Sète, a charming and vibrant port town in the South of France, is a delightful blend of picturesque canals, rich cultural heritage and culinary delights. Known as the ‘Venice of Languedoc,’ Sète’s unique character makes it a must-visit destination on the French Mediterranean coast.
One of Sète's most distinctive features is its network of canals running through the town, earning it the nickname ‘Little Venice’. A great way to explore these waterways is by taking a boat tour, which allows you to appreciate the town’s architecture and bustling port life from a different perspective. Sète is also famous for its traditional water jousting tournaments, a unique and exciting spectacle where competitors, standing on boats, try to knock each other into the water. This tradition dates back to 1666 and is a major part of the town’s annual Saint-Louis Festival. Watching a water jousting match is not only entertaining but also a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
For the best views over Sète and the surrounding coastline, make your way to the top of Mont Saint-Clair. This hill, located in the heart of the town, offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, the Thau Lagoon and the Pyrenees on clear days. The ascent can be made on foot or by car, and there are several viewpoints along the way where you can stop and enjoy the scenery. At the summit, don’t miss the Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette chapel and the picturesque cemetery, both of which add to the charm of this scenic spot.
A short trip from Sète is the Thau Lagoon, one of the largest and deepest lagoons in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. The lagoon is famous for its oyster and mussel farming and visiting one of the many oyster farms is a delightful experience. You can learn about the oyster farming process, and more importantly, taste the fresh oysters paired with a glass of local white wine. The lagoon is also a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, with a diverse array of bird species inhabiting its shores.
Which cruise lines sail to Sète?
