Leucate
Now if you are a windsurf maniac like my other half, you will appreciate the importance of coastal reccys. And if you are unfamiliar with this little part of the med coast, I may have a few tips for you. We first came to this area by the lure of Leucate. A lovely old village full of colour, situated between the cities of Narbonne and Perpignan. I fell in love immediately and wanted to stay forever, but house prices dictated we looked elsewhere. This didn’t stop us driving down to this gorgeous spot whenever we had the time. Lovely outdoor cafes, a ruined castle on a hill, a micro-climate in which the sun always seems to shine, the best croissants we have ever tasted (seriously) - you know, all the good stuff. From phare du cap Leucate, on a clear day, you have a view over the mediterranean sea to the spanish border, and a panoramic view of the snow capped pyrenees during winter. It really is breathtaking.
During the warmer months, the lagoon fills with windsurfers and the place is abuzz, especially with free-campers. For the more adventurous windsurfer, the sea offers a good sail at La Franqui and beyond the campsite at Leucate plage - where there are a couple of very trendy beach bars during high season. Now I can’t help but be all british and think that one of the things I like most about Leucate is the parking situation. I know, how very boring. But doesn’t it make such a difference when you can just arrive, park and get straight on that beach? No hassle, no jams, and you won’t be left broke by any charges - because it’s all free! If you are in a camper, like us, you can pitch up for the night for €6 right on the beach, or a little more to be further away and nearer the loo-block! And the beach front is totally uncommercial, with just a couple of discreet hotels and restaurants, it’s perfect.
Head to the shop ‘Chinnock’ by the supermarket car park, for all your windsurf gear and tips. With an abundance of stock, they will definitely have what you need. “Business is on the up”, the owner told us not long ago - the recession certainly hasn’t hit windsurfing here yet.
Before heading north, check out the pretty villages of Peyriac de Mer and Bages, both of which are set by a huge lagoon, inhabited by flamingoes. There are some lovely coastal walks to be had from here. And I am told that there is a supremely good restaurant in Bages itself.
(guest article and photos kindly contributed by Imogen Lock)
Visit Leucate (Languedoc-Roussillon, Aude) travel, gites and hotels
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The Leucate hotels listed feature descriptions, guest reviews, ratings, location maps, online booking etc. as well as the 'best-price' guarantee. The search for hotels in Leucate is provided by booking.com. General holiday / vacation options- See Languedoc-Roussillon gites for Leucate holiday rentals - Holiday villages in Languedoc-Roussillon Holidays nearbyLooking for something close by? See a wide choice of hotels, holiday villages and holiday rentals at: VisitSee Visit Leucate for places to visit near Leucate including: a detailed map, villages in bloom and most beautiful villages DiscussAsk questions or leave a comment about Leucate in our Languedoc-Roussillon forum Airports near LeucateCarcassonne airport at 86 km Montpellier airport at 126 km Perpignan airport at 26 km Leucate property for saleSee Languedoc-Roussillon property for sale
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Places to visit near Leucate, France
Explore places of interest within about 70 kilometres on a map at places near Leucate.
Some places to visit within 30 km: 
28 km: Fontfroide Abbey (Abbey) 15 km: Fort de Salses (Historical fort) 23 km: Gruissan (village and surfing beach) 28 km: Perpignan (Large university town) 26 km: Perpignan airport (airport) 14 km: Sigean Nature Reserve (African Nature Reserve)
See also Leucate (version Francais)
