Vendres brings together several themes for a trip: the wetland around the Étang de Vendres, the protected coastal landscape, birdwatching and the Temple de Vénus ruins. Fishing and shellfish farming are also part of the picture at Port du Chichoulet. When choosing a suitable place to stay, it is worth distinguishing between these highlights: the lagoon and reed beds represent the wetland, the dunes and beaches the coastal landscape, and the Villa Temple de Vénus adds a historical dimension.

Lagoon, Reed Beds and Coastal Dunes

The Basse plaine de l'Aude Natura 2000 site includes the more or less saline Vendres lagoon, as well as an area of coastal dunes. The Étang de Vendres is one of the most significant reed-bed areas in the Mediterranean region. Vendres’ natural setting therefore includes both wetlands and coastal dunes.

The beaches of Vendres stretch for more than three kilometres through a protected natural area. The Le Cordon dunaire dune corridor in Vendres-Plage lies within the Conservatoire du Littoral area, a Natura 2000 site and an important bird conservation area. If nature is your main focus, you can choose to explore the lagoon and reed beds, the dunes or the birdlife, depending on your interests.

Nature Excursions and Coastal Routes

To explore the wetland, you can join the guided Balade nature accompagnée at the Étang de Vendres. For a different perspective, take the Randonnée de la Boucle du Littoral: it starts at the harbormaster’s office at Port du Chichoulet in Vendres-Plage and follows the dunes by the sea, where many birds can be observed. The two options differ in setting: a guided nature excursion in the wetland or a hike along the coastal dunes with opportunities for birdwatching.

The Voie verte Bayssan–Vendres plage runs into the municipality of Vendres, where it has an observatory and information panels about the local fauna and flora. In Vendres-Plage, Espace Location Jet Rando 34 offers guided hikes and rents stand-up paddleboards for leisurely trips on the sea. This commercial service is seasonal; check operating dates in advance if you plan to take part in one of these activities.

Ruins and Harbour

The “Temple de Vénus” villa is a ruin site on a promontory by the Étang de Vendres, 600 metres from the village. It was first used between the 1st and 3rd centuries. The site combines a specific location by the Étang with a historical connection, adding another focus for trip planning alongside the natural attractions.

Port du Chichoulet combines three functions: a marina, a fishing harbour and a shellfish-farming harbour. Fishing and shellfish-farming professionals offer oysters and mussels to eat on site or take away. If you plan to make use of either option, contact the providers directly before your visit: operators and opening arrangements may change.

Discover more destinations: Aigues-Vives, La Caunette, Ceyras, Sussargues, Puilacher, Ganges, Mèze, Valras-Plage

For the broader travel overview: Hérault.