The new “go-to” place in the south of France is Occitanie
Occitanie is the new “go-to” place in the south of France. When visitors have had their fill of Nice, the Côte d’Azur, and Provence, they find that the southernmost region of France, once known as Languedoc-Roussillon and Midi-Pyrénées, is pretty remarkable.
Let me introduce you to one of my “go-to” places in Occitanie: Sete.
Sete on a Sunday
Touring anywhere on an overcast Sunday may not sound like the most fun. But you’ll enjoy the day in Sete with Nancy McGee, the best guide in the Mediterranean town.
Exploring the Seaport City of Sète, France
Sète, often referred to as the “Venice of Languedoc,” is a hidden gem on the Mediterranean coast of France. This charming city, crisscrossed by canals, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Join me as I embark on an unforgettable Sète tour guided by the lovely Nancy.
A Sweet Start with Zezettes de Sète
Our adventure began with a delightful introduction to the local cuisine. Nancy treated us to the famous zezettes, a crisp cookie made with Muscat wine. These treats are a perfect way to start the day.
Discovering the Canals: Venice of Languedoc
As we walked through the city, the famous canals came into view, earning Sète its nickname, “Venice of Languedoc.” The waterways are lined with colorful boats, cafes, and shops. You also see elegant 19th-century townhouses. These grand facades often reflect Sète’s growth and prosperity during the 19th century. Each canal has its unique charm, making it easy to see why Sète is frequently compared to Venice. The “Gateway to the Mediterranean,” the Thau Lagoon, and the port of Sète are also closely linked to the Canal du Midi .
Savory Delights: Tielle de Sète
Our next stop was a local tielle shop, where we sampled Sète’s renowned octopus pie. The tielle, a savory pastry filled with a spicy octopus and tomato mixture, is a must-try for any seafood lover. Its flavor is a testament to the city’s maritime heritage.
A Visit to Les Halles de Sète: The Heart of the City Market
No visit to Sète is complete without exploring Les Halles de Sète, the bustling city market. On Sundays, the market is packed with vendors and customers, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Local producers proudly display fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and other culinary delights.
Fresh and Flavorful: The Best of Sète’s Food Scene
“Fresh” best describes the food in Sète. The city’s biggest food attraction is undoubtedly its oysters, harvested from the nearby bays and lagoons. The market is also filled with a variety of fish, including tuna from the Mediterranean, making it a seafood lover’s paradise. We couldn’t resist picking up basketfuls of unique food products as souvenirs, ensuring that our taste buds would remember Sète long after we left.
Taste Testing: A Culinary Adventure
Of course, we had to do our own taste tests. Sampling a bit of this, a taste of that, and plenty of local wine, we happily indulged in the flavors of Sète. The city’s diverse and delicious foods make it impossible for anyone who likes seafood to resist the many choices available.
Panoramic Views from Mont Saint Clair
After we had sampled Sete’s foods, we took a short ride to the top of Mont Saint Clair. This hill is the highest spot in Sète and offers breathtaking city and Mediterranean views. Even on a rainy day, the panoramic vista of Sète is simply awe-inspiring.
Historical Charm: Chapelle Notre Dame de la Salette
Atop Mont Saint Clair stands the Chapelle Notre Dame de la Salette, built on the ruins of a defensive fort in the 17th century. This historic chapel has been welcoming pilgrims each year on September 19 since 1898. Aside from the view, its peaceful atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit site for anyone exploring Sète.
An Unforgettable Experience
Our tour of Sete was nothing short of magic. Every moment was filled with surprises and delight, from the zezettes and tielle to the indoor market and panoramic views. Sète’s blend of history, culture, and cuisine makes it a destination more and more visitors to the south of France are discovering.
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