Are you on vacation in La Grande-Motte? Discover the best things to do in this seaside resort in the south of France?
Located in the Hérault department, La Grande-Motte is bathed by the Mediterranean Sea, yet only 20km from Montpellier. The seaside resort, dedicated to tourism and relaxation, was built in the 1970s and boasts a unique architecture that can be recognized from afar. Its white pyramid-shaped buildings (of pre-Columbian inspiration) are scattered amid the tree-lined parks that are the town’s trademark.
Its reputation has spread beyond the borders of France. Every year, thousands of tourists from all over Europe come to visit La Grande Motte. And there’s no shortage of activities. Whether you’re with family, friends or as a couple, there’s something for everyone.
Here’s a selection of the best things to do in La Grande-Motte, to make the most of your stay!
1. The beaches of La Grande Motte
La Grande-Motte is first and foremost a seaside resort, so it would be a shame not to take advantage of its long sandy beaches. From Carnon to Grau du Roi, enjoy walks along the sand dunes, cool off in the Mediterranean or perfect your tan.
The Plage du Couchant is particularly popular with families, thanks to the many water-based activities on offer, while the wilder Plage du Grand travers is an area protected by the Conservatoire du Littoral.
Point Zéro beach, in the center of town, is also very lively, with numerous restaurants and cafés all along the seafront promenade. The ideal place to enjoy an ice cream at sunset.
2. Visit La Grande Motte on foot or by bike
La Grande Motte isn’t just defined by its beaches. Indeed, the town also has a lot to offer, with beautiful wooded areas where it’s good to take a stroll. Above all, however, it owes its renown to its atypical architecture, designed by Jean Balladur. Numerous guided walking and cycling tours are available to discover this unique architectural heritage.
Admire the various buildings, including the famous Great Pyramid, which dates back to 1974. A network of bicycle paths makes getting around the city a breeze.
3. Le Grand Bleu de la Grande Motte
Photo credit: Instagram – donstefano69
If you’re wondering what to do in La Grande Motte during a holiday with family or friends, we recommend a relaxing day at Le Grand Bleu. This fun-filled water park features an indoor and outdoor pool area, waterslides, whirlpools and beautiful lawns shaded by pine trees, ideal for picnics.
The Grand Bleu is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, who like to come and cool off in summer.
4. Grande Motte Adventure Park
Photo credit: Instagram -ponantaventure
Attention thrill-seekers! Ponant Aventure welcomes you to 10 new accrobranche courses, and over 140 workshops between sky and sea.
Accessible even to the youngest visitors, this adventure park offers an exceptional view from the top of wooden masts up to 25 meters high. A fun and sporty way to enjoy your stay. Take the opportunity to discover the water sports on offer on nearby Lac du Ponant.
5. La Grande Motte Golf Club
Photo credit: Instagram – sophiesupp
In the heart of the seaside resort, on a 100-hectare estate, including 20 hectares of water, lies an international golf course.
Take advantage of 3 courses and the complex’s ancillary facilities. A little break just a stone’s throw from the beach.
6. Water sports at La Grande Motte
If there’s one thing you can’t do in La Grande Motte, it’s water sports. Thrill-seekers will be spoilt for choice with flyboarding, parasailing and other board sports.
Take to the skies on a parasailing flight
Photo credit: Flickr – Daniel BRACCHETTI
Take to the skies and watch La Grande Motte from the air. It’s the ideal way to enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean landscape, with family or friends. Parasailing is accessible to everyone from 5 years of age, and can be done in twos or threes.
Once aboard the boat, you leave the shore and head out to sea, where you take your place in your harness, attached to a parachute. The ride lasts an average of 15 minutes, during which you’ll feel cut off from the world.
A sunset boat trip
What better way to enjoy the sunset than a trip out to sea? Climb aboard a boat or catamaran and glide across the Mediterranean. This activity is particularly popular with couples, but will also appeal to young and old alike.
Renting a boat allows you to get away from the hustle and bustle of the beach and relax for a while, to the rhythm of the waves and the orange colors of the setting sun. In fact, while this activity can be enjoyed at any time of day, sunset is best.
Fly with the Flyboard
Have you always dreamed of flying? Well, here’s an activity at La Grande Motte that’s just right for you! This 4-bar board with two nozzles connected to a jet ski turbine propels you through the air like a superhero.
Flyboarding is a guaranteed thrill. You can even try your hand at a few acrobatic tricks in the air. Please note, however, that this activity is only available to those aged 16 and over.
Try your hand at Paddle Boarding
Paddle boarding is a very easy activity, performed on a large, stable board using a paddle. Less physical than surfing, it still appeals to sports enthusiasts, and is ideal for outings with family or friends.
TheEtang du Ponant at La Grande Motte is the perfect spot for this activity.
Let the buoys pull you along
Photo credit: Instagram – ados_fuveau
Here’s an activity that’s sure to delight young and old alike! Put on your lifejackets, and climb onto the big buoys pulled by a boat. Then it’s time to hang on to the buoys so you don’t get thrown off.
The towed buoy is an activity open to all, at a very affordable price.
Jet Ski adventure
Alone or in pairs, discover the Mediterranean coastline on a sea scooter. It’s an original way to visit La Grande Motte and get the most out of your trip.
Get up to speed and have fun jumping the waves. This activity is open to everyone, aged 16 and over, whether or not you hold a coastal sailing license.
Good to know:
The Grande Motte tourist office also offers a Nautipass for €10, valid for the whole family (maximum 4 people) and entitling you to up to 30% discount on your favorite water sports.
So, are you ready to fill your senses at La Grande Motte?
Map of hotels and accommodation – La Grande Motte