Between sea, lakes and vineyards, in the heart of a preserved landscape classified Natura 2000, Leucate offers a concentrate of nature, history and seaside pleasures. This singular peninsula, whose name comes from the Greek leukos - "whiteness" - in reference to its clear cliffs, has long served as a landmark for sailors. During our visit, we were seduced by the diversity of its landscapes, its beaches as far as the eye can see, its typical villages and its activities to suit all tastes. Wondering what to do and see in Leucate? Here's our selection of the 8 must-sees.
1. Cap Leucate, a line of cliffs
Cap Leucate is an impressive line of cliffs rising up to 50 meters above the sea, between Leucate and La Franqui. This unspoilt stretch of coastline offers walkers spectacular views of the coast and hinterland. At the summit, a vast plateau is home to an ancient lighthouse and semaphore. Subject to strong winds, Cap Leucate is also an ideal spot for paragliding enthusiasts. For those seeking shelter from the tramontana, La Plagette - a cliff-backed dune much appreciated by locals - is an ideal stopover.
Read more : What to do and see in the Aude? Top 19 must-sees
2. Enjoy the beaches around Leucate
In Port Leucate, you can choose between the large sandy beach lined with a pontoon and a pedestrianized seafront, the naturist beach near the oyster-farming center, the wild Mouret beachor the family-friendly beach in the heart of Leucate Plage. You can also relax on the Briganti beach, protected from the tramontane wind, or in the intimate La Plagette cove at the foot of the cliff. Further north, La Franqui will seduce you with its "vintage" beach charm and, a little further afield, the unspoilt beach of Les Coussoules, renowned as an unmissable kitesurfing spot.
See also: Where to go on beach vacations? Top destinations
3. Wine tasting in the vineyards of Cap Leucate
The Cap Leucate vineyards cooperative groups together 130 associated winegrowers and operates a 1,100-hectare vineyard. In its modern winery, it produces H.V.E.-certified wines in the Fitou, Corbières, Muscat de Rivesaltes and Rivesaltes PDO appellations, as well as vins de pays. Located by the sea, on sun-drenched hillsides, Leucate 's terroir produces wines that combine authenticity and modernity. Come and discover their different cuvées and local specialities during a tasting in one of their cellars in Leucate Village or Port Leucate, or at an event hosted by their Wine-Truck.
4. Admire the remains of Leucate castle
While you're here, take the time to admire the remains of Leucate castle, whose lines bear witness to a variety of architectural influences. Perched high on the hillside, it offers a remarkable view of the surrounding countryside. The ruins are a reminder of Leucate's strategic importance in the Middle Ages, when the town was located on the border between the kingdoms of France and Spain. In the 16th century, it was redesigned with the introduction of an innovative concept for the time: bastioned enclosures. Château de Leucate thus became the very first prototype of this type of fortification in Europe. Following the signing of the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659, which put an end to Franco-Spanish tensions, the site lost its strategic importance. Its demolition was ordered in 1665.
Read more: Top 27 most beautiful châteaux to visit in France
5. Visit the Grotte des Fées
Located south of Leucate, the Grotte des Fées has been a listed historic monument since 1924. Ten years earlier, archaeologist Théodore Héléna unearthed six terracotta statuettes dating back to the 1st or 2nd century A.D. These figures, probably representations of Greco-Roman divinities such as Aphrodite, Mercure and Minerve, are now housed in the Musée de Sigean. The cave itself comprises five siphons, totalling 120 metres in length and reaching depths of up to 34 metres.
6. What to do in Leucate Canyoning
Looking for a thrill? Max and Lola are here to satisfy your craving for adventure. Having explored the best canyoning spots around the world and obtained their state diplomas, they chose to settle in Leucate to share their passion. Canyoning, rafting, via ferrata... they offer unique, supervised and accessible experiences. Discover the most beautiful canyons in the Aude and Pyrénées-Orientales regions, in complete safety, and leave with a lifetime of memories!
See also: Top 11 destinations for extreme sports enthusiasts
7. Enjoy an electric scooter ride with family and friends
Trott'up is a trendy, eco-friendly activity, ideal for sharing with family and friends. Get on an electric all-terrain scooter and explore spectacular landscapes. One route takes you right up to the cliffs of Leucate, offering breathtaking views. Another route takes you to the foot of the castle ruins before descending to the shores of the lake. Two gourmet walks are also available: "L'ostréicole" and "Dans les vignes de Fitou", with wine tasting at the end. For groups, an all-inclusive corporate package is available, including meeting room, meal and scooter ride.
8. Discover windsurfing in Leucate
The club founded by Julien and Caroline, two former windsurfing champions, has become a benchmark in the sport. Located on the Goulet spot, it attracts both professional riders and enthusiasts looking for equipment or to improve their skills. The duo offer windsurf and paddle rentals, organize training courses, host summer events and provide two skateboard ramps. At the Wesh Center Crew, you can also enjoy an excellent burger or sip a drink while taking in the breathtaking view over the pond. A place not to be missed, both sporty and friendly!
Where to stay in Leucate?
Here are a few suggestions for accommodation in Leucate, to suit different styles of stay:
- For sports fans: Leukos
Are you a windsurfer visiting Leucate or the surrounding area? This residence bookable here is made for you. In fact, the owner has designed all the apartments with windsurfing, his passion, in mind. You'll also find all the amenities you need, such as equipment rinsing facilities and individual board storage lockers. If you're not a windsurfer, you're welcome to join us.
- The most luxurious: Le 19-21 - Leucate
Bookable right here, Le 19-21 - Leucate is a superb boutique hotel housed in a former cellar and manor house, where luxury and design take center stage on every floor. Rooms are tastefully decorated, well-equipped and cosy, with private gardens or balconies overlooking the village. The hotel boasts a swimming pool and sauna, and from mid-May it opens its private beach "Le Poulpe" at Leucate-Plage. A unique stay awaits you.
What beautiful villages to visit around Leucate?
Around Leucate, there are many villages worth visiting for their charm, heritage and authentic atmosphere. Here's a selection of beautiful villages to discover in the area:
- Gruissan (approx. 25 km away)
A typical Mediterranean village, built in a spiral around the ruins of the Barbarossa tower. Its old town, salt marshes, marina and beaches make it a must-see.
Read more : What to do and see in Gruissan The 13 must-sees
- Bages (approx. 30 km away)
Perched high above the Etang de Bages-Sigean, this picturesque village boasts peace and quiet, narrow streets and superb views over the ponds. A popular spot for artists and nature lovers.
- La Palme (approx. 12 km away)
An ancient winegrowing village with stone streets, a Romanesque church and a remarkable natural environment. The surrounding ponds are popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers.
- Fitou (approx. 10 km away)
Renowned for its AOP wines, Fitou boasts a medieval château housing a museum, as well as several cellars worth visiting. The village also offers beautiful views of the Corbières and the sea.
- Peyriac-de-Mer (approx. 35 km away)
A real favorite. This charming village is known for its wooden footbridges over the old salt pans, its walks around the pond and its peaceful atmosphere.
- Sigean (approx. 25 km away)
The old town center still retains some of its charm, but it's especially well worth a visit to the Réserve Africaine de Sigean, a vast semi-natural wildlife park that's very popular with families.
Read more: Tips and tricks for organizing your day at the Réserve Africaine de Sigean
