Sète (Montpellier), France

A Tapestry of Canals, Culture and Coastal Charm

Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the picturesque landscapes of southern France – our Somma voyage on the French Riviera whisks us away to Sète. With enchanting canals and colorful fishing boats at its heart – Sete also offers our guests a gateway to the elegant and beautiful city of Montpellier. Become captivated by the stunning architecture and vivid blend of historical charm with youthful energy that infuses this city with creativity and innovation. Somma takes us to places that feed our adventurous spirit.

“The beauty of Sète lies not just in its landscapes but in the life that flows through its canals.”

— Jean-Claude Izzo

Highlights

Sète, situated between the Mediterranean Sea and Thau Lake, is celebrated for its scenic canals and vibrant architecture. Sète’s unique landscape features 12 bridges, beautifully restored 18th-century buildings and lively squares, reflecting its rich history as a fishing hub since the era of Louis XIV. The bustling port in its historic city center is home to fishing trawlers and traditional Catalan boats, while La Pointe Courte, a small quaint fishermen’s neighborhood, embodies the town’s oyster farming and fishing heritage known in French as ‘conchyliculture’. The Quartier Haut is reminiscent of Southern Italy. Nearby Montpellier offers elegant architecture and sandy beaches.

Arc de Triomphe in Montpellier, France
canals of Sète

Port and Canals

Strolling through the port of Sète filled with quaint shops, colorful boats and historic warehouses allows visitors to enjoy its maritime culture. A boat ride through the canals offers a unique perspective of the city, showcasing its charming architecture and lively waterfront atmosphere. The area is particularly vibrant during market days and local festivals, such as the Feast of Saint Louis, which features maritime jousting and street performances.

Château de Flaugergues

Wine Tours and Tastings

There are several excellent wineries and wine tasting opportunities in the area surrounding Sète featuring renowned rosés, reds and whites. One notable destination is the Château de Flaugergues, located in Montpellier, which is easily accessible from the port.

Sete Beach 2

Beautiful Beaches

Sète boasts beautiful beaches along its 12 km of coastline, including Lazaret, Lido, La Fontaine or Jalabert Beach. These spots are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, water sports and enjoying the Mediterranean scenery.

Mont Saint-Clair

Mont Saint-Clair

Mont Saint-Clair offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Mediterranean Sea and the Etang de Thau. The hill rises 175 meters and is ideal for hiking, with a picturesque chapel, Notre-Dame de la Salette, at the summit, featuring stunning frescoes.

Saint-Louis Lighthouse

Saint-Louis Lighthouse

Climb the 120 steps of this historic lighthouse for a stunning 360-degree view of the port and the city. The lighthouse, built around 1680 and reconstructed in 1948 after its destruction during World War II, stands as a historic beacon signaling the entrance to the port of Sète with its distinctive red light.

Dave Koz - Why I Love...

Why I Love Sète (Montpellier)

Sète is a vibrant fishing port where I could happily spend all afternoon strolling its picturesque canals, enjoying the activity of this bustling community and exploring the local markets. If you have a penchant for raw oysters as I do, you absolutely must sit at a canalside café and savor the famous “Bouzigues”, the oysters of the Etang de Thau! Just under 20 miles north of Sète is the beautiful city of Montpellier, if you wish to experience a bit more of the hustle and bustle in the South of France. It’s shockingly brilliant how much of its downtown is actually a pedestrian zone! Savor the perfection of a chocolate croissant from a café in the main square (La Comedie), then meander through the park to the Fabre Museum of Art to admire paintings from the French Renaissance to the 20th century. And then carry on to the shopping district–you won’t be sorry! Stylish French clothing, footwear, jewelry and leather goods…Tres magnifique!

Join us for a trip of a lifetime

Set sail with Somma French Riviera “Côte d’Azur” and discover the ultimate in relaxation and adventure. With amazing cuisine, breathtaking views, luxurious accommodations and world-class entertainment, it’s the perfect way to experience the beauty of the French Riviera.

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