Port-la-Nouvelle is a coastal town in the Aude region of Occitania. Located about 20 km south of Narbonne, the city developed thanks to an exceptional geographical environment, between sea, inland ponds and at the foot of the Corbières massif.
For a long time it was a simple fishermen's hamlet, officially created in 1844 as "La Nouvelle", becoming "Port-la-Nouvelle" in 1953. As if to symbolize the city's double economic vocation, which has become a strong port The fishing while having from the second half of the nineteenth century acquired a reputation as a pleasant seaside resort.
Port-la-Nouvelle with some 5,700 inhabitants is the 17th French commercial port, and remains active in the fisheries sector (it is the 3rd French port of the Mediterranean in this area, with a dozen trawlers in service).
A step or a stay in Port-la-Nouvelle allows to enjoy 10 km of beaches, but also to discover an exceptional natural heritage in terms of landscape and biodiversity, the municipality being part of the Regional Natural Park of Narbonnaise in the Mediterranean.
In terms of built heritage, the tower of the Old New Town erected 1742, to watch and defend the coast, is worth the detour for its square-shaped pyramid shape. The recent character of the city makes it the only classified site.
But other amazing discoveries await visitors. Like the Whale Museum, which features a perfectly preserved skeleton of a failed whale in 1989. Free entrance from Easter to the end of September. Information on +33 4 68 48 00 39.
In a completely different field, it may be interesting to visit the wind farm: fifteen windmills 60 meters high located in the garrigue. Guided tour for groups. Contact the +33 4 68 40 31 24.
One can also visit the ports and better understand their organization. For the commercial port, call +33 4 68 48 01 56; For the marina, please call +33 4 68 27 06 09. Finally, for the fishing port, in order to visit the fish auction or to see the return of the trawlers (around 16h), please call +33 4 68 48 02 35.
Note that in July and August, on Sunday morning, from 9:30 am, demonstrations of trolling followed by a sardinian (tasting of grilled sardines) are offered free of charge.
The rendezvous is fixed at the First Rescue Station 1 of the long beach of nearly 10 km (there are three stations, but beware: the beaches of the Vieille Nouvelle and Montilles are not monitored).
In season, besides lazing around and swimming, you can practice free volleyball, football, tennis.
For diving enthusiasts, initiation and possible excursions from June to September. Information on +33 7 88 53 45 78.
If you prefer the municipal swimming pool (especially because of weather), it offers a sports pool and playful facilities. Admission: 2 and 3,50 euros. Information on +33 4 68 40 33 49.
Finally, always for the sportsmen, it is possible to take advantage of the tennis courts of the local club: reservation and information on +33 4 68 48 36 65.
Rest for visitors and tourists visiting or staying at Port-la-Nouvelle to discover the amazing environment of the city and its immediate surroundings. A natural reserve, two sites protected by the conservatory of the littoral: the island of Saint Lucia and the domain of Frescati. Without forgetting the channel of the Robine and its banks (parallel to the canal of the Midi which comes to join the sea to Port-la-Nouvelle).
Many hiking trails to walk, mountain bike or horse riding, with sometimes guided tours (discovery of fauna and flora) are arranged and available. Information from the Tourist Office on +33 4 68 48 00 51 or from the Regional Nature Park on +33 4 68 42 23 70.
In January, Port-la-Nouvelle hosts the Mirages festival devoted to video (screenings, meetings). Free admission to the media library.
The first week-end of March, inter-departmental choreographic meetings at the Théâtre de la Mer.
The last Sunday of March, carnival (parade, shows).
The first Sunday in April, the eel festival (downtown). Tastings, fun activities, gourmet market and exhibitions.
From mid-July to mid-August, festival in Garrigue at the Garrigue theater. Dance performances, jazz concerts, plays. Information on +33 4 60 48 00 51.
Finally, in order to better know and appreciate the productions of the terroir, a traditional market is organized all the year on Wednesday and Saturday morning place of the church and place Léon Blum. In summer, a market is also held on Avenue de la Mer.
Finally, in the summer, every Wednesday from 5 pm to midnight, a market of regional products and arts and crafts is offered to holidaymakers.
