2025 Tour Day 6 - La Plage

Back on our bikes, but pannier free, we cycled in a circle to visit La Plage Narbonne. 

Cycling out of Narbonne we briefly followed the Canal, but soon found winding country roads with vineyards and views.   

This old vineyard (below) had been left to die. Sort of a sad site to see, but maybe her best days were behind her and it was time to move on. 

The route took us through the Parc-naturel-narbonnaise, through low lying marsh like areas, where we could see salt harvesting, and many birds. 

Our first stop was Gruissan, a lively little seaside town with cobblestoned streets and a marching band rehearsing near the town square. The ruins of the Barberousse Tower could be seen before anything else.

Traditionally a fishing village, the circular town is built around the former castle; a 10th-century château of which only the Tour Barberousse (Redbeard Tower) remains.

After circling the town, we headed north along many kilometers of beach.  Plage de Chalets, Plage de Mateille, Plage de Ayguades... With many little cottages for rent and campgrounds, but very little commerce. Except, of course, the best kind. Go Karts!

I loved these bike racks, made from driftwood, at one of the paths to the beach. 

Eventually we arrived at plage de Narbonne, and enjoyed our picnic lunch in a lovely shaded seating area. Very civilized. 

As we cycled up the beach, it was not crowded, but there was definitely a good vibe. People enjoying a beautiful day on the Mediterranean. 

One little burger hut had these great kites (balloons?) flying to attract customers. 

Beyond Narbonne beach we found a large market in the parking lot at Saint Pierre La Mer. So many vendors of food and clothes, jewelery and beach stuff. It was just after 1:00 so most vendors were closing down, but we got to see most of the stalls, and enjoy some window shopping. 

We turned inland from there, back into topography, as we cycled through the Clape Massif area. Very beautiful, but I didn't get a good photo so here is one from Google. 

The "D" roads were quiet and winding and again we saw amazing rock faces, vineyards, rock walls and more vineyards. 

It was a perfect day to ride, 23° C and a little wind pushing us back inland, back "up" to Narbonne.  So nice to be pannier-free, and come "home" to our cute little place in Narbonne. 

Today's Strava map shows the circle we cycled. 

Game 7 tonight. 

Mom, I am sorry I am not in Burlington cheering them on with you. I am there in spirit, that's for sure. Go Leafs Go!