The region's culture and history

The Languedoc Roussillon and in specific the Aude department has a rich culture and history. During your days off the water a visit to one of following cultural or historic sites is unmissable. Looking to do more sports? Click here for other land-based activities in the area.

• The city of Narbonne (25 km) is famous for its 13th century cathedral right in the heart of the old town. Remains of an earlier period can be found literally on the streets in Narbonne; the old Roman road from Rome to Spain crosses the heart of the old town.
• Carcassonne, situated 45 km inland is a reconstructed medieval city with high ramparts and 52 towers. "La Cité" is definitely worth a visit for young and old and the many shops and restaurants make it a day well spent.
• At the foot of the Pyrenees you can find the many remains of the impressive Cathar castles, built high on hilltops to protect the Cathars from the church’s invasions.
• The Canal du Midi was made to connect the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean Sea. Today, the canal with its many bridges and hydraulic works is on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage, for us to see or sail.
• Nîmes Pont du Gard (150 km), Andorra (200 km) and Barcelona (325 km).

Wine, olives, oysters

• The region is famous for wine, and especially her red and rose wines. In and around Narbonne you will find the Corbieres, Minervois and La Clape appellations (A.O.C.) and slightly further to the south Fitou and Rivesaltes. It is easy to get to know these wines: most vineyards welcome visitors to show them round and let them have a taste of their produce. For a more scientific approach to wine you can visit the "Cite de la Vigne et du Vin" in Gruissan.
• If you’re into olives, visit the cooperative l’Oulibo in Bize-Minervois and learn how olive oil is made, taste the different varieties of green and black olives and try the related products such as soap.
• Oyster and mussle production can be found 15 minutes north from Saint Pierre in Gruissan

Animal Life

• The Reserve Africain de Sigean is a wildlife safari park in Sigean, at 30 kilometers distance from Saint Pierre.
• bird watchers: the marshlands of the region make an interesting site to see pink flamingos and other rather rare species.

For the kids

• Aqualand waterparks in Port-Leucate and Cap d'Agde
• Amusement park Pirat Parc in Gruissan (evenings only)
• L'Oustalet mini farm in Saint Pierre