Here, there is no concrete skyline or crowded beach on the horizon. Just the sound of cicadas, the noise of...waves and that little southern breeze whispering to you: “Leave your computer behind, and come escape.” In Occitania, the Mediterranean shows off its finest features to take you on 100% nature adventures, guided by the sun and charting a course through the wildest spots along the coast.
The Camargue: land of fauna and flora in a thousand colors
First stop: the Camargue region. A land of contrasts and traditions, it showcases breathtaking scenes with salt ponds, horseback rides, and lunar beaches like Espiguette. Here, you’ll encounter pink flamingos and cowboys with a charming nonchalance, before wrapping up the day facing the sunset, a glass of rosé in hand, toes in the sand. Aigues-Mortes and its medieval ramparts keep watch over this almost unreal backdrop.
© Olivier Octobre CRTL Occitanie
The Languedoc Coast and Its Spectacular Beaches
Next, we head to Hérault, where the Languedoc coast showcases its chameleon-like charm: lively resorts like La Grande Motte or Cap d'Agde contrast with the more intimate ports of Marseillan or Balaruc. You can wander through bustling fish markets, savor fresh oysters at the huts by the Thau lagoon, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets on private beaches. And if you're in the mood to swap your towel for a glass of muscat, Montpellier, Pézenas, or Sète are just the places to add a cultural twist to your outings.
© Les Michmich’ en Vadrouille CRTL Occitanie
The Aude Coast, a paradise for water activities
Further south, Aude welcomes you with open arms. Here, it's all about freedom: kitesurfing on the windy beaches of La Franqui, refreshing hikes through the vineyards of La Clape, and lovely bike rides between lagoons and pine forests. It's raw, it's beautiful, it's real. Gruissan, Leucate, and Saint-Pierre-la-Mer don’t need any frills to charm you: their markets, local producers, and endless beaches do all the talking.
© Richard Sprang - Open to the Public CRTL Occitanie
The famous Côte Vermeille in the Pyrénées-Orientales
And finally, the finishing touch: the Pyrénées-Orientales and its stunning Côte Vermeille. This is where the Mediterranean flirts with the mountains. From Barcarès to Collioure, the beaches slowly give way to hidden coves, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views that might just take your breath away. The Canigó stands watch over this natural theater where hiking along the sea, wild swims, and cultural discoveries come together. Collioure, with its colorful houses and artist-filled streets, wraps up the journey like a living postcard.
© Stephane Ferrer - Argeles Tourisme CRTL Occitanie
Far from the noise and the fuss, the Mediterranean coast of Occitanie is a playground for free spirits. Wild, generous, and authentic, it awaits you to create your own fabulous journey.
