Camping Le Val de Cesse

Start in Narbonne, where you wander through the covered market halls, see the Via Domitia, and admire the gothic cathedral. Stroll through lively streets to the Quai de la Robine for a drink by the water. Then, in just fifteen minutes, drive on to the beaches of Gruissan: wide sandy stretches, shallow water, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. At the lagoons you'll find oyster bars and wooden stilt houses with beautiful views. Prefer something active? Rent a SUP or try kitesurfing when the tramontane wind blows. End your day with an ice cream on the boulevard or a table by the sea. Culture in the morning, beach in the afternoon: holiday as it should be.

Wine and nature go hand in hand here. Tour through Minervois and Corbières, taste spicy red wines and olive oil at small estates. Continue to the lagoons of Gruissan (Natura 2000) for birdwatching — flamingos in the right season — or take a walk along wooden boardwalks with views of salt flats. Finish with oysters and seafood in a cozy brasserie by the water. Pure flavors, wide vistas, and yet very relaxed.

In the lagoons around Gruissan, you can spot flamingos in the right season. At sunrise or sunset, the water and sky are tinged a soft pink and you’ll see small groups foraging in the shallow water. Follow the wooden walkways and viewing points, bring binoculars and look out for quiet zones. Combine your walk with a tasting of local oysters: nature and flavour in one outing. Best period: late spring to early autumn.