Sete is a party city. There’s a celebration of some sort going on all summer. Sometimes two at a time. You could say: “Life’s a beach in Sete”
Right now, there’s a music festival in Sete that features famous DJs from around the world. There’s also the festival happening downtown with its parades and fair-like atmosphere. Lucky for me, English-speaking ex-pats celebrate the Fourth of July here. Nancy, my Airbnb hostess, invited me to a party to meet some of the members of the ex-pat club who have settled around this area from England, Scotland, Ireland, Australia, and the US.
Christina Rabaste, an American who has lived in France most of her adult life, hosted the party at her home in downtown Sete. The interesting, multi-level house is a combination of an art studio, indoor garden, patio, and home. The party was held on the first floor garden of Christina’s home, where some of her life-size “statues” were standing among the red, white, and blue decorations. Her studio was open for guests to visit, and dining tables with chairs were placed around the large room.
When I strolled into the studio, I fell in love with her whimsical paintings and sculptures. Not only was there a collection of her art on canvas, but she also painted her odd characters on wood and old chairs. Perhaps there’s a Michelangelo hiding deep down inside of me because I have a great affinity for artists. Maybe it’s because they express themselves so openly. They are fascinating people to know.
Life’s a Beach in Sete
When not partying, people in Sete hit the beach in droves. Outside the city, beyond the seawall and rocky shore, a long, wide beach stretches for miles along the Mediterranean. Closest to the city, the beach is mobbed with people who, mostly, are standing waist-deep in the water. Farther down the long road that heads out of town, the crowds thin out, and beach lovers go to the “mini-resorts” spaced every half-mile along the shoreline.
The mini-resorts are run by restaurant owners from Sete and surrounding areas who lease space on the beach during the summer. Each place has a dining service, beach chairs, umbrellas, etc. For a small fee (10 Euros), you can rent an umbrella and chair for the day. Food can be purchased and is prepared fresh in the beach-side kitchens and served at a table or on the beach.
I’m in love with this place!
Check out Nancy’s Absolutely Southern France for visits to Sete.
