The Étang de Thau is a lagoon of incomparable charm stretching over 19 km. From Marseillan to Sète, this inland sea conceals many treasures. It's an area of biodiversity that's prized by pink flamingos, a marine ecosystem that encourages shellfish farming, and a leisure resort.
Etang de Thau, the largest lagoon in the Occitanie region and offers a wide range of sites to discover from your campsite in the Etang de Thau. The hiking trails offer superb views and there are also cultural visits to be made in the neighbouring communes, which form what is known as the archipel de Thau.
The Crique de l'Angle : Bouzigues and Balaruc
To the east of the Étang de Thau lies the Crique de l'Angle, a stretch of water where pink flamingos and migratory birds nest in peace. This unspoilt area invites you to take a peaceful walk and observe nature...
The Crique de l'Angle is bordered by the historic town of Balaruc-le-Vieux. Its ancient city walls, monuments and narrow cobbled streets add a great deal of charm to this typical village. It is next to Balaruc-les-Bains, a spa resort that has been popular since ancient times and has a well-preserved heritage. At the end of the peninsula, the Jardin Antique Méditerranéen is not to be missed.
On the other side of the Crique de l'Angle, you'll find Bouzigues, the smallest commune bordering the lagoon. This fishing village has retained all its character and invites you to take a walk through its narrow streets and along the lagoon.
From Mèze to Marseillan
The Phocaean city of Mèze and the seaside resort of Marseillan can be reached in 20 minutes by car and just 45 minutes by bike. Thanks to the cycle paths, it's a great way to go from one of these two towns to the other, a mix of heritage and nature.
You can also enjoy magnificent views over the Etang de Thau on foot as you walk along the shores of the Conque. Here you'll find charming fishermen's cottages. oyster and mussel beds reign supreme on this side of the lagoon. If you're an enthusiastic amateur, Mourre Blanc is the best place to discover shellfish farming, the largest harbour in the Mediterranean.
For a cultural visit, don't miss the Musée villa gallo-romaine de Loupian. This exceptional archaeological site, on the doorstep of Mèze, is a must-see.
From Marseillan-Plage to Sète
Marseillan is a typical Occitan town, with a dynamic historic centre around its emblematic covered square. But it's also a friendly port and a well-known seaside resort. The Onglous lighthouse offers a superb spot from which to admire the lagoon from a new angle, whereas Marseillan-Plage turns its attention to the sea and water sports. Plage d'honneur or plage de Robinson: you'll find it hard to choose!
A one-hour cycle ride will take you to Sète, at the other end of the lagoon. The town of George Brassens reveals all its charm through its picturesque districts, beaches and salt marshes. Climb Mont Saint-Clair and enjoy the panoramic view over the Etang de Thau and the Mediterranean.
Where to stay on a campsite near Étang de Thau?
Located in Marseillan, in the Hérault department, La Créole campsite is the ideal place to stay if you want to discover all the communes of the Étang de Thau. Our seaside campsite offers fully-equipped accommodation, with comfortable mobile homes for two or families to rent. And if you prefer, shady pitches are available for your tents and motorhomes in the heart of a warm and welcoming campsite.
Just a stone's throw from the beach at Marseillan, our 3-star campsite offers a full range of services, a restaurant with sea views and activities for all the family. No need to look any further, you've found your campsite near the archipel the Thau!