Dunes and Sun
CAMPSITE NEAR THE ETANG DE THAU
Go on a camping trip near the Etang de Thau in the Hérault department and discover this huge seawater lagoon in the heart of the Occitanie region. Covering more than 7,500 hectares, this natural basin, separated from the Mediterranean by a fine barrier beach, offers a wealth of natural biodiversity. It’s also an ideal destination for outdoor pursuits, including a variety of water sports in a remarkably unspoilt setting. The renowned seaside resorts on the shores of the Etang de Thau attract holidaymakers in search of nature and excitement. Balaruc-les-Bains is renowned for its thermal baths, and Sète for its central location between the sea and the lagoon. The village of Marseillan, meanwhile, is famous for its 4 kilometres of beaches and its pointe des Onglous, where the Canal du Midi ends.
L'ÉTANG DE THAU, AN UNSPOILT NATURAL SETTING
The Etang de Thau is a vast body of water, a veritable inland sea of incredible biodiversity. More than half of its territory is classified as a protected area in order to preserve this wealth, particularly from intensive tourism. The pond is a natural environment unique in Europe, home to more than 400 plant species and 100 animal species, including sea urchins and speckled seahorses.
The réserve naturelle du Bagnas, located between Marseillan and Cap d’Agde in the area where the Canal du Midi meets the sea at the pointe des Onglous, is classified Natura 2000 and is home to numerous animal species, in particular insects over 200 bird species. It’s the perfect place for budding ornithologists and walkers looking to survey spreserved areas in an enchanting setting! If you’re lucky, you might even spot herons, pink flamingos and a variety of birds of prey.
LAND-BASED ACTIVITIES AND WATER-BASED LEISURE AROUND THAU LAGOON
The biologically rich natural environment of the Etang de Thau invites you to enjoy environmentally-friendly leisure activities. So it’s only natural that you should opt for walking or cycling to discover this tourist area of the Hérault. All around the lagoon, developed paths allow you to walk as close to nature as possible, along the vineyards, the Canal du Midi or the coastline. A cycle path links Marseillan-Plage to Cap d’Adge, and the 57-kilometre loop around the lagoon links the various neighbouring towns: Marseillan, Mèze, Bouzigues, Balaruc-les-Bains and Sète.
For a gentle approach to the local flora and fauna, you can also opt for the water route: explore the lagoon by canoe or opt for a snorkelling or diving session! The lagoon is a mecca for nautical activities. It is home to a large number of pleasure boats and around ten sailing clubs. Your holiday near the Etang de Thau is the perfect opportunity to try your hand at kite surfing, sailing or kayaking. Stand-up paddling is also an excellent way to get close to the oyster beds and harbours in complete peace and quiet.
At Sète and Marseillan-Plage, the Mediterranean coastline rolls out its fine sand over several kilometres. Perfect for lazing around after a kite surfing session or a hike!
GASTRONOMY ON THE ÉTANG DE THAU!
The Thau lagoon is the Mediterranean capital of oyster farming. Make the most of your holiday to explore the shellfish beds, which cover more than 1,300 hectares on the north shore of the lagoon. Meet the local shellfish farmers and sample the Bouzigues oyster or the Tarbouriech, which was created on site.
The other local speciality that goes so well with oysters is wine! The Côtes de Thau and Picpoul de Pinet vineyards around the pond and in the Languedoc-Roussillon plain produce some very good whites. During your stay, you can visit cellars and estates and taste these exceptional products. Marseillan is also famous for its vermouth, produced by Noilly Prat and exported all over the world. After a visit to the winery, treat yourself to a tasting session in moderation!
DUNES ET SOLEIL CAMPSITE NEAR THE ÉTANG DE THAU
Book now at camping Dunes et Soleil près de l’étang de Thau in Hérault to discover this exceptional natural site. Ideally located at Marseillan Plage, this 4-star campsite is close to the town centre and has direct access to Marseillan’s plage d’Honneur. It’s the ideal place for a family holiday or a holiday with friends. The Dunes et Soleil campsite offers lodge tents and equipped mobile homes for hire for maximum comfort. On site, children can enjoy a vast water park with slide and paddling pool. Sports facilities and a children’s club in high season have also been provided to ensure everyone has plenty of holiday memories.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ON THAU LAGOON
Where to stay near Etang de Thau?
A campsite at Marseillan Plage is ideal for discovering the area around the Etang de Thau, with easy access to the beach and the Bagnas nature reserve.
What are the most beautiful beaches around the Etang de Thau?
The most beautiful beaches around the Etang de Thau are the beaches at Balaruc-les-Bains along the Georges Brassens promenade and the Petite Plagette at Mèze. On the adjoining Mediterranean, the Robinson and Rieu beaches in Marseillan and the Lazaret beach in Sète are among the most famous.
What are the must-visit sites around the Etang de Thau?
During your holiday at a campsite near the Etang de Thau, don’t miss a visit to the Noilly-Prat wine cellars and oyster-farming ponds. The nearby Bagnas nature reserve and the Canal du Midi are also well worth a visit.
DISCOVER THE MUST-SEES IN THE HÉRAULT REGION