THE OLD PORT

Presentation

Water is everywhere in Sète.
It is the biggest fishing port in the Mediterranean, thanks to the fish auction, the flotilla of tuna boats and trawlers and small net-casting activity in the sea and
lagoon.

  •  - © Ville de Sète
The fishing port in the Royal canal, sheltered from the old port, is a special attraction that has always seduced sea lovers visiting Sète. The fabulous spectacle of trawlers returning to port every afternoon can be admired from the breakwater or the promenade overlooking the old dock.

In the heart of the old port, the Sète fish auction provides produce throughout France including Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Marseille, as well as Italy and Spain. The 17 trawlers and small fishermen catch ten tonnes of fish every day. The fish auction sells 90 species including monkfish, red mullet, capelin and octopus. With 2,200 tonnes caught throughout the year, Sète is the biggest fishing port in the French Mediterranean. The Sète fish auction was the first in Europe to be computerised in 1967.
  •  - © Ville de Sète
  •  - © Ville de Sète
  •  - © Ville de Sète
  •  - © Ville de Sète

Saint Louis breakwater

The first work built when the city was founded in 1666, the breakwater protects the port from severe storms coming from the southeast. The dock, sheltered by the Vieux Bassin jetty, was and still is, the original fishing port. The port situated in the heart of the city rather than the open sea is an original feature of Sète. It is also where the marina with 300 berths can be found. Follow the pier to Saint-Louis lighthouse.


Saint Louis lighthouse

Built around 1680 and demolished in 1944 by German mines, the lighthouse was rebuilt in 1948.
The red light of the lighthouse continues to signal the entrance to the channel and is now open to the public. Climb the steps of this incredible belvedere and enjoy 360° degree views of the trade harbour, the marina and the old town.


A family visit:

Children are in for a surprise at the end of the visit. Admission is free for children aged 11 and under.
This visit is ideal for families and has been awarded the “Famille Plus” label!
  •  - © N. Chauveau
  •  - © N. Chauveau
  •  - © N. Chauveau
  •  - © Ville de Sète
Saint-Louis lighthouse :