Explore the Etang de Thau from Camping Les Cigales
Between Sète and Marseillan, theEtang de Thau is a vast Mediterranean lagoon renowned for its shellfish farming and soothing landscapes. From Camping Les Cigales, this emblematic site can be reached in less than 40 minutes, perfect for a family excursion combining discovery, gastronomy and nature.
An exceptional natural and gastronomic site
TheEtang de Thau is the largest lagoon in the Languedoc region, a veritable Mediterranean open-air ecosystem stretching over 7,500 hectares between Sète and Marseillan. The lagoon is world-renowned for its shellfish farming, particularly the Bouzigues oysters, which are raised on oyster tables visible from the shore. The lagoon is also home to exceptional biodiversity: flamingos, herons, egrets and migratory fish all find refuge in this unspoilt environment. Nature lovers can observe this fauna throughout the seasons, while gourmet enthusiasts can visit the shellfish farms in the ports of Mèze, Bouzigues or Marseillan.
Producers offer guided tours of their wineries, with tastings on site, often on terraces overlooking the water. At the same time, the villages bordering the lagoon offer a typically Mediterranean charm, with their narrow streets, colorful markets and small restaurants. The Etang de Thau is thus a place that combines natural heritage, culinary tradition and the good life, easily accessible from Camping Les Cigales for an authentic break with family or friends.
Things to do around the pond
The Etang de Thau offers a wide range of activities for all ages. Walkers can take advantage of the many paths along the lagoon, ideal for strolling or cycling. These routes link the various villages and offer remarkable views of the lagoon, oyster beds and surrounding hills.
Guided cruises are also organized from Marseillan or Mèze, allowing visitors to discover shellfish farming from the water and learn more about farming techniques. For those wishing to take their visit further, several museums are available, including the Musée de l’Étang de Thau in Bouzigues, which traces the history and know-how of the lagoon.
In summer, children can take part in educational workshops on aquatic fauna and seafaring occupations. Last but not least, a number of supervised beaches on the shores of the pond offer a peaceful setting, with calm, shallow waters ideal for young children. A pleasant alternative to the often busier beaches along the coast.
Prepare your trip to Etang de Thau
To best organize your visit to theEtang de Thau from Camping Les Cigales, allow 35 to 40 minutes for the car journey. It’s advisable to devote at least half a day to exploring the site, or even a whole day if you want to combine walking, wine-tasting and swimming. The main villages around the lake (Bouzigues, Mèze, Marseillan, Balaruc) have free or paid parking lots in convenient locations. In season, tourist offices provide maps of cycling and walking itineraries, as well as timetables for guided tours and cruises.
Remember to book in advance for oyster farm tastings, especially during the summer months. Camping Les Cigales can help you plan your outing by providing personalized advice, maps and even picnic baskets on request. To extend your experience in the Hérault region, take a look at our accommodation, services and activities sections.