Overlooking the Etang de Thau lagoon, Marseillan is a small port town, historic trade hub and beachside resort in southern France. It lies at the southern entrance of the Canal du Midi and centres around an atmospheric village that has remained largely unchanged since the 17th century.
Things to do in Marseillan
If you’re a fan of vermouth, make a point of visiting La Maison Noilly Prat, which was established in 1813 in Lyon and moved to Marseillan in the mid-19th century. Join a guided tour of its enormous cellar to learn about the history of the company and its “dodinage” (mixing) technique, then enjoy a tasting of the entire vermouth collection. It’s also possible to create your own vermouth, using your choice of herbs and spices.
Travelling with kids? Don’t miss a visit to the Parc d'Attraction Marseillan Plage, a nighttime amusement park with classic rides and a swimming pool. Also nearby is the Pirateland Mini Golf, an 18-hole course themed around buccaneers. Hamburgers, ice creams and drinks are available at the on-site kiosk.
Sprawling west of Marseillan Plage is the Natural Reserve Bagnas, a large tract of wetlands and lagoons that was protected in 1983. It provides habitat for nearly 250 different bird species, including flamingos, herons and birds of prey. Guided tours are occasionally offered to explore this sensitive natural environment, which also supports a diversity of Mediterranean flora.
Getting around Marseillan
Marseillan is around 30 minutes’ drive from Beziers and just under an hour from Montpellier. Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport is 45 minutes away and has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Trains connect to the Gare de Marseillan-Plage while buses travel to the centre of Marseillan. The historic core is compact enough to explore on foot.