Here, there’s no concrete skyline or crowded beach in sight. Just the song of the cicadas, the sound of...waves and that little breeze from the South whispering to you: “Let go of your computer and come escape.” In Occitanie, the Mediterranean showcases its most beautiful charms to take you on 100% nature adventures, guided by the sun and exploring the wildest corners of the coast.
The Camargue: a land of wildlife and flora in a thousand colors
First stop: the Gard Camargue. A land of contrasts and traditions, it offers breathtaking scenes with salt ponds, horseback rides, and moon-like beaches such as Espiguette. Here, you’ll see pink flamingos and ranchers moving with charming nonchalance, before ending the day watching the sunset, rosé glass in hand, with your feet in the sand. Aigues-Mortes and its medieval ramparts keep watch over this almost unreal setting.
© Olivier Octobre CRTL Occitanie
The Languedoc Coast and Its Spectacular Beaches
Next stop, the Hérault, with its Languedoc coastline that loves to play dress-up: lively seaside resorts like La Grande Motte and Cap d'Agde, contrasted with the quieter ports of Marseillan and Balaruc. You can stroll between fishermen's markets, enjoy tastings of oysters in the huts by the Thau lagoon, and soak in stunning sunsets on private beaches. And if you feel like swapping your towel for a glass of muscat, Montpellier, Pézenas, or Sète are there to add a cultural touch to your getaways.
© Les Michmich’ en Vadrouille CRTL Occitanie
The Aude coastline, a paradise for water activities
Further south, Aude is welcoming you with open arms. Here, it’s all about freedom: kitesurfing on the windy beaches of La Franqui, salty hikes through the vineyards of La Clape, and bike rides between lagoons and pine forests. It’s raw, it’s beautiful, it’s real. Gruissan, Leucate, or 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 Eastern Pyrenees
Finally, the finishing touch: the Eastern Pyrenees and its stunning Côte Vermeille. This is where the Mediterranean flirts with the mountains. From Barcarès to Collioure, the beaches gradually give way to hidden coves, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views that will leave you almost forgetting to breathe. The Canigó watches over this natural theater where you can hike along cliffs by the sea, enjoy wild swims, and explore heritage sites. Collioure, with its colorful houses and artist-filled streets, wraps up your journey like a living postcard.
© Stephane Ferrer - Argeles Tourisme CRTL Occitanie
Far from the noise and showboating, the Mediterranean coast of Occitanie is a playground for free spirits. Wild, generous, and authentic, it's waiting for you to create your own fabulous journey.
