Those who follow the Barefoot Blogger regularly know how much I love to visit Sete. It’s one of my favorite places to go for the beach, fabulous seafood, and “always on” fun. If you’re traveling from Barcelona to the South of France, Sete is less than 3 hours away by train.
Here are 7 reasons you really must go:
#1 Visit Sete for Great food
Sete has been one of France’s significant seaports for centuries. It is said that Louix XIV made Sete his personal sea gateway so that the treasures of the Orient and beyond could travel directly to Versailles. Italian fishermen helped establish the port as a prime supplier of tuna, sardines, and anchovies — among other sea delicacies. Oysters abound around Sete — especially in nearby Bouziques — rounding out a perfect assortment of the most delectable seafood.
#2 Visit Sete for History
Along with fishing and importing kingly goods, Sete became a prosperous town with stately homes and thriving businesses along the canal waterfront. Evidence of that prosperity can be seen still today, even though new trade routes and bigger seaports have largely impacted Sete’s economy. Tourism is bringing it back.
Beyond being a famous port, Sete is known for her favorite son, ย Georgeย Brassens, who is a composer, singer, and activist. In fact, there’s a museum in Sete dedicated to Brassens. It tells of his life and work that captivated me as much as learning about American icons Frank Sinatra or Elvis Presley.
#3 Visit Sete for Unique Natural Beauty
Canals that run throughout the townย
Sky-high, panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea
Clear blue sea
#4 Visit Sete White Sandy Beaches
Think the Cote d’Azur has the only beaches in the South of France? Try to beat this. Sete has beautiful beaches, blue skies, all-day beach clubs with seafood, and much more!
#5 Visit Sete for Summer Sports
Where else can you sit in a covered arena overlooking a sea canal, watching water jousting? Day and night?
#6 Visit Sete for Extravaganzas
Plan your holiday in Sete, especially around August, during the St. Louis Festival, and you’ll be amazed at the sights you’ll see.
#7 Visit Sete for Party Hearty
In summertime in Sete, there’s always a party going on!
So what’s holding you back? Stop by Sete in the South of France. You might be surprised who you’ll run into!
Want to see it all in Sete? Contact Nancy McGee of Absolutely Southern France for guided tours — especially her famous “walking gourmet” tour.
Here’s where to find year-round activities in Sete.ย
