Autumn

For me, holidays are about discovery, a lot of walking but also a little relaxation. After an evening dancing at the Théâtre de la Mer, I suggest that my group of friends go and relax a little and that's good, not far from our accommodation we were told about Balaruc-les-Bains, famous for its Baths, perfect for the day we had planned. We will have breakfast by the pond of Thau, what a treat, the hot sun, good pastries and here we go for a day of relaxation. We arrive at O'balia, warm welcome, we opt for the Magic of Water and a small body massage. Large pools with thermal water at 34°C, a Hammam, a sauna, everything is perfect!  After 2 hours in the spa we decide to go to eat, a beach straw mat? We are tempted to eat with our feet in the sand, our activity being in ...

A trip to the edge of the desert, or more precisely to the Gardiole massif and the edge of the Thau lagoon... This is the experience you can enjoy during your holidays in the Archipelago with the Dromasud farm in Frontignan!  On the back of a dromedary  Accompanied by your child or alone on your saddle, your eyes lost on the sea, the Aresquiers wood, the salt marshes, the ponds and the famous Muscat vineyards, you are about to experience an unusual moment on the back of a camel in the company of Cécile.  During 1 hour (ride) or 2h30 (course), you will walk through the Gardiole massif and will be rocked by Cécile's passion for dromedaries as well as her love for the region that she has been walking since 2010, when she created the Dromasud association with Coralie....

With 25 kilometres of fine sandy beaches, you are bound to find the ideal beach for you in the Thau Archipelago! ACCESSIBLE  THE BEACH FOR ALL All the seaside towns in the Thau Archipelago have beaches with walkways and Tiralos® (wheelchairs available at the lifeguard posts) adapted for bathing for people with motor disabilities, but only the beach at Balaruc-les-Bains has the Audioplage® system, which allows people with visual impairments to swim freely, independently and in optimum safety conditions. Balaruc-les-Bains is also one of the few French towns to have been awarded the national Destination for All label, recognising the spa's commitment to overall accessibility for people with disabilities. FAMILY NEVER WITHOUT MY CLANS  There is no shortage of family be...

If you would like to immerse yourself in the traditions and culture of the Thau Archipelago, we look forward to seeing you in 2024 to experience or relive the highlights of our Destination, whatever your desires: gastronomy, history, jousting... The Oursinade (mid-March) Every year in Sète, the Oursinade, a large open-air guinguette, attracts visitors who come to taste the best that the Thau Basin has to offer: sea urchins, but also oysters, mussels, tielles and other gastronomic and wine-making delights of the region. Time in the lagoon (mid-May to mid-June) This is a new event during which artists, scientists, shellfish farmers, fishermen, wine growers and inhabitants share their views on the Thau lagoon. Meetings, debates, shows and workshops will give pride of place to ...

Would you like to travel back in time? This is the new experience that we suggest you live during your stay in the Thau Archipelago and more precisely in Mèze, at the Dinosaur Museum-Park. Located in the heart of an exceptional palaeontological site, this largest museum-park in Europe dedicated to dinosaurs and prehistory will delight young and old alike with its skeletons, fossils and life-size dinosaurs... So don't wait any longer to take this leap into the history of Man and dinosaurs!   A little history  It all began in March 1996 when a large number of dinosaur eggs were discovered on the site, proving that the region was occupied for nearly 10 million years by different species of dinosaurs.   In 1997, Alain Cabot decided to invest in the site and turn it in...

Today, I'm learning to make the famous Sète tielle to bring back the flavours of my vacation with me. I have often heard about the tielle, this octopus pie and tomato sauce. I like to travel, but above all, I like to taste the culinary specialties! There's no better way to discover a culture, is there? I go to the Halles de Sète to drink my coffee before starting the cooking workshop. The chef, very friendly, explains the origin of the tielle, its ingredients and how we will cook the octopus. We start by making the dough, which was often the baker's dough at the time. A little flour, olive oil, yeast and salt, we knead well and here is our dough ready, we will let it rest until we prepare the rest. The thawed octopuses, ready to boil, in a saucepan. Now we remove ...

As a parent, the choice of your holiday destination is crucial! Are you a fan of outdoor leisure activities, or do you prefer cultural outings? In the Thau Archipelago, believe me, there is everything you need! Enjoy the great outdoors If, like my children and me, you like walking in the great outdoors and outdoor leisure activities, there are many choices available to you. To name just a few: a donkey ride in Gigean (with good walking shoes), a trip into prehistory at the Museum-Dinosaur Park in Mèze, or a visit to the zoo farm in Bouzigues. During the summer period, do not hesitate to take part in the walks and activities organised by the CPIE du bassin de Thau, the whole family will enjoye them! On the program: discovery of the most typical places of the area, meeting with ...

No matter which destination you have chosen for your holiday in the Thau archipelago, we invite you to take advantage of these few days to get away from it all and discover the 14 communes that make up our destination.  You can also find more information in our magazine.   Balaruc-le-Vieux Set on a hillock, the village dominates the creek of the corner with a view on the lagoon. A medieval village wrapped in its ramparts, which magnifies the past. We love to get lost in its narrow streets. Discover Balaruc-le-Vieux   Balaruc-les-Bains The first spa in France, Louis Bonaparte already came here for a cure in the 19th century! People come here to enjoy the benefits of its thermal waters, but also to stroll through the flowery alleys of the Mediterranean Ant...

Between the sky and the water, protected treasures By Julia Laffaille A veritable patchwork of landscapes, the Thau Archipelago, nestled between the Mediterranean and the wide open spaces of the garrigue, is a small preserved paradise. This territory has always been a promise of travel and of a still wild nature just a stone's throw from the beautiful Occitan villages. So, I went back to explore these sunny landscapes to discover all these protected natural treasures. By the sea, a stone's throw from the blue waves Here, the inhabitants live alongside this idyllic setting on a daily basis and water is certainly a character in its own right. Lagoons, ponds or even salt pans are all environments that have shaped the landscapes in which Man has been able to develop ...

Would you like to discover one of the most beautiful Cistercian abbeys in France in an original way and at the same time live a unique experience? Head to the charming village of Villeveyrac to visit Valmagne Abbey.   A little history Founded in 1139, this historic monument is one of the best preserved examples of Cistercian art, with its 29-metre-high central nave, its 9 chapels, its Romanesque cloister, its fountain and its medieval garden... But its particularity lies in its cellar and in its 35 hectares which are among the oldest vineyards of Languedoc. We won't tell you any more and we'll let you discover the secrets of this pure Cistercian jewel through its treasure hunt.   The lost treasure of the colours of Valmagne A bag full of surprising objects and...

Fed up with traffic jams and dreariness, this weekend, we escape for a romantic getaway for two to Sète, the little Venice of the south! As soon as our luggage is dropped off at the hotel, we head for one of the typical districts of Sète, the short point. In this fishermen's district, almost cut off from the world and bordered by the lagoon, it is a total change of scenery. Forgotten the pale lights of the office, the warm rays of the sun and the sea breeze caressing our faces, a delight...Then, direction Mont Saint-Clair, to enjoy the panoramic view of Sète, its port and its lagoon. The opportunity to make a selfie and share this moment with all our friends!After a lunch on a terrace in the city to taste local specialities, a short trip to the city's museums. We prefer two ...

Visit our Archipelago and its cultural sites in a different way, emblematic of our history. Do you like history and stroll around Sète? Let's go to the Sea Museum! History of the construction of the port, ship models, Languedoc jousting... This museum will reveal all the secrets of the city of Sète, its traditions and its exceptional maritime heritage. Extend your visit to Sète by visiting the Espace Georges Brassens and discover the internationally renowned Sète artist, his life and work thanks to image and sound. Whether you are a music lover or just curious, this place will not leave you in the dark! Why not then head for Frontignan to see its church (Saint Paul), built at the beginning of the 12th century? This surprising construction is made up of limestone from...

This morning, direction Frontignan-Plage for a walk along the ponds to contemplate the ballet of the birds. I learned at the tourist office that many species gravitate there all year round (more than 130) and that the spectacle is breathtaking, especially in spring, during the migratory period. The ideal is to go there early in the morning at sunrise, the colours on the pond and the shadows of the pink flamingos plunge you into a special atmosphere. But first of all, what is birdwatching? It is a new tourist activity that comes to us from our English neighbours who are very fond of nature, fauna and flora. In France, we call it "birdwatching". It is a photographic hike which will also delight those who love beautiful pictures. I've been doing it for a few years now, and I'm ...

Our hike starts near the Saint Félix de Montceau abbey, in Gigean, in the Gardiole massif. The sun is shining, the whole family is motivated, I feel we are going to have a good time! A historical treasure We can't resist discovering the abbey before starting our walk. The visit begins with the gardens, where the scent of the Mediterranean plants that surround us floats. Surrounded by the remains of the huge gothic building, we are left wondering what life was like for the people who once lived here.Balcony with a view   The stony hiking trail leads us to discover the Gardiole massif and its very special vegetation. Once we reach the highest point of the circuit, the view is sumptuous: all around us, greenery, the abbey in the background, and in the distance, the Thau lagoo...

Do you dream of calm and nature? Escape? So cheer up, flee the city, towards the Thau Archipelago!  In this sumptuous setting, time stretches indefinitely, the time is at hand.... Spending a day in Thau means relaxing in a green and blue garden, between the sea, lagoons and the scrubland. On foot, by bike or even in a bathing suit, it is time for idleness, simple pleasures, romantic picnics at sunset... In a word as in a hundred, it is high time to let yourself live and take the time...

The first thermal spa in the Mediterranean, O'balia offers a multitude of treatments that take advantage of the benefits of thermal water. Unleash your senses and treat yourself to a well-deserved break in this place entirely dedicated to relaxation and well-being.   The pool area  In a setting of greenery and natural Mediterranean woods, the pool area of the O'balia wellness centre offers water in all its forms. Sensory pools, hydromassage benches, swan necks and bubbling sofas will offer you an unforgettable moment of relaxation. Unless you opt for the onsen, a Japanese-inspired bubbling bath, nestled in a green setting and bathed by a waterfall. An intimate place conducive to contemplation... Finally, bask in the hammam, where you can relax while enjoying the gentle h...

At the gates of Montpellier, in the middle of the Aleppo pines, lulled by the song of the cicadas, here you are galloping with your hair blowing in the wind on a real Camargue horse... Has this introduction given you ideas for your next holiday in the Thau Archipelago? Head for the riding centre along the Aresquiers road in Vic-la-Gardiole to enjoy this unique experience in the Aresquiers woods. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, come and explore the ponds of Vic-la-Gardiole, Ingril and even the old salt marshes of Frontignan on horseback or on a pony for the little ones. But first, a bit of history about the place you are about to discover!   The Aresquiers wood Lost between the lagoons of Vic-la-Gardiole and Ingril, on the edge of the sea and the salt ...

Winter is just around the corner and we have only one wish: to escape the cold! So we dream of being in the sun, enjoying the gentle way of life typical of the south of France. What if you could make this dream come true? Head for the Thau Archipelago to spend a few days in cocooning mode in a cosy apartment hotel, for a gastronomic dinner followed by a concert, in an unusual museum or even in pools of thermal water at 34°C and under the expert hands of masseuses. We'll tell you a little more about the weekend we've planned for you right now!  The Marcel suites It is in the heart of the city of Sète, along the Léopold Suquet quay, that you will find the first stage of your stay in the Archipel de Thau: your accommodation! Located above the mythical restaurant The Rio, ...

If you are looking for an idea to occupy your winter or summer evenings or to entertain your children, this article is for you! Indeed, the Thau Archipelago is full of theatres and concert halls where young and old alike can be entertained. Theatre, concerts, dance, one-man shows, musical tales, puppets... There's something for everyone and in every season. So, curtain up!  The Molière Theatre, Scène Nationale (Sète) Located along the Avenue Victor Hugo, the Molière Theatre is a well-known venue for the people of Sète. Here you can enjoy theatre, but not only! With nearly forty shows on offer throughout the year, you will be spoilt for choice: music, dance, opera... There are even shows for children. For the record, we owe this Italian-style theatre to the archit...

Today, I'm off to the Bagnas reserve with my little family for a break in the middle of nature! Among the guided tours offered by the Reserve House, we have opted for bird watching at sunset. We are warmly welcomed by a passionate and exciting guide, who is very educational with children. It's not a bad start! He provides us with binoculars and long sights, allowing us to see wonderful birds (egrets, herons, and flamingos) in great detail, all in a peaceful and green setting!This excursion was also an opportunity to discover more surprising animals, such as turtles, but also many plant species. To our great surprise, our teenagers had a great time, and took advantage of it to take beautiful pictures that will allow us to remember this precious moment when we are four back ...

Share great moments and take advantage of the good weather to discover authentic and unmissable events in Sète.    OURSINADE (mid-March) Every year in Sète, the Oursinade, a large open-air guinguette, attracts visitors who come to taste the best that the Thau Basin has to offer: sea urchins, but also oysters, mussels, tielles and other gastronomic and wine-making delights of the region.   IMAGES SINGULIÈRES (Ascension) Images Singulières is the event that makes Sète exist in the very select world of photography. Devoted to its documentary bent, this festival celebrates, for 15 days, the diversity of views and gives us a glimpse of what words are not always enough to express. Vernissages, exhibitions, concerts, workshops, artists in residence...   K-LIV...

 The Thau Archipelago, a circuit of space and time All eras are found and intertwined on the Thau Archipelago: the Middle Ages and Baroque art, with the Abbey of Valmagne in Villeveyrac or the Abbey of aint-Felix de Montceau in Gigean, the circulating gardens of Balaruc-le-Vieux, the Gallo-Roman centuries, with the Villa des Prés Bas of Loupian and its mosaics of the 2nd century, the Grand Siècle, with the Canal du Midi, or the 17th century, with the Saint-Louis lighthouse, which stands at the end of the mole...  

On holiday, it's not always easy to please everyone! However, the Thau Archipelago offers a lot of good addresses and great escapades to make up memorable days, with young and old alike. Follow the guide!   Dinosaur Park Museum   Ready for a trip back in time? Head to Mont-Mèze for a visit to Europe's largest museum park dedicated to dinosaurs and prehistory. In this large wooded park, located in the heart of an exceptional palaeontological site, your children will shiver with pleasure! Life-size reproductions of dinosaurs, fossils, educational films... All the elements are there to learn and be amazed. Your visit continues in a second part of the park, dedicated to Man and his evolution, which will undoubtedly delight the older children.   A booklet is given to ch...