Built on an ancient basalt volcano, Agde is known as the "Black Pearl of the Mediterranean" and was formerly called Agathé Tyché (meaning Good Fortune). Impossibly scenic, this stunning seaside commune in the southern French department of Hérault is positioned where the Canal du Midi, the Hérault river, and the Mediterranean Sea all meet. It is no surprise, therefore, that is was once an important trading post and is today a place full of intrigue and things to see and do. Those who book a vacation rental in Agde will find that all sorts of adventure awaits, from the fifteen centuries of history that is just waiting for you to dive in, to the impressive natural wonders of the area and all of the outdoor pursuits that stem from it. So, if you decide to holiday in France and visit this magic part of the world, here are the key things to see and do in the area...
1. Sail Down the Canal Du Midi
One of the key physical components of this area is the canal on which it was built. Positioned a few leagues upstream from the round lock of Agde (built to allow boats in from three sides at once and the last working round lock in France, dating back to the 17th century) at the Pont des Onglous on Thau Lake, the canal opens past two large stone piers. Here, you can hire a boat (or simply join a cruise from Agde if you don’t want to man your own vessel) and explore the canal. Along the way, you can take in the lush flora, the diverse fauna, the vineyards all along the banks, and various other surprises and wonders, while floating by, at your leisure. Pack some delicious things to eat and a great bottle of wine to make it even more magical – a perfect way to see the area in a relaxing manner and unwind on vacation in France!
2. Admire Ancient Wonders At The Greek Éphèbe Museum
This museum is home to Cap d'Agde's Greek Éphèbe, an ancient sculpture of unknown origins but dating to the time of Alexander the Great that was found on the riverbed of the Hérault near the cathedral in the 1960s. Potentially a portrait of Alexander himself, the sculpture was badly damaged when discovered and spent an extended period of restoration in the Louvre before being returned to Agde. Joined by an unparalleled collection of ancient bronze works pulled up from the ocean floor in France, other ancient objects found in the waters around the area, artefacts relating to maritime travel and exploits in the area throughout history, and a collection of prehistoric, medieval, and modern artefacts as well, this museum captures the 2,600 years of history of Agde.
3. Go For A Cycle Around The Volcanic Cliffs
A network of cycle paths is positioned in Agde and along the coast, allowing those who love to cycle a dreamy way to discover the Mont Saint-Loup and the famous volcanic cliffs of the area. Rent a bike, pack some water and snacks, and come explore this varied, lovely, and dramatic stretch of the coast of France!
4. Head To The Beach
With 11 spacious sandy beaches and some 14km of beach to enjoy, the so-called Black Pearl that is Agde is certainly an ideal destination for those who love to be by the sea. Swim, snorkel, dive, sail, surf, and more in the rich blue waters of the Mediterranean and enjoy activities like volleyball, strolling or jogging, tanning, and more on those sandy shores. For those who book a holiday rental in Agde, there is no shortage of beaches or seaside activities to enjoy!
5. Eat, Drink, And Be Merry
The freshest catches are brought in daily to make incredible local seafood specialities like the beloved salt water turbot. Pine nuts are used to make one of the area’s favourite desserts. Those vineyards glimpsed as you traversed the canal produce famous wines like Clairette du Languedoc and Grès de Montpellier. For those who love to eat well and who want to stock up on some excellent French wines, a villa in Agde is an invitation to savour some truly delicious delights.