All experiences
Are you on holiday in Frontignan, Mireval and Vic-la-Gardiole? Prepare yourself for unforgettable experiences!
Tasting Muscat wine in the vineyards, visiting wine cellars, going back to nature in the Aresquiers woods, sunbathing on the seafront, pilate paddle, a family bike ride, an escape game in the streets of the town centre... Get ready for a thousand and one experiences, all of them unique, in Frontignan as well as in Mireval and Vic-la-Gardiole!
The school holidays have started and the children already don't know what to do. To get an idea of what to do with the family, I contacted the Tourist Office of Frontignan. Good news, a new treasure hunt has just been inaugurated on the port: the Kraken's secret chest! The name sounds good and I feel that it will amuse young and old.
It's the big day, see you at 10am at the Tourist Office of Frontignan-Plage. The children are eager to discover this new game and of course, to solve the riddles!
The tourist advisor, Marion, gives us a booklet of riddles with a map and a mysterious bag full of objects to help us in our adventure, then explains the story: "The Kraken's chest would have been found off Frontignan. You have to decipher the writings following the clues and find the ...
"- Hi everyone, ready for this little mountain bike trip off the beaten track?
- Hi Paulo, what's up? We're ready for this ride, what have you planned for us?
- Well listen, today I'm not proposing the Gardiole, but rather a "quiet ride with beautiful landscapes". If you like, we'll start by taking the Chemin des Pielles over there, on that stony road, and go along the rails to enter the old salt marshes of Frontignan.
- Perfect, I can't wait to get off the asphalt!
On the programme for this ride: very little downhill, flat, no steep climbs, but breathtaking landscapes and above all, paths between the ponds, the Aresquiers wood and the Mediterranean. Without a sound, we arrive in the heart of the salt flats. We walk through wild spaces, little frequented. We watch t...
Along the lido of Frontignan, there are several beaches where you can enjoy a deckchair or a comfortable mattress to relax facing the Mediterranean Sea. This afternoon, I have a surprise for my fiancée. Head for the Sandaya Tam Tam Beach to relax on the beach!
A beach on the lido of Frontignan
Next to Les Tamaris campsite, the private Sandaya Tam Tam Beach offers a large terrace of 500 m2 with deckchairs, mattresses, hammocks and even four-poster beds! What could be more romantic for a romantic afternoon in the Mediterranean sun?
We arrived on the beach at around 3pm after lunch in one of the restaurants in the heart of Frontignan. The holiday started very well with a delicious meal with Mediterranean flavours.
Now it's time to relax on the beach. We finally choose ...
By Marie - July 2019
During our summer holidays in Frontignan, we go for an initiation to scuba diving on the plateau of Aresquiers. The "Baptême duo" formula proposed by the diving centre is an excellent opportunity to get into the water!
Meeting at the club Plongée Passion on the port of Frontignan
On this Wednesday in July, we meet in the early afternoon at the diving centre located on the east bank of the port of Frontignan. We are welcomed by Pierre and Stéphanie who will be our instructors for this first scuba dive at a depth of 6 meters.
Although I was very enthusiastic about the idea of discovering the underwater world of the Mediterranean Sea, I must admit that I was a bit stressed. But the team of instructors quickly put me at ease and I listen carefully...
Walks in the salt marshes or in the heart of the garrigue, observation of insects and birds, visits to vineyards... These are all experiences that the Tourist Office offers you during a "Nature outing".
Discovery of emblematic places
Whether you are a connoisseur of the wilderness that makes up the Thau Archipelago or an initiate, each "Nature outing" is a great opportunity for you to learn more about the history, fauna and flora that make up the archipelago.
We invite you to meet us near the Occitan villages of Balaruc-les-Bains, Frontignan and Loupian to (re)discover the terraces of the Gardiole, the old salt marshes, the Aresquiers wood, the abbey of Saint-Félix, the gulf of Aigues-Mortes...
So, open your eyes wide so as not to miss anything of the landscapes of the ...
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 ...
Between vine cultivation and natural areas as far as the eye can see, Frontignan is full of treasures to discover during your stay: the municipal museum of Frontignan; the old salt marshes... To help you with your programme, we've put together a list of the must-sees with a little bonus!
Frontignan
There is the Lido of Paris and, in a slightly more natural genre, but just as surprising, the lido of Frontignan, this sublime strip of land which separates the sea from the ponds, which you will love to cycle around. We warn you right away: underwater adventurers will not be able to resist a little diving, and then rest on its 7 km of beaches.
In Frontignan, you can also explore the splendid muscatel vineyards and fill your lungs with the fresh air and the delicate scent of Aleppo ...
Famous for its Muscat wine, Frontignan knows how to celebrate its nectar with dignity, but not only that... Meet up throughout the summer to discover its traditions: Fête de la Mer, Fête du Port de plaisance, Joutes... Or even take a break from reading during the FiRN.
International Festival of Noir Novels
If you are looking for your next book list for your holiday in the Thau Archipelago, go to Frontignan at the end of June to attend the International Festival of Noir Novels or more commonly known as the FiRN.
It is on this occasion that some forty authors, French and foreign, great names or emerging talents, meet to present their works from literature to comics.
During these few days, round tables, exhibitions, readings, film screenings, live shows and festive bl...
By Ludivine - June 2019
Located under the halles just behind the town hall, Frontignan's market remains a must-see place to stock up on local produce. It's Saturday morning and we start our Mediterranean holiday with a trip to the market in the heart of the seaside resort.
Strolling around the covered market
We start by strolling around the covered market where many stalls are set up in front of the halls. There are a few fairground vendors and craftsmen unpacking all sorts of goods, from wicker baskets to brightly coloured scarves and small manufactured goods.
As we approach the halls, we are attracted by the scent of Mediterranean spices: oregano, basil, cinnamon, coriander and Provençal herbs... I can't resist these beautiful black olives in marinade which will be ...
By Ludivine - July 2021
This summer, Frontignan is celebrating its Muscat wine in several events. As I am not from the region, the tourist office advised me to take part in the Musc'Halles to discover the local terroir. What is the Musc'Halles? An oenology workshop lasting about half an hour organised around the Halles during the traditional Thursday market.
Several slots are offered from 10am to 1pm. I personally booked for the one at 11:30. When I arrived at the Halles de Frontignan, I found the stand just behind it, which I could spot thanks to its barrels and its yellow banner.
I am welcomed by Valérie from the Tourist Office who introduces me to our oenologist, Didier Duquenoy, and invites me to sit around a barrel. It's rather convivial, there are 3 of us per bar...
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...
For a prestigious and luxurious stay, the Archipelago of Thau is the place to go for your next holiday. Here, you can expect a thousand and one top-of-the-range experiences in beautiful accommodation, restaurants....
The Miramar villa
Facing the Mediterranean, with its back to the Thau basin, this is the setting that awaits you at the Villa Miramar!
Located in Frontignan, this exceptional guest house, with its 5 "épis" rating from the Gîtes de France, offers four rooms and an unusual cabin, all of which open onto the sea, as well as numerous services and facilities that will make your prestigious stay unforgettable.
You can, for example, take advantage of the 17-metre long heated infinity pool to take a dip before enjoying your cocktail on the immersed terrace, o...
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 best time to go is early in the morning at sunrise, when the colours on the pond and the shadows of the flamingos will immerse you in a special atmosphere.
But first of all, what is birdwatching? It is a new tourist activity that comes from our English neighbours who are very fond of nature, fauna and flora. In France, we call it "birdwatching". It's 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 kind ...
A unique paddle trip with tasting.
I wanted to do a different water activity, something out of the ordinary. I was told about something, I was told "Why don't you try the Paddle Muscat in Frontignan?
Ok, I jump at the chance. I call Jean Christophe from Tiki Center. He tells me there's room for the 19th of July and that he'll reserve a paddle for me, but that I have to pay at the Tourist Office shop. That's fine. I meet again at 7pm, 12 people on the parking of the roundabout of the windsurfers of Frontignan-Plage.After a short course on land and JC's explanation about the fragile sea bed, we can sail. We leave for an hour and a half of paddle on the Ingril pond. We sail calmly towards the canal of the Rhône à Sète, there is not too much wind, it's nice.
I still find...
What better way to (re)discover the Thau Archipelago, its towns and monuments through a treasure hunt during your family holiday? This is the experience you can have in Sète, Villeveyrac, Frontignan-Plage or Balaruc-les-Bains. Don't wait any longer!
Barberoussette: the treasure hunt for young and old (Sète)
According to legend, the famous pirate Barberoussette was active in the maritime city at the end of the 16th century and hid his treasure there. Even today, many adventurers have tried to find it... Without success! Fortunately for you, the pirate left several pieces of the map that allow you to find his riches in Sète.
But before you can hope to find them all, you will have to solve several riddles related to the monuments and history of Sète. Go to the tour...
The ideal place for a nature break, Frontignan will give you a new lease of life!
We booked for our weekend a bed and breakfast in the district of Frontignan-Plage. Welcomed in this pretty flat by the sea, we enjoy an evening picnic on the sand.Waking up to the sound of the waves
We have seen that sports classes are offered on the beach. So we will enjoy a yoga session to start the day. Then, we go to a beach restaurant, it's the opportunity to eat fresh fish!
From there, we rent bikes, we were told about the Muscat festival, and we intend to discover this wine of grape variety "muscat petits grains" which makes the reputation of the city. We head for the city centre to discover this famous Muscat as well as the other wines of the area. We take our tasting tickets and o...
Summer is shaping up to be beautiful, hot and long... the perfect recipe for a lovely evening with friends or family. But what about spicing things up with an unusual experience at sunset? That's what we've come up with in this top list of things to do at dusk!
Kayakmed
We're off to a great start with a sea kayaking excursion on the Bassin de Thau. But before you take to the water with your paddle, let your instructor tell you what's in store for you on this tour with the evocative name "Sun Sète" (6-9pm). Once you've been introduced to the water, you can finally head off in the direction of Les Thocs, a real lagoon in Languedoc. It's here that you can watch the sunset while sipping a glass of local Muscat. Find out more here.
A little extra: Kayakmed has been awarded ...
Looking for an idea for your Sunday walks despite the winter? The Archipelago of Thau is the place to go to get some fresh air and enjoy the mild temperatures of southern France. That's why we've put together a short list of places to go for a walk, so all you have to do is make your choice: a guided tour of the Bagnas reserve, an iodine bowl along the Lido, birdwatching at the old salt pans of Frontignan...
The Bagnas reserve: To be discovered freely or with a guide
Situated on 561 hectares between Marseillan and Cap d'Agde, the Bagnas reserve has become over the years a paradise for birds and nature lovers alike. Now protected, it can be discovered through the anecdotes of one of the guides of the Maison de la Nature or freely for a little more adventure.
You can, for...
My wife Martine, my two children Hugo and Chloé, and myself, decided to go on holiday this summer to Frontignan. During the holidays, the water sports centre offers activities for young and old. The only rule is to know how to swim.
We are reassured to see them go with qualified instructors. You can do Stand up Paddle, Yoga Paddle, windsurfing, sailing, diving, canoeing. Not easy to choose. We signed up our son for a week's canoeing course and our daughter for an Optimist course.
The children were delighted, they were well supervised and discovered the pleasure of group activities. They felt empowered and as a bonus, they had a great time! The team that welcomed us was professional and friendly! It is certain that children and parents will be delighted to participate! Every...
There's nothing like the warmth of a tasty dish to cheer you up when the temperatures drop! Our local specialities, mostly based on fish and seafood, are ideal for indulging yourself while eating locally.
Cuttlefish rust
This is a speciality with a reputation that is well established! Melting pieces of cuttlefish, dipped in a simmering tomato sauce and bound with a delicious aioli... To be enjoyed with potatoes, rice or tagliatelle. A dish whose finesse and flavours will make you fall over, to be discovered in all the good restaurants of the Thau Archipelago.
Stuffed squid
Squid? What's that? They are in fact small squids whose tube (i.e. the body without the tentacles) measures between 8 and 14 centimetres.
Delicately stuffed with a mixture of sausage...
Discover the many facets of Frontignan, Mireval and Vic-la-Gardiole through our selection of photos...
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 ...
From the foothills of the Gardiole to the shores of the Thau lagoon, here more than anywhere else the vineyards reflect their past. Sun-drenched clay-limestone soils, a combination of wind and a favourable micro-climate, this was all it took for the Etruscans, Greeks and Romans to invest in this terroir and plant vines here. Two millennia later, one of the oldest vineyards in France continues its wine odyssey.
A long maturation
Sète was still an uninhabited mountain when, in 1666, Louis XIV ordered the construction of a port to facilitate the export of wine throughout Europe. The area produced mainly white wine. Until then, vines had been confined to the plateaux, but they were soon planted on the plains and ended up producing high yields of poor quality wine: a red wave ...