1. Overview of Sète
Sète is a charming fishing village located just 18 miles (28 kilometers) southeast of Montpellier. Renowned for its vibrant fishing port, this destination boasts buildings painted in rich ochre, rust, and blue hues. Known for offering some of the best seafood in France, Sète is a great base for exploring the surrounding region and the captivating Mediterranean coast.
2. What to See
The upper part of Sète climbs Mont St-Clair leading to the panoramic parc des Pierres Blanches. Here, visitors are treated to sweeping views over the bassin de Thau, the Cevennes, le pic St-Loup, and the coast adorned with lakes and quaint towns. On a clear day, the stunning Pyrenees can be seen, as well as the eastern Alpilles hills.
Another highlight is the Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette chapel, originally part of a hermitage built by the Duke of Montmorency for protection against pirates. A marked path leads to the sailor’s cemetery, home to the notable tomb of renowned poet Paul Valéry, alongside French actor and theater director Jean Vilar.
The Paul Valéry Museum showcases works of those inspired by Sète, including original editions, manuscripts, and watercolors dedicated to the poet. Furthermore, music enthusiasts can visit the Espace Brassens dedicated to the famed singer-songwriter Georges Brassens.
The old port serves as the lively heart of the town, where little bridges cross the canals leading to a myriad of restaurants and bars. The Môle St-Louis, built in 1666, now serves as a training base for elite sailing.
Additionally, make sure to check out the CRAC (Centre regional d’art contemporain), a contemporary art gallery converted from an old fish freezing warehouse, hosting excellent temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
3. It’s All About the Sea
The beaches are a significant draw for visitors to Sète. The plage du Lazaret is conveniently located near the town center, while just a little over a mile (two kilometers) away lies la plage de la Corniche, which is perfect for children. For those looking for a gentle stroll, the six-mile (10 kilometers) stretch of fine golden sand to Marseillan is highly recommended.
4. Water Sports
Water sports enthusiasts will find Sète to be an ideal destination, offering a plethora of activities ranging from sailing to swimming and scuba diving. Furthermore, Sète hosts exciting water-jousting tournaments, where teams in boats attempt to unseat their opponents using lances, adding to the thrilling atmosphere.
5. Day Trips From Sète
As an excellent base for day trips, Sète opens the door to numerous nearby attractions. The coastal town of Agde, located at the western end of the Bassin de Thau, was originally founded as a Phoenician trading post. To the south of Mont St-Loup, Cap d’Agde stands out as one of France’s largest naturist resorts.
Further east, Nîmes showcases remarkable Roman architecture. Meanwhile, Aigues-Mortes, known as the “city of dead waters,” offers good hotels and breathtaking views from its defensive ramparts. Finally, don’t miss the chance to explore the beautiful but underrated Côte Vermeille near the French-Spanish border.
6. Where to Stay
The Orque Bleue Hotel stands out as a charming boutique hotel located right by the canal and fishing port. Housed in a 19th-century building, it features 30 tastefully decorated rooms along with a convenient garage.
For a more upscale option, consider the Grand Hôtel, which overlooks the canal. Offering large, comfortable rooms, a pool, and a gym, this 3-star hotel also boasts a bistro-style restaurant with excellent seafood and fish dishes.
7. Where and What to Eat
One cannot visit Sète without indulging in the local specialty, bouillabaisse, a hearty fish and shellfish stew that originated as a budget-friendly meal for fishermen. Other delightful dishes include le tielle, a fish and tomato tart, and la rouille de seiche, a blend of fish with tomato sauce and aioli.
Chez François
8 Quai Général Durand, 34200 Sète
Phone: 00 33 (0)4 67 74 59 69
Known for its fresh seafood, particularly mussels, this restaurant also operates a fish shop at Port-Loupian.
Paris Méditerranée
47 Rue Pierre Semard, 34200 Sète
Phone: 00 33 (0)4 67 74 97 73
A delightful husband-and-wife-run establishment featuring an outdoor terrace, famous for its exceptional seafood and welcoming service.
