000 medicalized spa visitors every year. A new facility, “les Thermes de Balaruc-les-Bains”, opened its doors on March 2, 2015. Covering an area of 16,000 m², it features 5 collective treatment pools and 7 independent hydrotherapy treatment areas. 4 are dedicated to the application of thermal mud, the resort's renowned treatment, using a new application bed specially developed and patented for the Thermes.
- Bouzigues and its oyster and mussel farms
This charming fishing village is a mecca for shellfish farming. A visit to the Musée de l'étang de Thau will enable you to learn more about the trades of the “peasants of the sea” and the activities of the Thau Basin. An original display of objects recreates the atmosphere of fishing: aquariums, video, models...
- Ecological Mèze
Mèze is the oldest village in the Thau Basin. A research center dedicated to environmental protection and aquaculture, the Pays de Thau ecosite explains to visitors how “nature cleans the water” with microscopic plants and animals.
- Marseillan and its wine-growing heritage
The listed port of Marseillan proudly bears witness to its winegrowing past. Old mansions and majestic wineries frame the waves. A stone's throw away, the Pointe des Onglous and its lighthouse mark the mouth of the Canal du Midi into the Etang de Thau. A visit to the Noilly Prat cellars is also an opportunity to discover the techniques involved in making Vermouth, a white wine-based aperitif.
Informations pratiques
Le bassin de Thau : www.tourisme-bassindethau.com
Le tourisme dans l’Hérault : www.herault-tourisme.com
