PRESS KIT - Cap d'Agde

LE CAP D’AGDELA CITÉ D’AGDELE GRAU D’AGDELA TAMARISSIÈRE

www.capdagde.com

PRESSKIT

The Best MediterraneanOF

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Quel fond pour les deux enfants ?Plage ? Ville ? Autre ?

4 DESTINATIONS

SO NATURE

100 % LEISURE

THE CALL OF THE OPEN SEAS

ROOTS AND THE LOCAL REGION

CONTENTS

PRESS CONTACTLaurence RICHARDTel: +33 (0)4 67 01 03 84Mobile: +33 (0)6 12 70 69 68Fax: +33 (0)4 67 01 04 05 E-mail: [email protected]

www.capdagde.com

Office de Tourisme BP 544 - 34305 Le Cap d’Agde CedexTel: +33 (0)4 67 01 04 04 Fax: +33 (0)4 67 26 22 99E-mail: [email protected]

4 LE CAP D’AGDE • LA CITÉ D’AGDE • LE GRAU D’AGDE • LA TAMARISSIÈRE

4 DESTINATIONS

LE CAP D’AGDE 10 districts, 10 different atmospheres, and all the pleasures of the Mediterranean. Between the port and the beaches, Le Cap d’Agde offers several different holiday districts, whose architecture in the traditional colours of Languedoc villages blends harmoniously with the beauty of the natural environment.

LA TAMARISSIÈRESituated on the coast, opposite the Grau d’Agde, in the shade of a two-hundred-year-old pine forest, la Tamarissière is an oasis of peace and tranquillity in a preserved natural environment; the ideal place for holidays close to nature, right on the sea shore.

AGDE, THE GREEK CITYAs early as the 5th Century B.C., the Phocaeans and then the Greeks shaped the city of “Agathé Tyché” (Good Fortune). Over the centuries, thanks to maritime trade, Agde became a prosperous city, which today boasts 26 centuries of history and many archaeological treasures.

LE GRAU D’AGDEThe authentic charm of a traditional fishing village. Situated on the left bank of the River Hérault, this picturesque little village with a friendly family atmosphere has retained all the charm and colour of a traditional seaside resort; a bustling and authentic village.

Agde, a city of many facets. The city perimeter embraces the historic old town with 2,600 years of history and a remarkably rich architectural heritage, an internationally-renowned tourist resort and two traditional villages whose quality of life is the envy of all. These assets make Agde a truly unique city on the Mediterranean coast. It is a vibrant constellation of different areas: the historic centre of Agde, Le Cap d’Agde, Le Grau d’Agde, La Tamarissière.

300 DAYS OF SUN PER YEARIncluding 193 from March to October, with an average of 23 days in April, 24 in May, 26 in June, 29 in July, 26 in August and 24 in September. The temperatures are typically warm, with an average of 22°C in May and 25°C in September, and an average maximum of 29°C in July and August.

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4 DESTINATIONS

A VIBRANT CONSTELLATION OF DIFFERENT AREASTo preserve the quality of life and enable Agde to remain

the emblematic city that people cherish so deeply, the

City has developed an urban plan which respects the

area’s balance and promotes its heritage and natural

advantages.

The plan is based on two key priorities: promoting the

personality of each area while strengthening the overall

cohesion. As such, the qualities that form the identity of

each district are safeguarded and promoted, while

facilities and infrastructures are renovated and moder-

nised, to create uncluttered living areas where nature is

omnipresent and urbanisation controlled.

However, while the various districts must retain their

specific identity, they also need to be linked together to

develop overall community cohesion. This is the aim of

the green belt which is being created around the city.

This is also the objective sought through the major

facilities that have recently been built, or which are in

progress: multi-disciplinary healthcare centre, schools,

crèches, Court House and Legal Advice Centre, Water

Park, extension of the golf course from 18 to 27 holes,

etc.

All these various aspects are central to the plan, which

aims to preserve Agde’s high quality of life.

Agde (24,972 inhabitants as at 1st January 2013) is located at the crossroads of

major traffic routes between Lyon, Clermont-Ferrand, Toulouse and Barcelona.

Agde and its resorts are in a unique location in France, where freshwater meets sea water. The coat of arms of the city of Agde, first registered in 1697, combines the waves of the Mediterranean, the River Hérault and the Canal du Midi.


THE CALL OF THE OPEN SEAS

WATER, AN ENDLESS SOURCE OF PLEASURE CAST OFF AND ENJOY THE MANY WATER SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES ON OFFER Sailing and cruises, boat hire, excur-

sions on the sea, the river and around

the port, sailing courses, fishing, scuba

diving, rowing, canoeing, donuting,

fly-fish rafting, jet skiing, kite-surfing,

wind-surfing, para-sailing, water-

skiing, stand-up paddle-boarding,

wake-boarding, etc.

ACTIVITIES UNUSUALTHE UNDERWATER TRAIL It follows the cliffs through shallow

ravines created by ancient volcanic

activity. This 400m trail is signposted

and allows you to discover under-

water wildlife, flora and landscapes

either by snorkelling or walking up to

your waist in water; the depth ranges

from 0 to 5 metres.

This unique, educational trail gives

you the ideal opportunity to take

your own underwater photos.

THE “TOES IN THE WATER” MORNINGS AT THE AQUARIUM They are aimed at young children.

The aim is to introduce them to the

sea world through a close-up expe-

rience of marine life.

A VOLCANIC DIVING SITEScuba diving is one of the many acti-

vities proposed by specialist clubs,

of which five are members of the

Group of Professional Diving Schools

of Le Cap d’Agde (GEPPCA). Created

in 2002, the GEPPCA promotes eco-

logical diving aimed at protecting

the environment and making divers

aware of basic rules to safeguard the

sites.

There are some ten diving sites,

suitable for children or adults, begin-

ners or experienced divers. They

enable you to discover the marine

life and flora that is specific to Le

Cap d’Agde, at depths ranging from

5 to 25 metres. It really is the ideal

place for beginner divers. On other

sites, you have to go down 20 metres

to find the species that can be seen

at a depth of just 5 metres here.

7LE CAP D’AGDE • LA CITÉ D’AGDE • LE GRAU D’AGDE • LA TAMARISSIÈRE

A UNIQUE MARITIME HERITAGETHE “BRESCOU FORT”has been listed on the French sup-

plementary Historic Monuments

Inventory since 1981. It is situated on

the only volcanic island in the Gulf

of Lions, just 1,500 metres from the

coast. Originally built in 1586, then

destroyed on the order of Louis XIII,

it was rebuilt in 1680 based on plans

designed by Vauban. In the 18th

Century, it was used as a State prison

until 1851.

HIGH QUALITY NAUTICAL FACILITIESA MARINA of 4,100 berths divided between

three entities proposes a comprehen-

sive range of services: the port of Le

Cap d’Agde (3,100 berths), Port

Ambonne (300 berths), and the

banks of the River Hérault (700 berths).

THE NAUTICAL CENTRE It's the rallying point for lovers of the

sea and nautical activities: lessons,

rentals (in school holidays), club and

training.

A modern and varied fleet of boats

is available for nautical activities

for people of every level and age,

whether for individuals, groups, or

families. The centre has the “French

Sailing School” label and provides

intensive courses taught by a quali-

fied team. They manage all types of

courses, from introductory to

advanced lessons, individual lessons

or occupational training.

The Nautical Centre has the “South

of France Tourism” and “National

Tourism Quality” labels.

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Since 1987, the “Pavil-lon Bleu” (Blue flag) has been hoisted above the marina. This environmental label

guarantees the quality of the water. The port also has the “Ports Propres en Languedoc-Roussillon” (Clean Ports of Languedoc-Roussillon) label. It is also ISO 14001 certified, testifying to the port’s continuous improvement in environmental management, and ISO 9001 certi-fied, for quality management.

NAUTICAL HIGHLIGHTS*

Spring:• French Sailing Federation

Championship • Fun Explorers Objective Atlantis

(photo treasure hunt underwater)• French Jet skiing Championship • ‘Week-end Bleu” (Introduction

to various nautical activities)

Summer:• Sea Festival

• Illumination of Brescou Fort• Unidentified Floating Objects

World Championship

Autumn: • Autumn Nautical Fair• Festival of sound and images at sea

Throughout the year: • Regattas

* Selection

Le Cap d’Agde has the “FRANCE

STATION NAUTIQUE” (French

nautical resort) label, certifying the

quality and safety of the nautical

activities organised.


SO NATURE

14 KM OF BEACHES

11 supervised beaches stretch for 14 kilometres along

the coast (including 1 naturist beach). The advantage of

this long beach front is that there is always a beach near

the place you are staying, generally accessible on foot

using the specially laid-out footpaths.

The beaches offer many different settings: long and

wide at Richelieu, with black sand at the foot of the

volcanic cliff at the Grande Conque in Le Cap d’Agde,

bordered by the pine forest and near the nature reserve

site of Les Verdisses at La Tamarissière, or near the

centre of the village at Le Grau d’Agde.

In addition, the variety of beaches cater for everyone’s

tastes; some are just natural, some are specially laid out

(sun-loungers, leisure activities, refreshments, services).

In the middle of the coast’s white sand, the lava from the

volcano of Agde created one of the most beautiful basalt

beaches of the Mediterranean: the beach of the Grande

Conque. A wild site with steep cliffs, the perfect place to

enjoy the fresh air and invigorating effects of the seaside.

CURIOUS AND DEMANDING, PROTECT BIODIVERSITY The Bagnas National Nature Reserve, Saint-Loup Mountain, the Natura 2000 marine site and the underwater path, the aquarium, strolling across the vineyards or along the Canal du Midi or the Hérault River, soft transport paths... Nature suits your every wishes.

Protected by the “BEACH QUALITY PLAN” which

aims to safeguard the marine environment and

dunes, while enhancing user comfort, the beaches

are part of the region’s heritage. The City of Agde

makes significant investments for their preserva-

tion: construction of dykes, addition of sand, dune

protection, etc.


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THE CANAL DU MIDI AND THE ROUND LOCK OF AGDE

During the reign of Louis XIV, the age-

old dream of building a canal to link the

Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean

became a reality, thanks to the genius

and energy of Pierre-Paul Riquet

(1604 – 1680), the “salt tax collector”,

who devoted his life and fortune to

building the canal.

It took fifteen years (1666 to 1681) to

build the 240 kilometres of canal and

the 328 engineering structures.

The “Canal Royal du Languedoc”,

which became known as the Canal du

Midi after the French Revolution, was

inaugurated on 15 May 1681, a few mon-

ths after the death of Pierre-Paul

Riquet, who never saw his work com-

pleted.

The canal crosses 3 regions (Aquitaine,

Midi-Pyrénées and Languedoc-Rous-

sillon), 5 départements (Gironde, Lot-

et-Garonne, Haute-Garonne, Aude and

Hérault) and 70 municipalities. It goes

from Toulouse to the Thau Lake.

Since December 1996, it has been listed

among the 962 UNESCO World Heri-

tage Sites (38 of which are in France).

During the fifteen years it took to build

the Canal du Midi, Pierre-Paul Riquet

made Agde the last stage before the

Thau Lake and Sète by building a

unique engineering work: this is the

only round lock on the canal. This

technical and architectural feat was

built with basalt (volcanic rock). It links

three different levels and allows boats

to turn to take one of three possible

directions: to Toulouse, to Agde and

the sea, or to the Thau Lake via the

River Hérault. Just before the round

lock, the Port of Agde, which was made

by simply widening the Canal (12 toises

= 23.40 m), today welcomes many

leisure boats.

In the 17th Century, the “Hôtel de

l’Administration du Canal” (Canal

Administration Building) was built in

the port. The Canal engineer and the

toll collector worked here.

The ENGINEERING WORKS ON THE LIBRON RIVER in

Vias, where the Canal du Midi meets the Libron, which

runs into the Mediterranean. The river would frequently

burst its banks, which caused many problems for naviga-

ting on the Canal du Midi. The mobile aqueduct bridge is

a unique piece of engineering due to its construction

techniques and hydraulic characteristics. It was built in

1858 by the engineer Urbain Maguès. An impressive sys-

tem of mobile aqueducts allows the water from the river

to pass over the canal during flooding without interrup-

ting navigation. The series of sluice gates, the toothed

crown gears and chains blend into a wild landscape.

CLOSE BY


SAINT-LOUP MOUNTAIN (113 M)

is an ancient volcano located at the extreme south of the

Auvergne volcano range. Today, it is a protected nature

site with many indigenous Mediterranean plants. The

mountain offers a unique view over the coast and

hinterland and still has vestiges attesting to its strategic

position: an ancient semaphore station and the “Tour des

Anglais” (17th Century) to warn against raids by pirates or

the English.

The volcano last erupted 750,000 years ago, giving the

City of Agde its iridescent grey colour and its basalt

monuments. It shaped the coast, creating small islands,

bays and cliffs.

THE BAGNAS NATIONAL NATURE RESERVE

Listed as a reserve since 1983, the park covers 560 hec-

tares and is made up of the “Grand” and “Petit” Bagnas

lakes. What makes the Reserve particularly interesting

is its rich birdlife. Almost 250 species of migratory or

nesting birds have been observed in the park. Guided

tours are organised to allow visitors to observe the

Reserve’s wildlife, without disturbing it.

CYCLE AND WALKING PATHS FOR GETTING AROUND IN AN ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY WAY

The network of cycle and walking paths that criss-cross

the municipality is a great tourist and environmental

asset. It is extended each year to meet the expectations

of both holiday-makers and residents.

The “Cycle and walking path guide” maps out the 43

kilometres of paths already in operation, which link the

City of Agde, Le Cap d’Agde and Le Grau d’Agde.

The ultimate goal is to create a green belt which will

connect every part of the municipality with cycle and

footpaths.

The “Posidonians of Le Cap d’Agde” NATURA 2000 MARINE SITE

The Natura 2000 site covers 6,113 hectares

of sea. The area is home to many natural

riches, such as the Posidonian and the

Coralligenous, as well as important heritage sites:

Brescou Island, the rocky bed of the Grande Conque

and the «Roche Notre-Dame». The site also attracts

the majority of leisure boating, diving, and fishing

activities.

The “Natura 2000 Charter” ensures professionals,

residents and visitors adopt eco-responsible beha-

viour and respect the site’s fragile natural habitats and

the quality of the water. The Natura 2000 site is

managed in close collaboration with local users and

stakeholders.


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THE VAL D’HÉRAULT NATURE PARK AND ZOO IN SAINT-THIBÉRY

This ecological nature park covers 15 hectares. It is home to over 1,000 animals and

300 species, which are almost all endangered and protected. It has the largest

collection of birds in Europe, with species that are unique in France. The “Val d’Hérault

nature park” is also a “contact zoo”, which recreates natural habitats and plunges

visitors into ecosystems from around the world, in close contact with the animals.

The park organises daily educational workshops (up to 12 sessions a day in peak sea-

son), a treasure hunt and a show called the “Féerie des Oiseaux” (Bird Fairytale).

CLOSE BY

NORDIC WALKING

While the name of this activity

may sound rather strange in our

southern region, you will quickly

discover it is a fun, athletic acti-

vity that allows you to enjoy the

surrounding nature. Nordic walk-

ing involves walking with ski

sticks. While being a gentle acti-

vity, it makes you use 90% of

your body’s muscles. It combines

well-being and fun while enabling

you to discover the surrounding

nature in an environmentally-

friendly way.

Supervised by a qualified trainer,

it is an ideal and original way to

discover the beautiful views from

the pine forests of the Saint Loup

Mountain and Saint Martin Moun-

tain overlooking Le Cap d’Agde.

EXPERIENCE NATURE CLOSE UP

Take a cruise on the Canal du Midi,

follow a guided visit of the volcanic

landscape, discover the Bagnas Natio-

nal Nature Reserve on foot, by bike or

on horseback, follow the circuit of the

“Traversée de l’Archipel” (Trail across the

Archipelago) on foot, by bike or on roller-

skates... the hardest thing is choosing

what to do! And let’s not forget a host

of other leisure activities, such as golf,

the Aquarium, forest adventure trails,

visit to a bull-breeding farm, etc.


ROOTS AND THE LOCAL REGION

AGDE, THE GREEK CITYAgde is the culminating point of the Auvergne volcano range. Marco Polo nicknamed it the “black pearl of the Mediterranean” due to its unique geology: indeed, basalt (volcanic rock) is ever present.

2,600 YEARS OF HISTORY

Cretans, Egyptians, and Phoenicians

landed successively on the region’s

shores. In 580 B.C., Greeks from

Phocaea found haven on the shores

and baptised what was just a rocky

outcrop at the time: “Agathé Tyché”:

Good Fortune. They founded a tra-

ding post which prospered through

maritime trade.

Since that time, Agde has lived for

and thanks to the sea. Impressed by

the site’s geographic and maritime

environment, Richelieu decided to

create a large, central port in the

Gulf of Lions in the 17th Century. He

launched the construction of a dyke

that would go as far as Brescou Fort,

but the project was stopped at his

death in 1642, and today just 200

metres of the dyke remain.

The City of Agde is one

of the oldest cities in France

Built from the volcanic rock of the

Saint-Loup Mountain, the city’s

architectural harmony is unique in

the region. As you amble through the

maze of ancient streets, you discover

the city’s astonishing heritage and

southern charm.


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THINGS TO SEE AND DISCOVER

Tourist circuit around the old City of

Agde: town-houses from the 16th and

17th Centuries, typical old streets,

sculpted doorways; Renaissance

stairways; the “Maison du Cœur de

Ville”, the former Consulate and former

covered market; the Place de la Belle

Agathoise; statue of Terrisse the Priva-

teer; the Fountain of the Republic; the

Heritage Gallery on the “Ilot Molière”

(Molière Island), etc.

The ancient ramparts

When the Greeks founded Agde,

they built ramparts which surroun-

ded the city, going up the Prome-

nade. The remains of these ancient

ramparts near the River Hérault date

back to the 4th Century B.C. The

current ramparts were built in Medie-

val times and follow the line of the

ancient ramparts. Halfway up the

walls, there is an ancient crest with 4

waves which was placed there by

Protestants during the Wars of Reli-

gion. Behind the ramparts, there is

the box-shaped layout of the Greek

city (streets in rectangular blocks).

The Promenade

The Promenade is bordered by plane

trees which provide welcome shade,

making it the ideal place to relax and

meet on warm summer days. At each

end there is a fountain:

• the Fontaine de la République, ins-

talled in 1995 thanks to a public

fund-raising initiative. The statue is

a copy of the one made in 1909 and

removed in 1941, in order to be

melted down, since the govern-

ment of Vichy had launched a

campaign to recover non-ferrous

metals;

• The Fontaine de la Belle Agathoise,

made in Carrara marble, African

marble and basalt is an allegory of

the city, a symbol of the ancient

Agathé.

In the middle of the Promenade, the

bust of Claude Terrisse was made in

1874 in honour of the courageous

privateer. Born in 1598, he carried

out many missions as the king’s pri-

vateer under the reign of Louis XIII

and Louis XIV before being elected

Consul of Agde. When he died, he

left his fortune to the poor. Since

that time, he has been considered

as the city’s benefactor.


An underground ice-cellar

Located at the highest point of the

City of Agde, the Place de la Glacière

is named after an underground

ice-cellar built on the site in 1680,

inside the ramparts. This rare histori-

cal facility was designed to conserve

ice collected in winter (for domestic

use). It consists of a cylindrical well in

basalt, measuring 6.80 metres in

diameter and 8 metres in height.

Saint-Etienne Cathedral

The cathedral was built between

848 and 872 and fortified in 1173. It is

one of the most beautiful Roma-

nesque fortified churches in the

region. Its keep is 35 metres high and

the thickness of the walls ranges

from 2 to 3 metres. The crenellations

and the machicolation made the

fortress impregnable. The current

building sits on the ancient founda-

tions of a 5th Century Christian

church which was destroyed on the

orders of Charles Martel.

The Place de la Marine

and the statue of Amphitrite

The whole “Marine” district bears

witness to the maritime traditions of

Agde. In the past, the port was a

flourishing business centre. Today,

the only activities that remain are

fishing and naval construction. The

mooring rings and nets along the

basalt docks, the former depot and

the typical fisherman’s houses in the

Rue de la Poissonnerie remind us of

the city’s important seafaring past.

On the Place de la Marine looking out

over the waves, the statue of Amphi-

trite symbolises Agde’s maritime

vocation. The statue was originally in

Paris (on the Trocadero), and was

given to the city in 1936. The nume-

rous mini-shrines with statuettes of

the Virgin Mary dotted around the

district bear witness to the piety of

the fishermen and sailors.


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WATER-JOUSTING dates back to

antiquity. Egyptians, Greeks and

Romans all organised these events,

which were re-enactments of naval

battles. In the 17th Century, they

were organised on special occasions

and were major popular celebra-

tions, with music from trumpets,

drums and oboes, for example when

the Duke of Montmorency visited

the city.

The jousting is reminiscent of

knights’ tournaments in the Middle

Ages. Today, jousters, named knights

of the “tintaine” (the platform on

which they stand) still compete in

this somewhat strange battle on

their red and blue boats.

Water-jousting is a genuine local

institution. The highlight is the

Languedoc Trophy which takes

place on the first Sunday of every

August on the River Hérault, at the

foot of the cathedral. The best

jousters in the region take part in

the event.

The Château Laurens

and the Park of “Belle Isle”

This 12-hectare estate became an

island in the 17th Century, during the

construction of the Canal du Midi

which forms one of its boundaries,

along with the River Hérault and the

Canalet (small canal). In 1898, Emmanuel

Laurens, a rich man and avid traveller

from Agde, inherited the Domaine de

Belle Isle from his father. He decided

to build a “villa palace” on the estate

which would symbolise his travels.

Emmanuel Laurens loved the arts

and modernity. He built the castle in a

general neo-classical style (peristyle,

colonnade, balusters, terra ced roofs)

and added decorations from the Art

Nouveau movement. He even built an

auditorium in the form of a chapel for

his wife, the opera singer Louise Blot.

The Château is a listed historic monu-

ment and belongs to the city of Agde.

It is regularly maintained and restored.

The Arts and Crafts Centre

France boasts wide-ranging exper-

tise in the crafts sector and has

managed to preserve (and update)

traditional talents and trades, which

are sometimes the inspiration for

fashion and contemporary design.

The Agde Arts and Crafts centre

obtained the French “CITY OF

ART AND CRAFTS” label. The

designers who work in the city

are driven by excellence and

authenticity: women’s fashion

designers, musical instrument

makers, painters and sculptors.

The City organises permanent

exhibitions of their works, at the

“Galerie de la Perle Noire”, in

the heart of the old town (Ilot

Molière).


LE CAP D’AGDE, THE BEST OF THE MEDITERRANEAN

Over the years, Le Cap d’Agde became

a major asset in the regional economy.

Situated on the shores of the Medi-

terranean, Le Cap d’Agde is in an

ideal location, in the heart of a

region with a rich natural, historic

and cultural heritage: the département

of Hérault in Languedoc-Roussillon.

Only 45 years ago, Le Cap d’Agde was

just a wild piece of land, a rocky coast.

It was a beautiful window onto the sea

that the Greek city of Agde had peered

through for 2,600 years.

Since then, the Languedoc coast has

become a major international tourist

destination and Le Cap d’Agde has

obtained the French “Heritage of the

20th Century” label (for the Saint-

Martin port), which recognises the

remarkable works and the architectural

heritage of the last century.

LA TAMARISSIÈRE, IN THE SHADE OF THE PINES

The forest was planted during the

18th Century (progressively to begin

with, then more intensively in 1782

thanks to an engineer called Gro-

gnard), as part of works to prevent

sand amassing on the bed and the

mouth of the River Hérault. The pines

and tamarisks were planted to

consolidate the ground. Along with

the nearby piers, they would stop

sand bars forming in the channel.

In 1894, the forest covered 48 hec-

tares. When the forest was created it

was reserved for the use of a hunting

society for a long time. It was only

opened to the public in 1905 and is

now listed as a “historic site”*.

(* Extract from the book “Agde d’hier à aujourd’hui” by Christian Camps)

Today, La Tamarissière is an authentic

village nestling among the pines

between the port and the beach. It is

the ideal place for holidays close to

nature or for walking under the shade of

the majestic pines until the sea shore.

Here, further down the coast, you will

sea the two lighthouses that mark the

mouth of the River Hérault.

La Tamarissière, a two-hundred year old pine forest on the edge of

the sea, draws its name from a plantation of tamarisk and pines.

Between the 60s and 70s, the city rediscovered its Mediterranean vocation thanks to the major

urban planning project aimed at developing tourism in Languedoc-Roussillon, launched through

the “Mission Racine” (French inter-ministerial urban planning commission).

THE SECOND WORLD WAR MUSEUM

There are still the remains of some 30 blockhouses along the beach of La Tamarissière. One was a former infirmary measuring 200m2. This has been transformed into a Museum devoted to the Second World War by the “Agde Histoire 39-45” Association, using the same materials as those used for the original construction.


LE GRAU D’AGDE, A TRADITIONAL FISHING VILLAGE

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Le Grau d’Agde is a fishing village with

a fresh fish market. It developed at

the start of the 20th Century and has

managed to retain all its charm and

traditions; it still has a thriving fishing

business. Here, you can get every-

where on foot in just a few minutes:

beach, fishing port, shops, daily market,

entertainment, etc.

To get here, you simply follow the River Hérault for a few

kilometres. The journey is extremely pleasant and can be made

easily on foot or by bike, along the cycle trail.

NOTRE DAME-DU-GRAU

The sanctuary of Notre Dame-du-

Grau was founded in Antiquity,

and devoted to the Virgin Mary in

the 5th or 6th Century. It consists

of two religious monuments:

• Firstly, the Notre Dame-du-Grau

church, the original Priory founded

by Saint-Sever then used by the

Benedictines, and finally the

church of Capucine convent built

by the Constable of Montmorency,

the Governor of Languedoc.

• Not far from the main church, in

the shade of the maritime pines,

there is also the modest Cha-

pelle de l’Agenouillade (Chapel

of Kneeling). The Constable was

also responsible for building this

edifice on the site where (as

legend has it) the Virgin Mary

knelt down to stop the waves

from the sea coming inland. She

supposedly left the mark of her

knees in the rock.


The Ephèbe Museum, in Le Cap d’Agde has three distinct departments, with exceptional collections of archaeo-logical objects found in the local waters over the last 40 years by amateur divers or experienced archaeologists:

The bronze department groups together the most beautiful collec-tion of works of art and everyday objects found on site, including the famous Ephèbe statue (2,300 years old). The statue was heavily inspired by portraits of Alexander the Great, and gave its name to the museum. The collection also includes the Roman statues of Cupid and the Child, dated between the 1st Century B.C and the 1st Century A.D.

The ancient navigation department presents an impressive series of Greco-Roman amphorae, as well as many items of naval architecture and arms. These reflect the importance of maritime trade and the transport of works of art in Antiquity, like an exceptionally well-preserved mosaic panel representing Apollo and the satyr Marsyas, dating back to the end of the 1st Century B.C. or start of the 1st Century A.D.

The modern department presents collections of tableware from medie-val times, the 19th Century and modern times, as well as naval artil-lery from royal ships (17th and 18th Centuries), including a unique collec-tion of 16 cannons in cast iron and in bronze, discovered off the coast of Le Cap d’Agde and bearing the monogram of Louis XIII.

The “Musée Agathois Jules Baudou” in Agde Situated in the heart of the old town. This Arts and Crafts Museum is located in a Renaissance building in which Monsignor Fouquet installed a Cha-rity organisation in the 17th Century. It presents the history of life in Agde from Antiquity to modern days, through the city’s folklore and its wine-producing and maritime activities. Even today, during major traditional festivals, women in the city wear the “sarret” (a fine-lace head dress) and the costume of “Belle Agathoise”. The Museum’s many display cases and paintings present traditional women’s lace and cashmere head-dresses, their dresses and accesso-ries, with reconstitutions of daily life in the 19th and 20th Centuries. The museum houses a wide variety of art, with paintings by the Azéma brothers, talented artists from Agde, as well as many items of furniture and earthenware. You can also disco-ver the reconstitution of the phar-macy of the “Hôpital d’Agde” as well as the room devoted to the Bishop’s palace, or the magnificent Art Nouveau furniture from the Château Laurens.

the “SCÉNOVISION Molière” in Pézenas

A unique insight into Moliere’s life!

An exceptional space devoted to

one of France’s most famous wri-

ters in the magnificent 17th Century

“Hôtel de Peyrat” in Pézenas. This

visit is organised around 5 rooms,

taking you on a journey using the

latest 3D technologies and sound

effects. It is an original and fun

way to discover the fascinating life

of Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, aka

Molière.

CLOSE BY

MUSEUMS, 26 CENTURIES OF HISTORY


Learn about the city’s history

Agde and its resorts through guided tours with

the city’s official guide, as well as lectures and

exhibitions. Gain a unique insight into the city’s rich

cultural, architectural and natural heritage.

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HIGHLIGHTS*

Spring/Summer:• The Architecture Month• Vinocap, the largest open-air wine

fair in the South of France• “La Nuit des Musées” (Museum Night)• Agde through time (a historical

re-enactment)• “Journées du Terroir” (Local

Produce Days)• French National Archaeology Days

• Languedoc water-jousting tournaments

• Agde in sound and light

Autumn: • European heritage Days• New Wine Festival

Winter: • Patrimoni, Occitan Christmas

Throughout the year: • Exhibitions

* S

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DISCOVER THE MEDITERRANEAN PART OF THE HERAULTIn the fertile plain of the River Hérault, the region of “Hérault Méditerranée” (Mediter-ranean Hérault)* looks over the sea to the south with the Hérault hinterland to the north. As such, the area has a wide variety of landscapes and natural environments.

The towns of the area have a remarkable

architectural heritage and have pre-

served many buildings from their

past: castles, churches, abbeys, villas,

etc. You can discover their history

thanks to different guided tours.

The little villages of the Languedoc

were often built in the Middle Ages,

based on circular plans around a

castle; indeed these villages are

commonly referred to as “circulade”.

The narrow streets are full of archi-

tectural treasures set against the

backdrop of the area’s typical fea-

tures: “capitelles” (small dry-stone

cabins), dry-stone walls, lime kilns,

windmills, gardens, botanic trails, etc.

“WINES TO DISCOVER IN CAP D’AGDE – PÉZENAS”

A destination with a vibrant history

and a great tradition of wine-pro-

duction. The “Hérault Méditerranée”

region invites you to discover its

vineyards, cellars, wine-growing

estates... and of course its wines!

To ensure you miss nothing on the

roads that wind between the sea, the

vines and the hills, a “wine-tourism”

map has been created which lists all

the addresses and production sites

of the 85 estates and cooperative

wine cellars, which are open to the

public.

It also includes a selection of

remarkable heritage sites.

The map is available in tourist offices;

you can also download the map.

Virtual visit... before the actual visit

To learn about the wines and plan

your route through the vineyards

before setting off, there are special

interactive terminals in the Tourist

Offices in Agde, Le Cap d’Agde and

Pézenas. They offer virtual visits and

information about the area and the

heritage of the 19 villages and towns

of the “Hérault Méditerranée” region.

This virtual guide is a great way to

prepare your visits to the local

vineyards... or to simply relive pre-

vious visits thanks to the beautiful

pictures.

The “Vins en découvertes”

(Wines to discover) area

Located in the town centre of Monta-

gnac, this area traces the history of

wine in the region back to the first

vines planted by the Greeks around

2,600 years ago. Six historical sec-

tions explain the development of pro-

duction techniques, the layout and

organisation of the estates, the crises

and periods of expansion as well as

the architecture. The history is

explained through a series of fun,

educational tools: an optical theatre,

a digital book, and a large interactive

map of the wine cellars and estates.

The area is open to the public, and

free of charge.

* 19 towns and villages: Adissan, Agde, Aumes, Bessan, Castelnau-de-Guers, Caux, Cazouls-d’Hérault, Florensac, Lézignan-la-Cèbe, Montagnac, Nézignan-L’Evêque, Nizas, Pézenas, Pinet, Pomérols, Portiragnes, Saint-Pons-de-Mauchiens, Saint-Thibéry, Vias.


KNOW-HOW HANDED DOWN THROUGH THE AGES

Discover the local production

of specialities such as the “croustade

de Bessan” (puff pastry filled with

puréed fruit), the sweet onion of

Lézignan-la-Cèbe, figs and nougat

from Nézignan-l’Evêque, the hum-

bug and the “sweet and savoury

pastry” of Pézenas, the Pomérols

chocolates made with regional pro-

duce, as well as honey, fruit jellies,

cured meats, melons, bell-peppers, etc.

Gastronomy

The tastes of the Mediterranean in

your plate: “baudroie en bourride”

(monkfish in fish and garlic sauce);

“seiche à la rouille” (cuttlefish in a

lightly spiced tomato sauce); turbot

poached in “brine”, like grandmo-

thers used to make; mussels and

clams, stuffed or with a “marinière”

sauce; fish soup; dessert with pine

kernels, and many other delicious

dishes that our chefs serve with the

best wines of the region.

Traditional festivals

local festivals with traditional “ani-

mal totems” (emblems of villages),

flower-covered floats, “brasucades”

(open air grills), water-jousting tour-

naments, fishermen’s festival, new

wine festival, the “Saint Christ” pro-

cession, the “jeu de balle au tambou-

rin” (sort of tennis with five players

on each team), etc.

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The “VINEYARD WALKS”

The guided “vineyard walks” allow you to learn about the area’s history

and wines, and discover the countryside. These pedestrian circuits are

between 3 and 5 kilometres long, over flat terrain, making them accessible

for everyone. They take in places of particular historic or natural interest,

and finish off with a visit to a wine cellar or estate, with a tasting session

with wines produced by the “Caves Henri de Richemer”.

The ARTS AND CRAFTS CENTRE

in Pézenas The centre particularly

showcases the expertise and

trades that developed during

the 1960s, driven by master

c ra f t sm e n , a n d “ M e i l l e u r s

ouvriers de France” (Best wor-

kers in France). Pézenas has a

particularly wide variety of

specialist trades in the fields of

heritage restoration and deco-

rative arts: ceramics, cabinet-

making, carpet-making, pottery,

mosaics and earthenware.

The “MOULIN DU MONT RAMUS”

in Bessan

Located at the foot of an ancient

volcano (Ramus Mountain) in Bessan,

the mill produces 12 varieties of olives,

including the Lucques, the “flagship”

variety of the South of France,

acknowledged as one of the best

olives in the world by many French

gastronomic chefs, and the “Picho-

line” and the “Aglandau”.

The estate covers 30 hectares and

has 12,500 olive trees. Part of the

olive production is processed,

primarily into oil, but also into other

products: “tapenade” (olive paste),

“anchoïades” (olive and anchovy

paste), preserves, cosmetics (soaps,

shower gels, etc.). The mill is open

for visits. The tour includes an exhi-

bition entitled the "World of the

olive tree" and rounds off with a tas-

ting session of different products,

which you can purchase in the shop.

CLOSE BY


AQUALAND AND CAPTAIN’ JAKOare 2 water parks with a host of fun

and spectacular attractions. Aqua-

land is a 4-hectare park with over

20 attractions, including the two

highest water slides in France.

Captain Jako is a park for children up

to 12 years old.

ARCHIPEL, THE CITY OF WATEROpen throughout the year, the Archi-

pel swimming pool and spa has

something for everyone: swimming

pool, play pool, fitness and well-

being centre with spa.

The building covers 6,000m2 and is

surrounded by 4,000m2 of outdoor

wooden decks. This modern com-

plex has state-of-the-art facilities.

The original architecture looks like a

beetle, with modular wings on each

side of the central block. The wings

can be opened and closed over the

pools, depending on the weather.

THE AQUARIUM reproduces marine environments,

with Mediterranean and tropical fish,

coral, sharks and various aspects of

coastal marine biology and ecosys-

tems. A visit to the Aquarium is part

of the “Matinées pieds dans l’eau”

(Toes in the water mornings) excur-

sions. Download the free MP3 audio-

guide. Marine shop.

THE INTERNATIONAL TENNIS CENTRE

has 24 outdoor courts, including

6 clay courts and 4 synthetic grass

courts, 8 indoor courts (of which

2 are clay), a mini-tennis area for

children as well as squash, badmin-

ton and beach tennis courts (with

lessons). The centre is situated in

beautiful green Mediterranean sur-

roundings. Swimming pool, shop,

club house and salad bar.

THE INTERNATIONAL GOLF COURSEDesigned by Ronald Fream, one of

the greatest golf architects in the

world, and extended by Alain Prat,

this is one of the most popular clubs

in the South of France, with a 27 hole

course (there are only 48 such

courses in France): 3 combinations

for rounds of 18 holes in a 115-hectare

preserved natural environment.

Driving range with 36 stalls, putting

green and training bunker, short-

game area, club house, bar, restau-

rant and pro-shop.

AN AMAZING OPEN-AIR PLAYGROUND WITH ACTIVITIES FOR EVERYONEDo you want to try something new or test your limits? In terms of leisure activities and sports you are genuinely spoilt for choice.

100 % LEISURE, DAY OR NIGHT


DINOPARK It proposes an educational “discovery

trail” on the theme of Pre-history

and the dinosaur age, with an expla-

nation of the Big Bang and the evolu-

tion of man. The park has 26 stage

settings with 45 automated models.

AGD’AVENTUREA tree-top adventure trail park in the

middle of 1.2 hectares of nature. It

offers 2.5 hour sessions of thrills,

broken down into 160 workshops

and 10 trails, of increasing difficulty.

Accessible from 4 years old.

THE GÉANT MINI-GOLF It's consists of 2 courses with 18 holes

in a 5,000 m2 landscaped park with

shade and spray machines (for keep-

ing cool).

MORE SPORTS AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES Sports activities on the beaches,

games areas , ar t workshops ,

horse-riding, vineyard walks, basket-

ball, library/media-library, pool/bil-

liards, bowling, bridge, casino,

cinema, discotheques, excursions,

Segway, carting/motorbikes/quad-

bikes/buggies, laser-ball/paint-ball,

Luna Park, horse and bull farms,

merry-go-rounds, Nordic walking,

mini-port, museums, exercise trails,

theme parks, pétanque/bowls,

miniature train, pedal-cars, games

rooms, sports halls, skate park, shoo-

t ing , a rchery, cycl ing/moun-

tain-biking, and more.

THE “ILE DES LOISIRS” (LEISURE ISLAND) The Ile des Loisirs is devoted to fun

and parties, day and night. There is

only one rule: have fun. The area

groups together discotheques, res-

taurants and bars, a concert hall,

Luna Park, Casino, Dinopark, Dino-

land-Aquadino, the Géant mini-golf,

rental of nautical equipment, etc.

The Barrière Casino proposes every

kind of gambling game, all year

round: 175 one-armed bandits, from 1

centime to 2 euros, French and

English roulette, blackjack. A restau-

rant and a concert/show room, the

“Purple Lounge”, designed to create

a warm, intimate atmosphere where

the artists are close to the audience.

AREAS DEVOTED TO RELAXATION, WELL-BEING AND BEAUTYOpen throughout the year, a number

of special ist centres propose

spa-therapy, steam baths, saunas,

jacuzzi, swimming pools, and so on.

They also offer a comprehensive

range of beauty treatments.

100

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TACTIVITIES FOR CHILDRENFrench “Famille Plus” label

Agde has the French national label for

holiday destinations that cater specifically

for children and their parents, through

specific activities, entertainment and services.

There is a host of services specially designed for child-

ren. There is no shortage of ideas to ensure your kids

enjoy an unforgettable holiday. As part of this initiative,

the “Family Guide” lists 57 establishments that cater for

children. It is available on request at the Tourist Office.


AUDIO-GUIDED TOURSWith your smartphone, set off to discover our region.

Between land and sea

Excursions in the wake of fishermen and sailors.

100% nature

Pure air and breathtaking beauty.

Agde, a historic city

Retrace the city's history through the monuments and

heritage sites.

On the volcano

The views are truly breathtaking...

Le Cap d’Agde, city trip

“A Capital Resort”: a 20th Century saga.

The commentaries are available in French and in English.

HIGHLIGHTS*

Spring:• Cultural season• Cap d’Agde International Golf Grand Prix• Easter: week-end “Famille Plus”• Comedy Festival• Tarot Festival (cards)• Raid de l’Archipel• Cap Salsa Festival• “Pentecôtaucap” (Whitsuntide foot race)• “Hérault” Cinema and TV Festival

Summer:• "Lire et Bouger à la Plage" (Initiative promoting

reading and sports activities on the beach)• Summer events on the Hérault• "Fête de la Musique" (French National Music Festival)• "Fête du Pointu" (Sea snail Festival)• Jazz night• Fireworks display• Brescoudos Bike Week• VW Beetle Meeting• “Grande Braderie” (Store Clear-out Sales)• Golf Pro-Am tournament of the city of Agde and

the Casino

Autumn: • Cultural season• Cap d’Agde Motor Festival• Capvettada (Corvette escort ship)• Les Belles du Cap (collector cars meeting)• National and International Chess Tournaments

• National Tennis Cup

Winter: • Cultural season• Noël-sur-Mer (Christmas at Sea)• Congress of Father Christmases in France on two wheels• Last swim of the year

* Selection

D612

DirectionClermont-Ferrand

DirectionLyon

DirectionToulouse

Ca na l d u

Midi

Paris

LE CAP D’AGDE

FRANCE

PEFC/10-31-1605

Héraultle Languedoc

Nou

veau

Mon

de DDB

Toul

ouse

BY ROAD• A9 motorway, “Agde” exit n°34 via road numbers D612 and D612A• A75 motorway, to Clermont-Ferrand via road numbers D617, D612A, D13

and N9• D612 to Béziers or Sète

Driver info: Tel. 0 800 100 200 - www.bison-fute.equipement.gouv.fr

BY RAILSNCF railway station - AgdeInformation - reservations: Phone: 36 35 - www.voyages-sncf.com

• Several direct TGV services daily, all year round: Paris-Agde/Agde-Paris and Lille-Agde/Agde-Lille.

• Many links with northern Europe: England (TGV Eurostar), Benelux (TGV Thalys and direct trains), Germany and Switzerland.Service for car/sleeper trains (Narbonne).

BY AIR Béziers - Cap d’Agde Airport (15 km) Phone: 04 67 809 909 - Fax 04 67 809 910www.beziers.aeroport.fr - www.bezierscapdagde.com • Direct low-cost fl ights within Europe: Paris-Beauvais, Brême, Bristol,

Düsseldorf-Weeze, Edimbourg, Londres-Luton, Manchester, Oslo-Rygge, Stockholm-Skavsta.

Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport (70 km)Phone: 04 67 20 85 00 - www.montpellier.aeroport.fr• Direct fl ights to France: Paris Roissy and Orly, Ajaccio, Lille, Lyon, Nantes,

Strasbourg.• Direct fl ights to Europe/International : Alger, Bâle-Mulhouse-Fribourg,

Birmingham, Bruxelles, Casablanca, Copenhague, Fès, Francfort, Leeds, Londres, Munich, Nador, Oran, Rome, Rotterdam, Tanger.

Laurence RICHARDTel: +33 (0)4 67 01 03 84Mobile: +33 (0)6 12 70 69 68Fax: +33 (0)4 67 01 04 05 E-mail: [email protected]

www.capdagde.com

Office de Tourisme BP 544 - 34305 Le Cap d’Agde CedexTel: +33 (0)4 67 01 04 04 Fax: +33 (0)4 67 26 22 99E-mail: [email protected]

Photographic rightsThe communication and use (reproduction-representation, dissemination) of photographs are subject to the provisions of the Act of 1 July 1992 no. 92-597 relating to the French Intellectual Property Code and to the different codes of practice.The Tourist Office disseminates photographic works, manages the rights of reproduction and representation corresponding to these works, of which it is the holder by virtue of assignment and proxy of the authors that it represents, to ensure and defend their interests in relation to their works.Accordingly, the photographic material for which the Tourist Office is depositary may only be used under certain conditions covered by a prior agreement between the photographer and the Tourist Office.

Photos : N. Chorier, H. Comte, J.C. Meauxsoone, P. Ramond, J. Sierpinski, Musée de l’Ephèbe, E. Jouve, Ville d’Agde, O. Meynard, Dinopark, Scénovision Molière, Pixel-Fotolia, L. Catanzano, Iché, Macao Zoo Val Hérault, LU, Balnéocap. Illustrations Charlie Adam. Imprimerie Lahournère-Toulouse. Décembre 2014.

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