Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Étang-Salé-les-Bains
POP 12,000
Miles away from the hullabaloo around St-Gilles, Étang-Salé-les-Bains is a low-key resort
more for locals than foreign tourists, though its superb black-sand beach is no longer a
secret for in-the-know sunbathers, swimmers and surfers.
Sights & Activities
Croc Parc
( 0262 91 40 41;
www.crocparc.re
; Route Forestière; adult/child €8/6; 10am-5pm)
Wanna keep the kids
happy? Take a small detour to this zoo, near Étang-Salé-les-Hauts (it's signposted). There
are about 100 reptiles at the complex. Admission is steep, but worthwhile if your visit co-
incides with a feeding demonstration, held at 4pm on Wednesday and Sunday.
ZOO
Plongée Salée
( 0262 91 71 23;
www.plongeesalee.com
; 5 Rue Mottet de Narbonne; daily)
Very few visitors know
that diving is available at Étang-Salé-les-Bains. The sites are almost untouched. The own-
ers of this reputable outfit take only small diving groups. Single dives start at €39. An in-
troductory dive costs €63.
DIVING
Ecole de Surf du Sud
( 0692 63 68 95;
www.ecoledesurf-dusud.com
;
8 Ruelle des Roses; by reservation)
Hawaii it ain't, but
Étang-Salé-les-Bains has respectable waves that are suitable for beginners. Ecole de Surf
du Sud runs lessons (from €30) and courses. Guided stand-up paddle board tours are also
offered.
SURFING
Beaches
The generous stretch of ash-coloured
beach
on the northern outskirts of town is great for
sunbathing, swimming and ogling unfortunate tan lines, and offers excellent sunset vistas.
Most of the beach has a shallow bottom with a gradual slope. To the south, near the har-
bour, there's a smaller beach known as
Bassin Pirogue
, which is ideal for kids - a shallow
reef close to shore makes for calm, protected waters.
