Nestled on the Mediterranean coast in the South of France lies Sète, a charming port city flanked by the biodiverse Étang de Thau lagoon on one side and the stunning Mediterranean Sea on the other. Yet, it’s the intricate network of canals that has earned Sète the moniker “Venice of the Languedoc” or even “the Venice of France”.

The canal system weaves through the city, linking the lagoon and the sea, creating an impression that Sète is gracefully floating on water. Echoing the allure of Italy’s Venice, Sète is a watery wonderland where boat tours are a hit with visitors, and colourful rowing boats add to the picturesque scenery. Travel insurance experts at StaySure have pinpointed Sète as one of the top “hidden gems” in the South of France, saying: “Sète is France’s answer to Venice.”

They recommend indulging in boat tours for an enchanting perspective of the city, some of which venture into the Étang.

However, the quintessential experience involves lounging on a canalside restaurant terrace, savouring local oysters complemented by a refreshing bottle of Picpoul de Pinet.

With the Languedoc vineyards within easy reach, Sète offers a bounty of “affordable and easy-drinking wines”, perfect for pairing with the abundant fresh seafood that the city’s prime location provides.

Oysters, a local delicacy, are cultivated in the Étang before being exported globally.

“A combination of fresh sea water coming in to replenish the lake, the shelter of the lagoon-like environment and abundance of sun means these oysters are large, plump and much meatier compared to the native oysters in the UK,” remarked the connoisseurs at Staysure.

For those looking to stretch their legs post-lunch or in search of the most stunning panoramas, Mont St-Clair offers an unrivalled vantage point.

Visitors have the choice to either ascend the 175 metres on foot or take a more leisurely approach by car, with the convenience of a car park awaiting at the summit.