What to see and do in Marseillan

The useful part

What to see and do in Marseillan in the department of Herault, Occitanie (formerly known as Languedoc Roussillon), a nautical paradise where Noilly Prat is produced, and life is lived at a gentle pace. What to see and do in Marseillan Every summer, the sleepy southern port of Marseillan erupts into a riot of colour and noise for the annual joutes nautiques. Quayside restaurants fill with enthusiastic spectators, while others perch along the harbour edge, legs dangling over the water, cheering loudly for their teams.

How it works

• It captures something many travellers are searching for: authenticity, simplicity and a sense of place.
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• Easily overlooked compared to more famous neighbours such as Sète, Agde and Montpellier, not to mention the Riviera's flashier resorts, this pretty port has a quieter charm.
• This is not a destination for attractions, but somewhere to unwind slowly, enjoying morning markets, long lunches, afternoon swims and evening strolls along the harbour.
• Fishermen unload the day's catch while locals sip coffee and chat as the town gradually awakens.

What to take from it

Founded in the early 19th century, the historic producer creates its signature vermouth using a unique process in which wine is aged outdoors in oak barrels, exposed to sun, sea air and coastal winds. This is somewhere that encourages you to slow down – to linger over long lunches, take the scenic route along the lagoon or canal, and allow the day to unfold at its own gentle rhythm. By evening, the harbour becomes a lively social hub, tables spilling onto the quayside as the scent of grilled seafood fills the air.

Example or evidence

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• Beaches and a lagoon Marseillan Plage © Karen Tait Wander beyond the port and you'll discover the narrow streets, shaded squares and centuries-old buildings of Marseillan Ville, including the 17th-century...
• The calm, nutrient-rich waters of the 75km² Étang de Thau provide ideal conditions for oyster and mussel farming.
• Freshly harvested shellfish can be enjoyed in rustic seafood shacks along the lagoon's edge or in harbour restaurants, ideally paired with a chilled glass of local Picpoul de Pinet.

Details worth keeping

What to see and do in Marseillan Marseillan © Karen Tait. Water jousting is taken very seriously in this corner of France. Reflections shimmer on the water and there's a relaxed buzz in the air.

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