Meet the South of France gem you can reach by lunchtime

Words: Lucy Thackray

A few short hours from the UK’s airports lies a relaxed, inclusive slice of Southern France – Cap d’Agde. Unspoiled, dune-backed coastline, cycling trails, wineries and pretty villages all lie within easy reach of Montpellier airport, little more than two hours by plane with British Airways from London Gatwick. Grab your hire car and you could be on a Mediterranean beach within an hour. Rochelongue Plage might be top of your list, with its broad, powdery-soft sands and views to the 16th-century Fort de Brescou, though with 25km of sandy, Blue Flag beaches you’re spoilt for choice. In their hinterland, you’ll find charming villages such as Montagnac, with its mediaeval bell tower and dynamic wineries. Cap d’Agde is also recognised with the Famille Plus label – a nationwide stamp of approval for family travel – and parents of everyone from toddlers to teens will find it inclusive, friendly and stacked with activities for all ages. This is France as the French do it: peaceful, authentic and under the radar.

Here are four ways to immerse yourself in Cap d’Agde…

Authentic villages

Some 20 enchanting towns and villages in the area mean plenty of choice for culture and sightseeing. Start with Pézenas, a swirl of cobblestone streets peppered with artists’ studios and craft workshops – expect glassblowing, sculpting, ironwork and embroidery. It has links to the playwright Molière and hosts a series of vivid carnivals and festivals throughout the year, too. More hushed is Pomérols, where traces of Roman farms have recently been found, which is home to the pretty 13th-century Saint-Cyr chapel and a Thursday produce market. Then there’s Caux, with its picturesque belfry and circular mediaeval village. Most of Cap d’Agde’s villages have lovely markets (check here for the correct day), while many are atmospheric spots to stop for lunch and an ice cream after a winery tour. 

Active pursuits

Whatever your group’s ages, you’ll find ways to keep moving. Cycling and hiking routes abound in and around Cap d’Agde, with 550km of cycling trails alone to explore. Follow the Canal du Midi on the 27.6km stretch between Portiragnes and Agde, spying longboats and water birds along the way. Or hike or kayak to see the dramatic volcanic cliffs at Plage de la Grande Conque. Boat trips to the Fort de Brescou or along the canal are glorious ways to explore by water. Babies and toddlers will love the mini trains along the coast from Esplanade Pierre Racine, while several theme parks, including Pirates World water park and Luna Park for rides and amusements, will delight school-age kids.

Wine culture

There’s a strong winemaking heritage here, best seen at the dozens of postcard-perfect wine estates that trim nearby towns. The Hérault wine region excels at crisp, dry Picpoul de Pinet, robust, peppery Faugères reds, sweet Muscats and more. Many wineries offer tours and tastings – Seigneurie de Peyrat can even organise a picnic among the vines after your tour. The Château de Preignes le Vieux is a listed historical monument with a 12th-century chapel, while the Terroir d’Art et de Nature route takes you to striking sculptures and public art as well as wine farms. For a mix of exercise and indulgence, look out for ‘wine hike’ routes that connect up the vineyards on foot.

Bountiful beaches

Beaches may be your top reason to come here, or just a place to recline after days of cycling and sightseeing. Beloved by locals and domestic French tourists, Cap d’Agde’s sands – Môle, Roquille, La Plagette, Richelieu – are characterised by a natural look, framed by grassy dunes, while La Grande Conque is famous for its volcanic rock formations. Clear, clean waters are safe for children to play and swim, and there are ample restaurants and facilities nearby. If you’re itching to try a new hobby, sailing and kayaking are on offer, while teens will love snorkelling or paddleboarding as a more relaxed way to splash about. And don’t forget delectably fresh fruits de mer – mussels au gratin, Étang de Thau oysters and cuttlefish are all on the menu.

Fly direct to Montpellier from London Gatwick. Find out more at capdagde.com