Gruissan- a wonderful seaside resort that comprises of a picturesque old town built in concentric circles round a Barberousse fort that dominated the entrance to the etangs-lagoons. Traditionally a fishing port and wine growing centre the old town is now surrounded by modern but not overpowering holiday accommodation. The French adore the 1300 stilted beach side wooden chalets made famous by Jacques Beineix's film "Betty Blue". Very popular because of its miles of fantastic golden sand and its marina with extensive water sports facilities Gruissan makes a perfect base for a family holiday.

Despite the ongoing development the old village maintains a truly lively spirit with an open-air market three mornings a week around the old fishing harbour. Oyster and Mussel farming is still a thriving business, as you will appreciate in the numerous sea food restaurants. An interesting hour or so is the "Fumeries Occitanes" where a wide range of salt and fresh water fish from tuna to swordfish and shark are salted and smoked. Although there are many caves and Domaines to visit in the countryside around Gruissan a particular favourite during July and August is the Gruissan Co-operative Winecellar, La Cave de Gruissan. They hold a reception every Monday evening on the picnic area alongside the cave. Starting at 18.30 where you can taste both their wines and a range of local produce- honey, olives, cheese- which is followed by a meal at 8 then a dance.

Gruissan is a kids paradise, the wide open beaches with their gentle slopes into the sea and their ever watchful lifeguards make a safe and fun playground. But should the beach fail to satisfy then look out for the Kid Station activities, from Circus skills, nature walks to tennis lessons and rock climbing, Gruissan is a truly well provided for resort with many facilities to give children a holiday of a life time and parents a much needed rest.

The countryside around Gruissan is dominated by the lagoons and the La Clape mountain. Perched on the side overlooking the old town is "Notre Dame des Auzils" chapel. There is a wonderful walk up to the chapel along a tree shaded path, on each side of the path there are remembrance plaques to locals lost at sea over the centuries- from Hong Kong to the Lebanon. A range of walks are well sign posted throughout the hills and provide inspiring views across the lagoons down to the Pyrenees. Accompanied walks and nature trails are also available.

Details of the full range of activities can be obtained from PROMAG, Société de Promotion et d'Animation de Gruissan, Boulevard Pech Maynaud, 11430 Gruissan, Tel 04 68 49 09 00.

Gruissan Info is a superb site with a wealth of information and fact and figures about Gruissan.
Blog of Didier Codorniou Mayor of Gruissan

Related Links
La Clape