City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Sete, France
Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Étang de Thau lagoon, west of Marseille, Sète is a charming coastal town in the Occitanie region of southern France. Sète offers a delightful blend of maritime history, fishing culture, beautiful canals, the golden sand of the Plage de la Corniche and French Riviera charm.
Whether you're drawn to its natural beauty, cuisine or cultural attractions, Sète has something for every traveler. Here are some of the top attractions you should explore when visiting this enchanting port city from a transient slip, resort or boat lift rental.
Mont Saint-Clair
For breathtaking panoramic views of Sète, the surrounding coastline and the vast Étang de Thau, a visit to Mont Saint-Clair is a must. This hill rises 600 feet above sea level and offers a fantastic vantage point to take in the town’s scenic beauty. The winding path to the summit is lined with Mediterranean plants and flowers. At the top, you’ll find the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette (pictured above), a peaceful sanctuary decorated with colorful murals.
Canal Royal and the Venice of Languedoc
Sète is often called the Venice of Languedoc because of its intricate network of canals that crisscross the town. The Canal Royal, one of the main waterways, is especially scenic and lively. Strolling along its banks, you'll witness traditional fishing boats, colorful houses and bustling fish markets. The canal is the heart of Sète’s maritime life, and many annual festivals, including the famous water jousting competitions, take place here. The canals are a great setting to enjoy a leisurely boat ride from a private boat dock for rent.
Étang de Thau
Sète's lagoon, the Étang de Thau (also known as the Bassin de Thau), is the second-largest saltwater lake in France and a center for oyster and mussel farming. Foodies should not miss the opportunity to visit the local shellfish farms and sample fresh oysters straight from the source. The lagoon provides a picturesque setting for kayaking, sailing and bird-watching, with a rich variety of bird species thriving in its wetlands.
Les Halles de Sète
For a true taste of Sète, a visit to Les Halles, the town’s vibrant indoor market, is a must whether you’re coming from a resort or a private boat dock for rent. This bustling market is a sensory feast, offering everything from fresh seafood, local cheeses and charcuterie to aromatic herbs and pastries. The market is particularly renowned for its fresh fish and seafood, reflecting Sète’s strong fishing heritage. It’s the perfect place to pick up ingredients for a picnic or to enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many food stalls.
Parc Simone Veil
Originally named the Jardin du Château d’Eau, Parc Simone Veil is a beautiful public garden near the heart of town. This green oasis is centered around an impressive water tower and offers lush paths shaded by Mediterranean trees, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or a peaceful day trip from a private boat lift rental or marina.
The Théâtre de la Mer
One of Sète’s most unique venues is the Théâtre de la Mer, an open-air amphitheater on the edge of the Mediterranean. Built within an old fort, this stunning location hosts concerts, plays and other cultural events throughout the year. The backdrop of the sea and sky creates a magical atmosphere, especially during summer performances. The theater is home to several festivals, including the world-renowned Festival de Jazz à Sète.
Maritime Museum
Given Sète’s deep ties to the sea, the Musée de la Mer (Maritime Museum) is an important stop for those interested in maritime history. The museum offers fascinating exhibits on the town’s fishing industry, boat-building techniques and its role as a vital port. Check out artifacts from the region’s long-standing tradition of water jousting, an iconic sport in Sète.
