10 Reasons to Visit: Cap d’Agde

3. Natural beauty to behold
Aside from 14km of fine sand spread across 11 spacious beaches, there is a network of cycle paths designed for discovering Mont Saint-Loup and the volcanic cliffs. Of course, the River Hérault and the lakes attached to Bagnas nature reserve are not to be forgotten.

4. See some protected species
Bagnas nature reserve is home to 250 types of bird, including pink flamingos and black storks. Elsewhere, marine reserve Posidonies du Cap d’Agde offers visitors the chance to find out what’s living in the local marine environment. The coastal path also allows visitors to study the flora and fauna at close range.

5. Family fun
Wherever you notice the Famille Plus label, you can be confident of having found a place where the whole family can relax and enjoy themselves. In Cap d’Agde, the label is displayed by those offering suitable accommodation, leisure activities and meals.

6. 2,600 years of history to discover
Agde is one of the oldest cities in France. It is also known as ‘the black pearl of the Mediterranean’ because of the basalt it is built on. A trip to Cathedral Saint Etienne and Musée de l’Ephèbe (for underwater artefacts) is essential.

7. Where the Canal du Midi meets the Mediterranean
This is where you’ll find the city of Agde, which boasts three ports. Unsurprisingly, nautical activities are big business. Boats are available to hire but if you’re looking to buy, the annual Salon Nautique takes place 31 October – 4 November this year.

8. All sorts of activities on offer
Families with young children will be thrilled to discover the various leisure parks especially for them, not to mention the beaches, walks and cycle rides on offer. Hopefully, older children and adults will be as animated about the chance to try canoeing, sea fishing and diving.

9. Seafood a speciality!
Fresh fish arrives daily and is the basis of many local specialities. Salt water turbot is particularly prized and a dessert made with pine nuts is another delicacy. However, Cap d’Agde is also famous for its wines, such as Clairette du Languedoc, Picpoul de Pinet and Grès de Montpellier.

10. Accommodation to suit all
If you need a place to stay, there is plenty of choice in Cap d’Agde, to cater for any budget. Boutique B&Bs await, as well as hotels with stars and swimming pools, in addition to holiday villages, campsites and private apartments for rent.