KITESURFING SPOT by guide des spots 2015

Kitesurfing

Spot Languedoc-Roussillon

guide

Klr

2015

Kitesurfing

Spot Guide L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n - 2 0 1 5 Kitesurfing: an icon of a winning sector strategy Since a few years, the Montpellier Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been encouraging the emergence of new sectors and creation of business groups. This structure building strategy is at the heart of the territory project proposed to stakeholders, brought together by the CCI Montpellier. Born on our local beaches here in Palavas and La Grande Motte between 1994 and 1996, kitesurfing really had a unique development and was, since its creation, exported to beaches around the world. Our region shines on the international scene thanks to its champions but also thanks to innovating local businesses, which are synonym of excellence all around the world. Kiteboarding is now part of a booming industry with two strong epicenters in France, around Montpellier and Leucate. The CCI of Montpellier is proud to have

been a believer of the creation of a dedicated sector, even before its birth. Its success, which was going to lead to many others, was made possible by the mobilization of all concerned collectivities and the Regional CCI. Today, we have to optimize this sector. We want to build a solid base to promote coherent growth, accompany professionals in the kitesurf sector to go from small local business to a measured industrialization, structure the discipline on our coastline while communicating on the quality of what our region has to offer. Our territory has now to turn towards the sea, an underexploited source of wealth and employment. On a more global angle, kitesurfing has to expand its exemplary nature. Once the talents and live forces recognized, the creation of new sectors has to become a priority to place the nautical sector in the heart of a new and powerful economy, to which the CCI of Montpellier is working fervently. André DELJARRY President of the CCI of Montpellier Vice-President of the CCIR Languedoc-Roussillon

Together, we are the birthplace and the future of kitesurfing! With 215 km of coastline and optimal winds, the region of Languedoc-Roussillon offers an amazing potential in terms of wind sports. Our territory is the birthplace of kiteboarding in the world. It is now a staple location in the kite sector with its shops, schools, manufacturers, specialized media and associations. This remarkable community comes to enrich our flourishing regional nautical sector which already counts 1 790 businesses and 6 600 jobs, with high-end establishments and schools, like the lycées de la mer of Canet-en-Roussillon and Sète and the Institut Nautique de Méditerranée. Here, the Region works to keep the Mediterranean lively year round, giving a strong support to events like the Mondial du Vent in Leucate, the Défi Wind in Gruissan or the Festi-Kite in Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone. With over 15 000 kiteboarders in the region of Languedoc-Roussillon, kitesurfing is a driving force in the development of our maritime economy. The Parlement de la Mer now manages the whole maritime community to fill the needs of the hands-on men and women as well as integrate fully the Mediterranean in our region. This is why the Region supports the edition of this Kitesurfing spot guide, for all the local riders and tourists who come to discover our destination, the South of France. We can all be proud, because this Guide is a first in France. Damien ALARY President of the Languedoc-Roussillon Region

Become a member of the “Parlement de la mer”

now

There is a true historical, technical and human knowledge in our region with all the shops, schools, professionals and manufacturers of the Languedoc-Roussillon! This is the reason why we decided to regroup about our common passion and create KLR (Kitesurf in Languedoc Roussillon) .

Open this guide and come discover the passionate professionals, a region where you can ride year round, spots with their own specificity, and communities where you can, aside from riding, discover a history, regional products and the man and women in it! Welcome to Languedoc-Roussillon! Florian Masoni President KLR, Moana Shop

w w w . l a r e g i o n . f r

PARLEMENT DE LA MER

S’UNIR POUR LA MÉDITERRANÉE, C’EST PRENDRE EN MAIN LA CROISSANCE BLEUE DE NOTRE RÉGION. Adhérez au Parlement de la mer et rejoignez la communauté maritime du Languedoc-Roussillon.

P.2 Spot Guide

- Mars 2015 - Direction de la communication Région Languedoc-Roussillon Photo : Jondreville/Fish-Eye

Languedoc-Roussillon, kitesurf land If kitesurfing was born The Languedoc-Roussillon is also the biggest gathein our region, it is first ring in the world of board and kite makers as well as because of our 215 km champions, with labeled zones and the biggest interof beaches, our perfect national events… but we are also a sporty region, coastline and the great close to Nature. You are in the heart of the World winds blowing. kitesurf epicenter!

Kitesurfing

Spot Guide L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n - 2 0 1 5

A spot for everyone! Our riding spots formations supported by the Creps and the FFVL. offer an amazing diversity when it Our land is the land of high-level athletes, welcoming the comes to riding first ever Pole France Kitesurf, a training ground for the styles and ways to elite of kiteboarding in ideal conditions. This structure enjoy kiteboarding. is managed by the League of Free-Fly in Languedoc From the lagoons to Roussillon (Ligue de vol libre du Languedoc Roussillon). the open sea, from the beaches to the barrier beaches, Our land is the land of wind and kite, on land or on everyone can find conditions to their liking, according to water, for our youth, for disabled people, for all the “locals” who have a new reason to turn towards the their level, experience and what they enjoy. sea and watch. That’s what makes our territory so rich. Our land is the land of discovery of kiteboarding, both for beginners and tourist, welcomed by over 40 structures In the region of Languedoc-Roussillon, there are kite spots for all and for all tastes. It’s our responsibility to affiliated to the Federation de Vol Libre. preserve this natural wealth by riding responsibly and Our land if the land of sport event, with its recurring with respect. international and national kite events, which participate greatly to making the touristic season much longer. Yves Gilles, Our land is the land of sport employment, in the board and wind sport sector, which is truly starting to show President of the in the statistics, and now offering many professional Ligue de Vol Libre du Languedoc Roussillon

Did you know?

p6/ Riding Spots map p8/ Safety and beach etiquette p10/ Weather p14/ 66 Canet Pont des Basses p16/ 66 Canet zone Sud p18/ 66 Barcares 3 Colonnes p20/ 66 Barcares parc des Dosses p22/ 11 Port Leucate p24/ 11 Leucate La Franqui Plage des coussoules p26/ 11 La Palme - étang p28/ 11 Gruissan p30/ 11 Saint Pierre la Mer Plage p34/ 34 Agde la Tamarissière p36/ 34 Sète 3 Digues p38/ 34 Sète le Pont Levis p40/ 34 Villeneuve-Lès-Maguelone p42/ 34 Carnon Petit Travers p44/ 34 La Grande Motte Grand Travers p46/ 34 La Grande Motte Port p50/ 30 Le Grau-du-Roi le Boucanet p52/ 30 Port Camargue Plage-Nord p54/ 30 Port Camargue Plage-Sud

Cover Photo: Robin Christol Rider: Charlotte Rolando. Below Rider: Jules Chollet.

Other Sports p57/ Wakeboard p58/ Surf / Sup p59/ Windsurf / Snowkite

KITESURFING IN THE LANGUEDOC ROUSSILLON IS:

15 000

980

120

Riders • Amongst them 2000 with an FFVL License Economic players • Rretailers, schools, manufacturers, media, event organizers, sport professionals

Jobs • Direct employment of the economic players + indirect jobs linked to tourism World Champions • Incl. All kiteboarding disciplines

The region picked by the FFVL to establish their National Excellence Kitesurf Center in Leucate, welcoming the training camps for all French teams in kiteboarding (freestyle, race, speed). P.4 Spot Guide

EDITION Stance Kiteboarding attitude 10 Passage Nina Ricci 34090 Montpellier PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Hervé André-Benoit PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Joseph VILLEFLAYOUX joseph@stanceplanet.com EDITOR IN CHIEF Clémentine BONZOM clem@stanceplanet.com

EXECUTIVE PRODUCTION César VANDAMME cesar@stanceplanet.com ARTISTIC DIRECTION ”JWEL” Orsatti Cyril bmxup@mac.com PHOTOGRAPHERS Romain Jean, Laurent Uroz, André Diepoix, Jean Bellondrade, Olivier Blondel, Gonthier Goulven, Manu Morel, Robin Christol. THANK YOU TO Christophe Tavlaridis (Office de

Tourisme de Leucate), Arnaud Lacauste (école de kite ebkite), Eric Wyss et Yves Gilles (FFVL), Hervé Jacquet (ville de fleury), Valerie Salles (Mondial du vent), Ville de La Grande Motte, Florian Masoni, Jacques Freydrich (Takoon), Marc Montgaillard, Seb Garat, Benjamin Dupont, Valentin Garat, Arnaud Pitman, MUC Aviron, ville de Leucate, Mondial du vent. COPYRIGHT Tous droits réservés. Les articles publiés engagent la seule responsabilité de leurs auteurs.

Spot Guide P.5

Kitesurfing

Spot Guide L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n - 2 0 1 5 1

Canet Pont des Basses

Snowkite

Canet Zone Sud

16 Bonnecombe

Barcarès 3 colonnes

17 Les Angles

Barcarès Parc des Dosses

Port Leucate

Agde la Tamarissière 10 Sète 3 Digues 11

Lozère

Sète le Pont Levis 12 Villeneuve-Lès-Maguelone 13 Carnon Petit Travers 14

18 Porté-Puymorens

La Grande Motte Grand Travers 15 La Grande Motte port 16

6 Leucate Les Coussoules

Le Grau-du-roi 17

7 Etang la Palme

Port Camargue Plage Nord 18

8 Gruissan

Herault

Saint Pierre la Mer plage

Gard

Aude

14 15 16 17 18 19

4 3

Pyrénées-Orientales 1

P.6 Spot Guide

rin

6 5

M i

M a

an e nt

al st r

12 11

Tram o

Port Camargue Plage Sud 19

Official kitesurfing zones as set by the Federation Française de Vol Libre

Spot Guide P.7

Kitesurfing

Spot Guide L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n - 2 0 1 5

Get information about the riding conditions and their evolution Get information about the local weather forecast and its evolution, and adapt your riding and gear choice according to this information. Do not ride if the kite is hard to control on land. Ride with a wind direction that will allow you to come back to your starting point or on an area of the beach where a landing point was planned.

Safety

Pratiquez accompagnés Ride with a friend. It is recommended to ride with a person who can, in the eventuality of an incident, go find help but also help launch and land your kite safely. Respect the rigging, launching and landing areas. Keep a safe downwind distance between you and any person or object, which will vary depending on the weather conditions and your line length. Secure down all the kites on the ground, to avoid any undesired launch. It is preferable to detach your lines when you are not using your kite. Respect the other beach goers and users. Respect the riding and swimming areas. Kite within two nautical miles of an accessible coastline.

©Robin Christol

Let’s not forget that kitesurfing can be a dangerous sport, especially when not taking the elements into consideration or when being reckless. Here’s a non-exhaustive list safety rules and recommendations for your safety and the one of others:

Buy gear that is adapted to your competences. Don’t overestimate yourself. Choose your kite size according to your riding level, your weight and weather conditions. Adapt your safety equipment. A quick release system is mandatory. Wearing a helmet and a safety vest is recommended. A helmet is required if using a board leash.

Kitesurfing within a 300 m zone should be done with caution and in all case at a speed under 5 knots, unless of a derogation given by the Maritime Prefecture. Kitesurfing is forbidden within swimming area boundaries and most generally in any other zone dedicated to another activity. Analyze the site before rigging, launching and riding. Ask the local riders or organization about any rules specific to an area. Respect the right of way and other navigation rules. Respect the public

It is recommended to wear a wetsuit. Make sure you can control and master your kite on land before going on the water. Double check all your gear before launching (appropriate rigging, lines properly installed, no knots or fraying in the lines). Always test your quick release system on land before launching your kite. Always connect your kite safety leash before launching. Make sure you have the appropriate amount of space downwind before launching Never attach your board leash before launching the kite. Make sure you have a public liability insurance that covers kitesurfing and with sufficient coverage for personal physical accident risk (without third party liability).

The FFVL technique and safety commission built a national reference guide: “kitesurf, safety and rescue at sea” (in French). It has for mission to normalize and reference safety matters in kitesurfing. You can download it on the following link: http://kite.ffvl.fr/node/2799

Good Behavior Rules - Right of Way rules A kitesurfer on a port tack has to give priority to the other, which means the starboard tack rider has the right of way. Any kitesurfer catching up on another one has to give priority and get away. When two kitesurfers are on the same tack, the priority goes to the person downwind. When two riders cross paths, the downwind rider brings his kite low and the up wind rider brings his kite up, to avoid tangling. Keep a safe space between you and anything or anyone downwind of you. Respect the space of others, on and off the water. Do not jump without making sure you have sufficient space for landing safely. Do not clutter the launching and landing area. Be efficient to get on and off the water to give other riders space to launch and land. When wave riding, the kitesurfer on a wave has the right of way.

P.8 Spot Guide

Spot Guide P.9

Kitesurfing

Spot Guide L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n - 2 0 1 5 Weather Corner

Tram o

M i

the littoral, the flux coming from the sea gets in place to complete the local cycle. The intensity of the wind varies according to the sun and the temperature difference between the land and the sea. Be careful not to miss the “last shuttle” and think about coming back on land before the wind dies in the afternoon! Real time wind observations

M a

What makes the wind?

In the Northern hemisphere, the fluxes are diverted during their trajectory because of the earth’s rotation. It’s the Coriolis force. The air gets further from the anticyclone, clockwise and fills the depression zone counterclockwise. The Tramontane and Mistral periods are due to a high pressure on the “near Atlantic” with a depression on the Mediterranean Sea (Gênes Gulf).

Get connected. A few different websites offer to visualize the wind live, like Wins Up, WindGuru and one last free one, Wisuki. If you are passionate about the weather and want to know more, go take a look at Meteociel.fr or InfoClimat.fr (in French) and why not install a weather station connected to the web and share your wind data? Marc Montgaillard Hydrologik Ingénierie The FISE weather alerte.meteo@gmail.com

©Robin Christol

The important regional winds are mostly due to the circulation of air masses between the anticyclones (High Pressure) and depressions (low pressure). The wind flows from the high-pressure zones towards the low-pressure zones. Its force and strength will be proportional to the difference in pressure, and modulated by the relief, which can accentuate its effects.

an e nt

al s tr

We differentiate the winds according to their direction and the weather conditions generating them. They are illustrated on a wind rose. The two principal ones are the Tramontane and the Mistral, even though the latter looses a lot of its power at the Rhone Rivermouth. The Mistral is oriented more North East and you can start feeling its influence around Montpellier. The windiest area, thanks to the Tramontane, is the Audois and Catalan littoral. The shape of the direction diagram illustrates the transition between the Gard, where the Mistral is still dominating from the North, Montpellier, where it turns more North East, the the Aude and the P.O. where the Tramontane imposes its North West power.

rin

The different winds in Languedoc Roussillon

Thermal Breeze The thermal breeze is a location specific wind generated by the difference of temperature between the sea and the coastland. At night, the land cools down quicker than the sea and the cold air slides towards the sea (land breeze). In the morning hours, this flux stops then switches around due to the quicker warming of the land. The hot air climbs above

P.10 Spot Guide

Spot Guide P.11

Kitesurfing

Spot Guide L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n - 2 0 1 5

UNDERSTANDING the guide

Depuis 4 ans, Languedoc Roussillon Sport Emploi Tourisme (LRSET) accompagne la structuration et la professionnalisation de la filière du sport, des loisirs et du tourisme sportif en région.

Dominant Winds

Public showers

Camping

Elle conduit régulièrement des missions d’étude, de diagnostic ou encore de pré audit dans le cadre de la démarche Qualité Sud de France (filière APN).

Secondary winds

Depuis Janvier 2014, l’association porte également le dispositif DLA en région. Pour tous renseignements : (mail) contact@lrset.org, (site web) www.lrset.org 04 99 54 97 83

CCI MONTPELLIER

Free Parking

Camper Van /RV parking

Level 1: beginners. Pleasure and vacation First Aid Station

Level 3: Advanced Sport

communication CCI 10/2013

Agir

La CCI accompagne et favorise tous les projets

Faire avancer toutes les envies d’entreprendre

Required riding level

Level 2: Average First rides

pour le développement économique du territoire

Symboles

L’association a accompagné la création de 62 structures pour 120 emplois.

www.montpellier.cci.fr

Wind orientation

Partenaire privilégié du Conseil Régional et de la DRJSCS, LRSET est situé à la Maison Régionale des Sports.

En bref, LR SET est un dispositif : D’information, de conseils & d’appui aux projets D’accompagnement à la création d’entreprises De formation D’études, d’ingénieries, de diagnostics.

Snack / Restaurant

Level 4: Experts Early stages of extreme sport Level 5: Pros Full Extreme Sport

Public washrooms

Departmental color-coding Pyrénées-Orientales (66)

Aude (11)

Hérault (34)

Gard (30)

Spot Guide P.13

SPOT

Canet Pont des Basses

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Pyrénées-Orientales (66)

Canet en Roussillon is one of the spots in the Languedoc Roussillon region that takes the most advantage of thermal winds. During the summer months, as soon as the difference in temperature between the land and the sea is important enough, a Southerly wind starts to blow and increases in strength as the day goes through. It can even gain in strength with the help of a South East wind and can then reach the 25-30 knots. The water is generally choppy, and a small wind swell can pick up, creating nice kickers or small playful waves. When the wind if offshore (coming from the North West), it is extremely strong and gusty and it is hence not advised to ride without a safety boat. A kite zone is determined during the busiest months of the summer. If you want to ride in the area this summer, Canet is a go-to!

Extra points: A bird watching trail, the aquarium, the toy, car and boat museums, and the Europa Olympic Training Center (Olympic pool)

A word from a champ: Thibaut Razeyre: “ The Pont des Basses is THE spot in the Eastern Pyrenees region. It’s a kite area managed by the Canet Kite Club and is mostly for good riders. This spot works better with South East winds (thermal or storm driven). The wind comes in side-on. The thermal is pretty strong here (between 15 and 25 knots) with some small kickers, about 1m, 1m50, perfect for a little starboard/ right hand session! The breakwater gives some structure to the water and allows the waves to peel on a few meters.

W E B C A M

©André DIEPOIX

QR code generated on http://qrcode.littleidiot.be

Another Champion Benjamin Dupont: “This spot works really well with the South East Wind, coming from the sea. The wind gets in side-on, starboard and builds nice little waves that can get up to 1m50 or 2m, when the wind is really strong. There is a nice right forming just beside the breakwater, breaking in 2 sections, which allows riding 3 or 4 rollers in a row on the good days. In the summer, the thermal comes in nicely between 15h and 18h, and blows around 15-20 knots, sometimes even more. The area is filled with tourists during the summer months, so watch out for swimmers in the kite zone…” Getting there

On the highway, take Exit 41 (Perpignan Centre/Canet/Barcares or Perpignan-North/Salses/Le Barcarès). When you get to Canet, go towards St Cyprien. When you will have gone past the camping on your right, you will be on a long straight line with the sea on one side and the ponds on the other, which is Route D81A. The Pont des Basses kite zone is between the Canet Zone and Saint Cyprien, just before the roundabout.

P.14 Spot Guide

Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction South, South East (South East) Riding level

Office du tourisme de Canet en Roussillon 04 68 86 72 00 / www.ot-canet.fr

Wind Stats Month

(Tramontane)

©windfinder jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.15

SPOT

Canet Zone Sud

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Pyrénées-Orientales (66)

Just a few meters away from the Pont des Basses is Canet Zone Sud. This spot takes advantage of the same conditions than Pont des Basses, which are a strong thermal wind in the summer months, strengthened by the East winds and some heavy, gusty Tramontane in the winter months. Once the Tramontane winds are in place, this spot isn’t good for kiting anymore, since both the wind and the current go off-shore. But in the summer months and just like any good thermal wind spot, the wind is on-shore, slightly side, with choppy waters and sometimes with a little wind swell. A breakwater, located on the right hand side of the spot, allows cleaner waves to form, which is ideal for using them as kickers. A kite zone is set for the busier summer months. If you want to ride in the area this summer, Canet should be on your list!

Extra points: A bird watching trail, the aquarium, the toy, car and boat museums, and the Europa Olympic Training Center (Olympic pool) FFVL Club: Canet Kite Club

Event: The Wake Air Contest: Organisé par la ville de Canet en Roussillon, le Wake Air Contest sa Organized by the city of Canet en Roussillon, the Wake Air contest has been a yearly gathering for the last few seasons. The original concept is to make teams of 2 riders: one kiteboarder, one wakeboarder. The kiters battle in a duel, performing wakestyle tricks thanks to the lift of their kite or using a kicker. The wakeboarders battle on features installed in the port just for the event. Each competitor brings points to their team. The best team wins the title! Website: www.wakeaircontest.com

Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction

A word from a champ: Thibaut Razeyre: “ The Canet Zone Sud spot is perfect for

beginners. It is on a piece of land owned by the city of Canet en Roussillon but managed by Saint Cyp Gliss 66. The conditions are similar to the Pont des Basses spot (there are only a few hundred meters between the two spots). They both work only with on-shore winds, since the spots are in the sea. When the wind is off shore, riders go more towards the ponds in Barcares or Leucate for a safer ride.

Getting there:

P.16 Spot Guide

South, South East (South East) Riding level

Office du tourisme de Canet en Roussillon 04 68 86 72 00 / www.ot-canet.fr

Wind Stats Month

(Tramontane)

©windfinder jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.17

SPOT

Barcarès 3 Colonnes

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Pyrénées-Orientales (66)

Originally a windsurf spot, the spot of 3 Colonnes has now been taken over by kiteboarders. When the wind comes from the sea (southerlies), some nice waves form and allow the wave riders to come get some turns on nice faces. But when the Tramontane takes over, the water becomes flat and riding becomes tricky, since the wind blows off-shore; Slalom and Speed riders still come to enjoy the spot.

Extra Points: Museum of the Man of Tautavel, Salses fortress, Cathare Country Castle, Roman Abbayes.

©Olivier Blondel

©Andre DIEPOIX

FFVL Club : SliderPark

Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction

A word from a champ:

Clem Bonzom : The advantage of riding at 3 Colonnes is when the South wind comes in the forecast, you can be sure that this place is going to be windy! It’s more of a place to play with your surfboard than for training in freestyle, but it’s nice to switch things up once in a while!”

Getting there:

On the A9 highway, take exit 40 (Leucate), and then take the D627 then the D83, towards Barcares. Once in the city, head toward the port and park in the parking lot South of the port, just beside the breakwater.

P.18 Spot Guide

Office du tourisme de Port-Barcarès 04 68 86 16 56 / www.vacancesportbarcares.fr

Wind Stats Month

South East (waves) Riding level (South East) (Tramontane)

©windfinder jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.19

SPOT

Barcarès Parc des Dosses

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Pyrénées-Orientales (66)

Just behind Leucate, there is a big zone of ponds in some of which kiteboarding is allowed. The Parc des Dosses, on the Salses-Leucate pond in Barcarès is one of them. This spot is located just beside the Cable Park. You can park your car just beside the water, at about 100m from the spot. You can rig your gear on the small piece of land (a bit rough with its grass as shells). If the wind comes from the North (Tramontane), you ride the spot onshore, which creates a slight chop, getting bigger with stronger winds. But with Southerly winds, it blows offshore which brings gusty winds pushing you toward the center of the pond.

Extra Points: Museum of the Man of Tautavel, Salses fortress, Cathare Country Castle, Roman Abbayes.

©André DIELPOIX

A word from a champ: Benjamin Dupont : “The Parc des Dosses is a spot where I go ride on a regular basis. Wind is straight onshore and not as gusty as in Canet but still a bit gusty. The launching zone is about 200m by 30m and not really sandy: it’s more like small rocks and pebbles with a touch of smelly seaweed… yum!! In the water, it’s the same when you’re close to shore, but with sharp shells as well! You hence need to plan to wear booties, especially for beginners. You can only touch the bottom for the first 30m max. Watch out for the breakwater on the left and for boats taking the channel between the breakwaters. It’s a good starting zone to go ride at Birds’ Island (Ile aux Oiseaux). Below that zone, there is another little pond that works in off-shore winds, but it is unfortunately “forbidden to kitesurfers”, officially anyways…”

Event The Slider Party: In the last few years, this spot of Barcares got the reputation of becoming the home of kite contests (Slider Party) and wakeboard contests (Wake & Beach). The flat, shallow water is perfect to install wakeboard features. FFVL Club : Slider Park

Amenities Best wind direction

On the A9 highway, take exit 40 (Leucate), and then take the D627 then the D83, towards Barcarès. Once at Barcarès, take exit 15 on the D 783 and follow the directions for the “Stade de Glisse” and “Parc des Dosses”. At the end of the avenue, there is a parking lot located just a few meters away from the spot.

P.20 Spot Guide

North, North West Riding level

Office du tourisme de Port-Barcarès 04 68 86 16 56 / www.vacancesportbarcares.fr

Wind Stats Month

Getting there:

Wind direction

©windfinder jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.21

SPOT

Port Leucate

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Aude (11)

Leucate is a very famous spot: the Mondial du Vent event has made it its home for the last 20 years and has been welcoming one of the most important stops on the Pro Freestyle tour. The competition takes place on the La Franqui beach, with the two riding zones at the Plage des Coussoules and at Port Leucate Spot d’Aqualand. This spot is one of the windiest on the coast. The Tramontane is the dominant wind and it can get up to 40-50 knots. This type of wind can become dangerous since it blows offshore from the coast and can be quite gusty. In this case, it’s absolutely NOT recommended for beginners, if there is no safety boat on the water. In the summer, or during certain times throughout the year, the wind can come more from the South East and be hence more On-Shore (or Side-On) and a wind swell can pick up. The big advantage of Leucate is to have a ton of wind: 300 days a year, says the legend!

Extra Points: The Leucate Castle and its amazing view; the Cliff and Cape Leucate; Shellfish and Oyster tasting and selling at the Mas des Ostreiculteurs de Leucate; The Maison de l’Étang, which is a great source of information about environment preservation awareness, especially for boardsports lovers… FFVL Club : Kitesurf Leucate

Amenities

Wind direction

©Jean Belondrade

Best wind direction

P.22 Spot Guide

South East

Office de Tourisme de Leucate 04 68 40 91 31 / www.tourisme-leucate.fr

Getting there:

On the A9 Highway, take exit 40 towards Port Leucate. Follow the D627 going along the Salses-Leucate pond; go past Leucate Plage and the Villages Naturistes until you pass the big Pont de la Corrège bridge, making the entrance of Port Leucate. DO NOT take the first exit, but take the one indicating “Port Leucate – Cap de Front – Pinède des Loisirs”. You will then be just beside the beach and you can park on one of the designated parking areas. The spot is right in front of Aqualand.

Wind Stats Month

Riding level

(South East) (Tramontane)

©windfinder jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.23

SPOT

Leucate Les Coussoules

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Aude (11)

The Coussoles spot is located in La Franqui in the commune of Leucate, and it is the most well known spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding in the area. It’s in La Franqui that the FFVL decided to locate their unique Centre National d’Excellence Kitesurf which is a gathering place for all the French teams in the sport, on top of welcoming all the young up and coming riders in a sport-study program. This center of excellence is the bearer of a double project – a sport project and a school and professional insertion project for athletes. The Tramontane blows there on a great part of the year (the wind stats are amongst the 3 most important in Europe) and can sometimes be very strong. In that case, if there is no safety boat at sea, the spot is not recommended to beginners since the current and the wind go off-shore. Many kitesurfing zones are set up to give an easy access to the water, even through summer. The southerly winds are most favorable to learning and practice, since they are steadier and not as strong as the Tramontane and their orientation brings you back towards the beach. The beach is quite big.

Event The Mondial du Vent: For the last 20 years, the Mondial du Vent has been gathering the best kitesurf and windsurf athletes. With the years, it became a staple event and the biggest stars in these disciplines. Since 2007, the Mondial du Vent has been hosting the only French stop of the kitesurf freestyle world championship, the PKRA (now VKWC). The Mondial du Vent takes place each year ofvery a week in April, on the famous La Franqui spot. Website: www.mondialduvent.fr Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction

A word from a champ: Charlotte Consorti: “La Franqui is THE ultimate flat water spot! It is perfect for speed riding because the wind is strong. It’s an amazing feeling to go along the shore for kilometers at full speed! In the summer, there is a kite safety zone, thanks to the KSL association, which means you can practice freestyle without fearing of ending up off-shore.”

Wind Stats Month

Getting there

On highway A9, take exit 40 towards La Franqui and follow the indications for La Franqui. Once in La Franqui, follow the indications for Les Coussoules then Parking Plage. Parking is free year-round for vehicles less than 2m. There is a paying area for RVs and campers.

P.24 Spot Guide

North Ouest, South East Riding level (South East)

Office de Tourisme de Leucate 04 68 40 91 31 / www.tourisme-leucate.fr

(Tramontane)

©windfinder jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.25

SPOT

La Palme

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Aude (11)

©Unikite

Located east of Leucate, la Palme is a small beach resort right on the water, on the side of a pond perfect for kiting and windsurfing. The local schools go there to give lessons: the dominant wind being the Tramontane, the spot on the seaside is fully offshore. There is a small beach all the way up the pond where you can rig your gear. The shallowness of the pond allows walking upwind for a few meters before starting to ride, if the wind is on shore (Tramontane). The Tramontane winds come in pretty gusty. The only advantage of this spot is that you can always get back to shore, not matter the wind direction. The down side is that it is very busy, having a lot of beginners and schools. When the South East winds come in, the pond becomes like a magical lagoon, off-shore and flat, which will make all the freestylers very happy.

Extra Points:

©Robin Christol

The St Pancrase Chapel; the Anciens Salins; the Lavoir; the “Désiré PECH” Square; Saint Jean Church.

Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction

A word from a champ: Olivier Rouxel: “La Palme can be an amazing spot depending on the wind direction. I rarely go there when the Tramontane is blowing because there are so many schools and beginners and that the wind is a bit gusty (avoid this spot with straight North or straight South winds). But when the wind is coming from the South East, it’s one of the best freestyle spots in the world!

Wind Stats Month

Getting There

Take highway A9, exit 39 for Port la Nouvelle / Sigean. Follow la Palme then once in La Palme, follow indication for Port la Nouvelle. 500m after the village of La Palme, turn right on the trail. Park on the right hand side along the pond. Parking is forbidden past the sign.

P.26 Spot Guide

North Ouest, South East Riding level

Office du tourisme de La Palme 04 68 48 56 88 / www.lapalme-tourisme.com ©windfinder jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.27

SPOT

Gruissan

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Aude (11)

A word from a champ: Geoffrey Mascarell: “On my “home spot”, Gruissan, as soon as they call for a bit of tram’ winds you can be sure it’s going to be stronger than predicted. You although need to have a solid riding level in kiting to have fun on this spot since it’s an off-shore spot, without safety measures, with some super flat water. It’s perfect for freestyle, slalom, speed… you can do any type of riding except for waves, of course! It’s also one of the rare wild beaches you can still access by car, all the way to the water. Be mindful of this beautiful environment please, because it is pure happiness! Have fun!

©Benoit ROUX

Thanks to its super flat ladscape, Gruissan is one of the spots in the area where the Tramontane is the most regular. It blows a good part of the year, not to say 300 days a year. But it is a spot that you need to work for, since you need to take a pretty torn down road to get there, especially if it has been raining a lot. Before getting to the sea, you drive by a small pond, the Grazel, where kite schools give lessons. You need to keep going on the road then cross the beach (with the sea on your left) to get to the place where the pond meets the sea. Here you are, on of the of the best spots in the country! When the Tramontane is blowing, it blows fully off-shore, which makes the water perfectly flat – a rare sight in the region. Watch out though if you are not 100% confident riding in off-shore conditions and never ride alone!.

Event: The Defi Kite is now a staple event in Gruissan. 140 racers, pros and amateurs, on

the starting line of a massive cross-wind race on over 80 km. To be able to count on the Tramontane winds, the event takes place in the spring or just after the summer on one of the windiest beaches in the area. Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/DefiKite

FFVL Club : Gruissan Kite Band

Amenities Best wind direction

From highway A9, take the exit for Narbonne-Plage and follow “Gruissan” and go towards the beaches, Camping de Gruissan. Keeping the camping on your right hand side, go on the road towards the beach. The spot is on the right hand side at the port’s mouth. It is one of the best spots in the Aude region.

P.28 Spot Guide

North, North West (at sea) Riding level

Office du tourisme 04 68 49 09 00 www.gruissan-mediterranee.com

Wind Stats Month

Getting there:

Wind direction

(on the pond)

©windfinder jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Dominant Wind direction

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

n/a

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

n/a

Av. Air temp (°C)

n/a

Spot Guide P.29

SPOT

Saint-Pierre-La-Mer

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Aude (11)

Located near Narbonne, the spot of Saint-Pierre-La-Mer takes full advantage of the strong Tramontane winds of the area. When it’s the case, this spot can be dangerous if the school/safety boat isn’t around because the Tramontane blows offshore. The water is although very nice and flat if the wind isn’t too strong. If the winds come from the South East or when the thermal blows, it becomes steady and makes some nice wind swell. The wind strength varies throughout the season (strong during the Tramontane days, light to moderate for the southerlies). In 2012, Saint-Pierre-La-Mer was the hosting place of the French Freestyle championships, in October. The windy conditions allowed completing the competition and naming the season’s champions.

A word from a champ: Valentin Garat: “Saint-Pierre-La-Mer is a spot that works in pretty much all wind directions (more or less…). The Tram’ is the dominant wind and often blows strong on this spot. When it blows, it’s off-shore, which means flat water at sea but the wind is often gusty. The South East is more rare, but when it decides to come in, the conditions can be really perfect in the beautiful Pisse Vache pond, just beside the sea with steady winds and flat water. It’s just like Brazil… well almost!”

Extra Points: The Massif de la Clape; the wine road in the wineries of the commune of Fleury; the public markets. FFVL Club : Sports Nautique Kite

Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction

Event: Junior European Cup: Each year in May takes place the Junior European Cup in Saint-Pierre-La-Mer. About 60 young riders from 9 to 19 years old, coming from all over Europe, come to battle for the title in their respective category. There is also a Boarder Cross event, open to all (pros and amateurs). Website: www.glisseetkite.com

Wind Stats Month

Getting there:

From Highway A9, take exit 36 for Vendres / Béziers Ouest, towards Serigan then towards Lespignan, then Fleury then Saint-Pierre-La-Mer. Once in Saint-Pierre, follow the indications for the sailing school. Park on the big parking lot in front of the school.

P.30 Spot Guide

North Ouest, South East (South East) Riding level

Office du tourisme Saint-Pierre-La-Mer 04 68 49 60 89 /www.communefleury.fr

(Tramontane)

©windfinder jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.31

SPOT

Agde la Tamarissière

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Hérault (34)

©Robin Christol

La Tamarissière is a spot on the sea where some big waves can shape up if the wind comes from the South. The spot also works well with westerly winds, where a breakwater makes the water super flat and the spot becomes perfect for freestyle. But when the wind turns North, it becomes offshore and very gusty.

Extra Points:

Nautical activities around the marina and nautical center; Amusement park for kids (Aqualand, Captain’Jako, Aquarium, Club Mickey, Dino Park, Luna Park), Museums, Golf, Casino, Naturist center.

A word from a local champ:

Paul Serin: “It’s a spot that can be awesome in South East winds, with very good conditions for wave riding: the lefts are awesome for a goofy footer like me! It’s a great spot, I love riding there when the conditions are good!”.

Getting there:

From highway A9, take exit 34 for Agde. Once in Agde, follow the Tamarissière beach (Tamarissière Road), the spot is located on the beach, just to the right of the Hérault Rivermouth. You can use the parking spots available beside the beach.

P.32 Spot Guide

Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction West, South East Riding level

Office du tourisme d’Agde 04 67 31 87 50 / www.capdagde.com

Wind Stats Month

©windfinder jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.33

SPOT

Sète les 3 Digues

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Hérault (34)

Even if the city of Sète is bordered by kilometers of ponds, one of the official spot is at 3 Digues (which means 3 dykes). It’s a spot on the sea with an authorized riding zone during the summer. It works with many different wind directions, mostly the ones coming from the sea (From South West to South East) and will make any rider looking for space and a nice place to cruise around happily. It may not be the freestylers’ favorite riding spot since the water is often choppy. The spot isn’t recommended for North winds since the gusty winds blows offshore. The spot of 3 Digues have a nice and big beach with plenty of space to rig, but keep an eye on swimmers and beach goers in the summer.

Extra Points: ©Robin Christol

No wind? Go ride at Kithau Wake Park in Marseillan; visit the famous city of Sètes (jousts, naval cemetery…); go oyster tasting in Bouzigues.

Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction South West to South East. Riding level

©Romain Jean

Office du tourisme de Sète www.ot-sete.fr / 04 99 04 71 71

Getting there:

From Highway A9, take exit 33 towards Sète. Keep going until you get to Sète and once in the city, go towards Marseillan on road D2 along the sea. Park on the big parking lot in front of the sea. The access is on beach 54.

P.34 Spot Guide

Wind Stats Month

©windfinder jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.35

SPOT

Sète le Pont Levis

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Hérault (34)

The Pont Levis Spot (meaning draw-bridge) is a staple riding spot in the area. Flat water, working in many wind directions, will allow you to ride in a safe environment. It is possible to ride in every wind direction, except for East winds (because of Mount St Clair). The North West wind are fully on-shore; you hence have to be careful because there are a lot of obstacles downwind and the wind is often pretty strong. In West winds, a nicely shaped wind swell forms, making a nice playground just past the sand bank called the “Toc”.

Extra Points: No wind? Go ride at Kithau Wake Park in Marseillan; visit the famous city of Sètes (jousts, naval cemetery…); go oyster tasting in Bouzigues.

The only downside is getting to the water: it will be your warm up session! You have to walk on the dyke to get to the Sèche and then rig on the sand bank forming the lagoon. The riding is in the Thau pond and it’s an easy spot to ride, thanks to the depth of the water and the on-shore winds.

©Robin Christol

Tip: take some booties with you: there are urchins in the summer! And beware: with the installation of a Heliport for the Sète Hospital on the Pont Levis activity area there is a zone forbidden to kitesurfing, please respect it (you will see the signs on the spot)

Amenities

Wind direction

©Romain Jean

Best wind direction

Getting there:

Getting out of Sète by the N112 towards “Marseillan Le Cap D’Agde”, when you get to the big roundabout beside a big building (the one before last before getting out of the city), follow indications for “Pont Levis ULM”, keep going straight for 60m, cross the train track then follow for “ULM”. You can park on the first parking spot on your right after the bridge.

P.36 Spot Guide

North, North West, North East, South West Riding level

Office du tourisme de Sète www.ot-sete.fr / 04 99 04 71 71

Wind Stats Month

©windfinder jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.37

SPOT

Villeneuve les Maguelone

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Hérault (34)

Maguelone is the spot on the coast where the water is the prettiest color: sometimes it looks like the Caribbean Sea (but it just LOOKS like it…). Aside from being a beautiful spot, Maguelone is quite nice since it works in many wind directions, both with the thermals and the tramontane winds. When the thermal blows, you will be riding side on starboard in pretty steady winds and waters that are a bit choppy. When the Tramontane blows, it is not safe to go ride alone or without a safety boat because the wind is offshore and the water goes very deep quickly. Maguelone is THE spot for riding long distance in the region, so if you want to make friends in this discipline, you know where to go!

©Takoon

Event: The Festikite: A true Mediterranean kitesurf festival, the FestiKite takes place over 4 days in Mai on the Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone spot. The best riders in the region mix up with amateurs for some racing and freestyle competitions during the whole weekend. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/festikite.maguelone

©André DIELPOIX

FFVL Club : Kitesurf and Windsurf Maguelone

Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction North West, South East, South West (wind South) Riding level

Office du tourisme de Villeneuve les Maguelonne 04 67 69 75 92 /www.villeneuvelesmaguelone.fr/

Getting There:

Once on the A9, take exit 30 for Montpellier-Sud/Lattes/Palavas-les-Flots. Take the D986, also called route de Palavas and keep going towards Palavas Les Flots. At the round-about when getting into Palavas, take a right onto D62e2 then go right again at the second roundabout on the Avenue de l’Évêché de Maguelone and go alongside the ponds. Go all the way to the end of the road and park on the big parking lot. Beware: you cannot access the spot in a car from May to September. There is a paying parking lot at the beginning of the road in front of the Prevost beach. Fee: 4€. There is a small train that will bring you to the spot. Another access to the spot is available, also on a small train, since the Pilou parking located in Villeneuve les Maguelone. More info at the Tourism Office.

P.38 Spot Guide

Wind Stats Month

(Tramontane)

©windfinder jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.39

SPOT

Carnon Petit Travers

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Hérault (34)

The Petit Travers is the practical spot. Located 15 minutes away from Montpellier and with its kite zone in the summer, it’s a bit like the staple spot in the summer months, where the thermal comes in nicely. It works on 2 directions: South East and South West. In both cases, the wind is On-Side-On shore with quite a bit of chop, which can become small rollers and waves. You can hence ride freestyle but also strapless. It’s one of the staple spots in the area.

A word from a local champ: Valentin Garat: “I often

go to Petit Travers when it blows South East because the wind comes in clean. There’s a bit of flat zones between the waves near the beach, but unfortunately the thermal session don’t happen that often. But when there’s a good 20 knots of wind, it’s one of my favorite spots. We would need to clean up the place in the summer though: it already cost me 2 bars!”

Extra points: The Golden Pond, Natural site; Paillotes.

Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction South West, South East Riding level

Office du tourisme de carnon 04 67 50 51 15 / www.carnontourisme.com

Wind Stats Month

Getting there:

From highway A9, take exit 29: Montpellier-Est / La Grande-Motte / Carnon, then keep going on the D66 and take the exit for Petit Travers. Take Left at the Round-About, the D59 and follow along the beach all the way to the beach number 74.

P.40 Spot Guide

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.41

SPOT

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

La Grande Motte Le Grand Travers

Hérault (34)

If you keep going along the avenue boarding the sea, you will go from Petit Travers, attached to the town of Carnon, to Grand Travers, attached to the town of Grande-Motte. The spots are very similar, working in the same wind directions: South-East to South West, sometimes building nice little waves when the depression is important enough. The wind blows On/ Side On shore, which make it a safe spot for beginners, especially that the beach is quite big and there is space to rig your gear, launch and land.

Extra Points: Espace Grand Bleu; 18 holes International Golf; Institut Thalassothérapie (Spa) ; Casino, Convention Cente; beach huts.

FFVL Club : Objectif Kiteloop

Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction South West, South East Riding level

Office du tourisme de la Grande Motte 04 67 56 42 00 / www.ot-lagrandemotte.fr

Wind Stats Month

Getting there:

From Highway A9, take exit 29 for Montpellier-Est / La Grande-Motte/Carnon, then continue on the D66 and take the exit for Grand Travers. Turn left at the intersection, towards La GrandeMotte and park on one of the parking areas along the beach. The access is on beaches 59 and 60.

P.42 Spot Guide

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.43

SPOT

La Grande Motte Port

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Hérault (34)

Located right in front of the nautical center and in the heart of La GrandeMotte, this spot is a staple for all types of riders in the region: windsurf, paddleboard, surf and kite, of course. It works mostly with southerly winds, from South East to South West (when it’s too East it becomes gusty). As soon as the wind starts to blow, or when depressions pass by, waves start to form to the greatest enjoyment of riders. But when the wind is too strong, the water becomes choppy and messy and it often rains. It is not the best spot for beginners, since the beach isn’t very big and it is boarded by beach huts a good part of the year: you have to be very careful. Amongst all the windsurfers and kiters, the water gets quite busy so it is sometimes better to go downwind a hundred meters for a quieter ride. When the wind blows from the South West, it usually blows between 12-20 knots. But when it comes from the South East, it can become strong and go up to over 30 knots. There is a kitesurf channel that was set up to access the zone over 300 meters over the swimmer zone.

Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction

Club FFVL : Objectif Kiteloop

Extra Points:

Espace Grand Bleu; 18 holes International Golf; Institut Thalassothérapie (Spa) ; Casino, Convention Center; Beach huts; sailing school.

Wind Stats Month

Getting there:

From Montpellier, take the A9 towards Maresille, get out at La Grande-Motte/Carnon (exit 29), continue on D66 and get out at Grande-Motte. Keep going straight towards the Centre Nautique, and then turn right at the light, still following indications for the Centre Nautique. Park in the big parking lot at the end of the Centre Nautique avenue.

P.44 Spot Guide

South West, South East Riding level

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.45

SPOT

Le Grau-du-Roi le Boucanet

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Gard (30)

Located at the exit for La Grande-Motte, towards the Grau-du-Roi, the “Bouca” as the locals call it, is one of the staple spots in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. It works in many wind directions: Northwest, but also with the southerlies, if there isn’t too much East. The wind is relatively strong, some small waves form, shaping nice kickers. When the Tram blows (North/West) the wind is sideshore (you will leave the water on a starboard tack) and side on with a South wind (you leave the water on a port tack. The inconvenient of this spot? Because of the way it is positioned, and because of the surrounding buildings, it becomes quite gusty, especially when the tram turns North East in the evening. There are dykes delimitating the spot, but the space is plenty for the spot not to feel too crowded.

Extra Points:

The Mediterranean House of Wines and Olives, Seaquarium, Leisure Parc, Camargue Loisirs…

Amenities

Getting there:

When coming from la Grande-Motte, cross the city and go towards the Grau-du-Roi. After a long straight line, you will pass the functional reeducation center on your right, keep going a bit to the intersection: le Boucanet will be indicated on your right. Stop when you see the parking spots on the left, once you can see the beach. When coming from the Grau-du-Roi, follow the indications for “Rive Droite” then at the roundabout take a right and follow the indications for “Le Boucanet”.

P.46 Spot Guide

Wind direction Best wind direction North West, West, South East Riding level

Office du tourisme du Grau du Roi 04 66 51 67 70 http://www.vacances-en-camargue.com

Wind Stats Month

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.47

SPOT

Port Camargue Plage-Nord

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Gard (30)

Here’s one of the best spots in Port Camargue, when the conditions are right. This spot works in winds coming from the North to Northwest. Once it veers towards North-North East, you can forget about it. There are many dykes on the North beach, and some shallow water too: all this put together make is an amazing freestyle spot, since it is very flat! But watch out for the breakwaters: always keep your distance! If you are a beginner, you may want to walk back upwind. Getting out of the breakwater zone, you can still have fun in the small wind swell. It’s the easiest spot around! When the tramontane wind blows, you can touch the bottom pretty much anywhere, the wind brings you back towards shore and the waves break on a sand bank.

Extra Points:

Spas; The Mediterranean House of Wines and Olives; Seaquarium; Leisure Parc; Camargue Loisirs…

Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction West, North West Riding level

Office du tourisme de Port Camargue 04 66 51 67 70 http://www.vacances-en-camargue.com

Wind Stats Month

Getting there:

Go towards the Grau-du-Roi. Keep an eye out for indications at the roundabouts. Follow indications for Port-Camargue, then once in Port Camargue, go towards the North Beach (Plage Nord) at the roundabout. Keep going straight all the way to the parking lot just beside the Yacht Club. Then you will have to walk a few dozen meters to get to the beach.

P.48 Spot Guide

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.49

SPOT

Port Camargue Plage-Sud

L a n g u e d o c - R o u s s i l l o n

Gard (30)

The mythical “South Beach” of the Languedoc Roussillon… This spot works in many westerly wind directions (even in South West, even if we don’t often think about it) all the way to North East winds. In a West North West wind, it blows almost on-shore, some small wind swell form, shaping nice little kickers. But watch out if you are a beginner: it’s a more difficult wind direction to ride and get out of the breakwater area. In North winds, the wind becomes side (and a bit gustier). You need to ride close to the breakwater for a nice flat zone. You can choose of you want to ride on the right or on the left of the breakwater. Depending on the wind direction, the water and the number of people on the spot, you might prefer one or the other. But make sure to always keep your distances with the breakwater downwind of you. And mostly, remember: there’s nothing classier than saying “I’m going to ride at South Beach”!

Extra Points:

Spas; The Mediterranean House of Wines and Olives; Seaquarium; Leisure Parc; Camargue Loisirs…

Amenities

Wind direction Best wind direction North, North West, West, Riding level

Office du tourisme de Port Camargue 04 66 51 67 70 http://www.vacances-en-camargue.com

Getting there:

Follow indications for the Grau-du-Roi. Keep an eye for the indications at the roundabout. Follow Port Camargue then, once in Port Camargue, head towards South Beach at the roundabout. Keep going straight. Park on the parking lot on your right, just after the grocery store and restaurants. The spot is easy to find if it’s windy: you will see the kites above the buildings. Park on your left or on your right, depending on where you want to ride..

P.50 Spot Guide

Wind Stats Month

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jui

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Av.

Probability of wind > 12 knots (%)

Av. Air temp (°C)

Dominant Wind direction

Spot Guide P.51

Kitesurf Professionals D

in the

Pyrénées-Orientales(66) CBCM KITESURF & SAILING French Kitesurf, SUP and windsurf school in the Eastern Pyrenées, just beside Perpignan. Open from April to October. Phone: 06 14 64 11 52 Postal Code: 66750 - St Cyprien Plage Website: http://cbcmboarderclub.org Kitoo French kitesurf school in the Eastern Pyrénées, just beside Perpignan. Open every day from April to December. Phone: 06 86 71 50 82 Postal Code: 66750 - St Cyprien Plage Website: http://www.kitoo.com

Aude(11) Narbone kite passion The kitesurf and SUP school welcomes you every day from April to November on the Bages pond, just outside of Narbonne. Phone: 06 79 82 72 53 Postal Code: 11100 - Narbonne Website: http://www.narbonnekitepassion.com TENDANCE KITE Kitesurf school in Sigean, open from April to November. Phone: 06 62 09 17 03 Postal Code: 11130 - Sigean Website: http://tendancekite.com

P.52 Spot Guide

Kitesurf Professionals t

in the

Adrenaline Online kitesurf shop and kitesurf shop in La Franqui (Leucate). Phone: 06 12 21 40 34 Postal Code: 11370 - Leucate Website: http://www.adrenaline-kitesurf.com

NAISH PRO CENTER – LEUCATE Surf shop, board sports specialist: kitesurf, windsurf, SUP, wake, kayak. Phone: 06 68 40 05 36 Postal Code: 11370 - Leucate Website: www.naishprocenterleucate.com

Chinook Kitesurf and windsurf shop, new and used gear, gear on consignment. Phone: 04 68 40 17 17 Postal Code: 11370 - Leucate Website: http://www.chinook-leucate.com

Surf One Kitesurf, windsurf, wakeboard, SUP and surf shop, new and used, online shop. Phone: 04 68 40 92 11 Postal Code: 11370 - Leucate Website: http://www.surfone-leucate.com

Doll Kiteboarding Kitresurf board shaper. Phone: alex@dollkiteboarding.com Code Postal : 11370 - Leucate Website: http://www.dollkiteboarding.com

Sky Fly The SkyFly Kitesurf School offers a one-of-akind structure to learn to kite faster, thanks SkyFly. Phone: 06 75 42 26 81 Postal Code: 11370 - Port Leucate Website: http://sky-fly.com

EB kite Kitesurf school in Leucate, La Franqui. Offers camps and private lessons to learn to kite. Phone: 06 13 83 10 43 Postal Code: 11370 - Leucate Website: www.ebkite.com LEUCATE VOILERIE Kite repair, conception and repair for all marine textile. Phone: 04 68 48 83 59 Postal Code: 11370 - Leucate Website: http://www.leucatevoilerie.com

ADDICTED 2 KITE Kitesurf school at Narbonne-Plage just beside Gruissan . Open April to November. Contact : 06 71 17 88 86 Code Postal : 11430 - Guissan Website: http:/www.addicted2kite.com POLE NAUTIQUE GRUISSAN Pole Nautique Gruissan is for all kitesurf, windsurf, catamaran, SUP and kayak lovers. Phone: 04 68 49 33 33 Postal Code: 11430 - Gruissan Website: http://polenautique-gruissan.com SNKITE Kite, windsurf, Optimist and SUP school. Phone: 04 68 49 22 31 Postal Code: 11560 - St Pierre la Mer Website: http://www.glisseetkite.com

Unikite Kitesurf and SUP school in Leucate and Barcares as well as on the Palme pond. Phone: 06 86 88 37 88 Postal Code: 11370 - Leucate Website: http://www.unikite.fr

Spot Guide P.53

Kitesurf Professionals D

in the

Hérault(34) Doc’Kite Repairs, modifications, creation of prototypes, kite personalization. Deposit in the “Kite Box” in Pérols or at the IBM Parc workshop in Montpellier. Phone: 06 10 16 36 00 Code Postal : 34000 - Montpellier Website: dockite.com Optimum Kitesurf school located in Montpellier and in Frontignan. Beach open year round. Phone: 06 64 88 39 52 Postal Code: 34110 - Frontignan Website: http://www.optimumkite.com TIKI CENTER : Kitesurf and SUP school located in Frontignan and Montpellier. Phone: 06 59 05 30 64 Code Postal : 34110 Frontignan Website: http://www.tiki-center.com Zeeko Kitesurf kite and board brand, located in Montpellier. Code Postal : 34110 Frontignan Phone: http://zeeko-kites.com RSC Kiteboarding Twintip and surfwave kitesurf board maker. Phone: http://www.rscboards.com Code Postal : 34130 - Valergues Vision One Event and promotional material. Code Postal : 34130 -Mauguio Website: http://www.v1-group.com

P.54 Spot Guide

Kitesurf Professionals t

in the

Fil d’Air Kitesurfing school offering lesions on the Thau pond, open from March 16 to November 11. Phone: 06 10 25 22 58 Postal Code: 34140 - Mèze Website: http://www.fildair.com

Axel’Air Kite shop and school, located in Carnon (just outside of Montpellier). Phone: 04 67 50 62 60 Postal Code: 34280 - Carnon Ouest Website: www.axelair.com

Stance Kiteboarding Attitude Reference website and magazine, specialized in kiteboarding. Phone: contact@stanceplanet.com Postal Code: 34400 - Lunel Website: www.stanceplanet.fr

AFK Kitesurf association with the goal to pair beginners and self-sufficient certified riders. Phone: eric.pelaprat@free.fr Postal Code: 34160 -St Drezery

Fluid School Kitesurf and wakeboard school in La Grande Motte and around, open year round. Phone: 04 67 60 39 39 43 Postal Code: 34280 - La grande Motte Website: http://www.fluid-school.com

Kakoo Shape Kitesurfing board shaping and repair workshop, located in Pérols. Phone: 06 62 34 06 79 Website: www.kakoo.fr

Magic Bruce Kitesurf board and kite maker and repairman, located in Sète. Phone: 06 62 34 06 79 Postal Code: 34200 - Sète Website: http://kitesurf-magicbruce.fr Moana Shop Kitesurf, SUP, Skate, Paddle, Roller, scooter... Moana Shop will be there with you in all the sports you love! Phone: 04 67 65 05 39 Postal Code: 34250 - Palavas les Flots Website: http://www.moanashop.fr

FRONTSIDE Shop located in Cape Agde (34) and online shop specialized in watersports. Phone: 04 48 14 00 45 Postal Code: 34300 - le Cap d’Agde Website: http://frontside.fr TOPKITE Kitesurf, wakeboard and SUP school as well as gear rental, located in Cape Agde. Phone: 06 27 77 72 47 Postal Code: 34300 - le Cap d’Agde Website: http://topkite.fr

KM System Numeric machinery specialized in big scale processing. Phone: 04 67 58 14 63 Website: http://www.kmsystem.fr IVANA DREAMS Advertising agency, marketing and multimedia located Montpellier. Contact : 06 14 62 43 98 Code Postal : 34980 - Saint Clément de Rivière Website: http://www.youngunz.tv

L’EFFET KITESCHOOL Kitesurfing school in Montpellier area. Open from April to November. Phone: 06 98 76 71 23 Postal Code: 34250 - Palavas-les-flots Website: http://www.l-effet-kiteschool.com Vague et Vent Boardshop specialized in kitesurf, wakeboard, snowboard, SUP windsurf, etc. Phone: 04 67 68 22 94 Postal Code: 34250 - Palavas les Flots Website: http://www.vagueetvent.com

Spot Guide P.55

Kitesurf Professionals D

in the

Guide Other sports

Gard(30)

Tao Design Design and conception. Phone: 06 16 64 51 14 Postal Code: 30140 - Bagard Mail : alain.bernard887@orange.fr Centre UCPA Port Camargue The UCPA center in Port Camargue offers sports camps (kitesurf, windsurf, sailing) with or without lodging. Phone: 04 66 51 47 92 Postal Code: 30240 - Le Grau du Roi Website: www.camargue@ucpa.asso.fr CLUB 30 KITE Kitesurf school located in Grau du Roi, open from April to November. Phone: 06 77 77 88 55 Postal Code: 30240 - Le Grau du Roi Website: www.club30kite.com

Hibiskite Kitesurf school, shop and rental located in Grau du Roi. Phone: 06 77 13 80 65 Postal Code: 30240 - Le Grau du Roi Website: http://www.hibiskite.com Takoon Kite and kitesurf board brand. Phone: www.takoon.com Code Postal : 30660 - Gallargues

Wakeboard Whether the wind is lacking or if you just want to have fun, wakeboarding is the perfect complementary activity to kiteboarding. In the last few years, cable parks have grown all around the country and the region of Languedoc Roussillon wasn’t spared! Here’s the list of wake parks you can find in the area: La Grande-Motte (34) : Wake Park Cable: In the Ponan port, on the pond sharing the same name, you can find a two tower cable with 1 double kicker and 2 sliders. More info and directions on www.wakeparkcable.com Marseillan (34) : Kithau Wake Park: Two tower system located on the Thau pond, just by the Marseillan port. 1 kicker and 1 flat bar slider. Info and reservation on Kithau.com Barcares (66) : KumWake Park: First two tower system to open in France, this wakepark in the middle of the Parc des Dosses is well known for the organization of the Wake’n’Beach, a competition that gathers each year the best French and international riders. For the

P.56 Spot Guide

HB kite Strapless kitesurf board shaper. Phone: 06 43 83 70 59 Postal Code: 30128 - Garons Website: www.hb-surfkite.com

features, there is a double kicker, a tube, and 2 sliders. Don’t forget to make a reservation before going. Info: www.kumwakepark.com. Téléski Nautique du Barcarès : The cable park is located in the Parc des Dosses, on the Barcarès pond. It is one of the oldest full cable parks in France: it was installed in 1979! A kicker and 2 sliders will make everyone happy and the less courageous can come watch the show on the restaurant’s patio on site. Info: www.teleskibarcares.com St Jean Plat de Corts (66) : TNJ Cable park (Téléski Nautique de Saint Jean Pla de Corts): In the middle of the outdoor recreational park, on a closed lade, this recent complet (opened in 2013) includes a big 5 tower cable park with many different sliders (2 kickers, 5 sliders and 1 custom), a two tower cable system for beginners as well as a restaurant. www.tsjwakepark.com

More info:

Ligue Languedoc Roussillon de Ski nautique et wakeboard : www.ffsnw.fr

Spot Guide P.57

Guide Other

Sports

More info: Ligue Languedoc-Roussillon de surf www.surfinglanguedoc.com Maison Régionale des sports 1039 rue Georges Méliès 34000 MONTPELLIER

Surf/Sup

Even if surfing on the Mediterranean Sea is not as common as on the Atlantic Coast, we can still find some great conditions on our beaches, if you are patient and know when to go. On the Mediterranean, and especially in the LanguedocRoussillon, the spots work when the swell come from the South to South East, and this direction of wind and waves usually comes with bad weather. You will often have to wait until the end of the depression; even until the wind turns off-shore to find clean, wind-less waves and sometimes even hollowed by the off-shore wind…. And that’s when it is worth to go for a surf session! Carnon les Roquilles: Located on the right shore of the Carnon Port, the Roquilles spot works for surfers with East to South-East swells. Palavas le Prévost: The Prévost spot is located in Palavas, just outside of the city towards Maguelone. It is possible to surf on both sides of the channel (the grau). The right hand side of the spot works better with East to South East swells and the left hand side is more interesting in South or South East swells, when the waves are cleaner. Palavas Rive Droite: Often crowded, this spot works well for all swell directions from East to South West. Sète la Chapelle: Coming from Montpellier, follow Sète downtown and then follow the indications for the Théâtre de la Mer, go along the cliff road then take a left towards the sea at the casino, go 100m or 200m more then park on the parking lot located left of the buildings by the sea: The spot is just to the right at the end of the breakwater. The spot works well with a East to South East swell, and in the latter it makes a very nice left on the rock slab.

P.58 Spot Guide

If you prefer sand bottom, you will sure find a peak between Sète and Marseillan. Gruissan: On highway A9 take the Narbonne-Plage exit then follow the indications for “Gruissan” and go towards the beaches. The spot is on the right shore of the ports mouth. It’s one of the best spots in the Aude region, a beach break with many peaks and good probabilities of getting an offshore wind. Canet: From highway A9, get out at Perpignan and go towards Canet en Roussillon then straight to the port. The spot is just South of the port, by the dyke. It is a very good choice of spot on an East swell (doesn’t happen very often), well adapted to longboarding but very crowded when it is working. St Cyprien: In Perpignan, go towards “Canet en Roussillon” then once in Canet, take “St Cyprien-Plage” towards “the port”. The spot is on the beaches just North of the port. Good surf and bodyboard spot with an east swell, with more hollow waves than in Canet. LEUCATE PLAGE: Park at the Place du Front de Mer and you will discover the nicest SUP spot in the area, with an amazing sight on the Leucate cliff and its famous Cape. This beach break forms many peaks and will allow you to practice this activity no matter your level, depending on the conditions. During the summer months, you have to respect the riding zones. You can get that information by talking to the lifeguards in the life saving stations. They will give you all the necessary information.

Windsurf

Just like for kitesurfing, the Languedoc-Roussillon is filled with good windsurfing spots. Even in the spots we talked about in this guide are also good for windsurfing, there are some more known for gathering a great number of windsurfers. La Grande-Motte: Located just by the nautical center, on the right hand side of the breakwater, it is a staple spot in South East winds. The waves can be clean and consistent. Les Aresquiers: Perfect spot for the Tramontane winds (West to North West) and the shallow water makes it nice for beginners. Le Lac du Salagou: Located in the middle of dry lands, and in the heart of the red mountains, the Salagou Lake is a very windy spot, also good for beginners. All wind directions work. Richelieu: At Cape Agde, this spot is well known for its memorable wave sessions when the South East winds blow. Gruissan-Leucate: Entre ces 2 villes, une longue plage de plusieurs kilomètres où les amoureux de la vitesse viennent dés que le vent s’oriente North-Ouest. SALSES-LEUCATE POND: Once again, it is a location loved by windsurfers in the area when the tramontane blows. Le Goulet, la Mine, le Corrège are the most well known spots.

Snowkite

When the temperatures drop and the water becomes too cold, there is another solution for the addicted kiteboarders who want to keep riding all through winter. Snowkiting is simply kitesurfing but on the snow, this time with skis or with a snowboard. You can cruise around on snowy plateaus and passes, discovering the mountain in a new way. These few spots in our region show all the necessary characteristics to be able to ride in a fun and safe environment. More information on: www.kite.ffvl.fr. Les Angles (66): This station is very attractive for this discipline with its plain at 1500m in altitude, a frozen lake, a closed down airport accessible to snowkiters as well as a plateau at 2500m in altitude. This spot was the location for the finals of the 2010 snowkite championships. Porté-Puymorens (66): You will need to access this place through the station with a pedestrian access or by foot by the road going up to the hotel parking lot (when the access to the pass has not been plowed). This spot works well with Northerly winds. https://intranet.ffvl.fr/sites_pratique/voir/2223 Bonnecombe (48): This spot is at a 2h drive from Montpellier, taking the A75. You need to take exit 40 towards St Germain du Teil then towards the Col du Trebatut the Col de Bonnecombe. The riding zone is humongous by North winds. http://federation.ffvl.fr/sites/col-de-bonnecombe

More info:

Ligue Languedoc Roussilon de voile : www.ffvoilelr.net

Spot Guide P.59

jwel-2015

Hôtel de Région

201 avenue de la Pompignane 34064 Montpellier cedex 2 Tél. 04 67 22 80 00