The ideal Languedoc beach for families: Argells-Plage

Languedoc-Roussillon

Languedoc has more than its fair share of stunning beaches but if you are a family with children, it is hard to beat Argells-Plage. If you are lucky enough to be staying in one of the countless gites in Languedoc this summer, grab your beach towel and head for this seaside paradise. Not far from Perpignan and Le Boulou, the beach is popular with locals and holidaymakers alike and provides a friendly, fun atmosphere for families.

Boasting over six miles of golden sands, Argells-Plage has space for everyone. Although the busiest parts get crowded in summer, if you head north, you will find a beautiful undeveloped beach and plenty of peace and quiet. This part of the beach backs onto woodland, which provides a scenic backdrop and shade from the scorching sun on the hottest days. For those who like a little more development and entertainment on a day at the beach, the southern stretch has all the facilities you could possibly need. A children's funfair, an attractive promenade and parkland, this is the place to be if you want a fun, vibrant atmosphere.

If you are heading the northern, undeveloped part of the beach, it is a good idea to take plenty of food and water with you to last the day. There is a decent beach bar up here, but if you are planning to spend the day far from here, you will find facilities limited. If you are spending the day in the southern area, however, you will find all your needs more than adequately catered for. The beach has a wide variety of eateries, with cafes and restaurants galore. These can get very, very busy during the summer months so it is a good idea to plan on lunching a little earlier or later than the masses if you want to get back to the beach as quickly as possible.

Water-sports are not, surprisingly, very popular along this huge stretch of sand and you will find activities to cater to all tastes and levels of competence. As well as the usual pedaloes and kayaks, you will find sailing, jet-skiing, parascending and diving.

If you are having a laid-back holiday in one of the quiet, rustic gites in Languedoc, spending a day or two at Argells-Plage is the perfect way to inject a bit of activity into your trip. Adults and kids alike will love the abundance of choice in eating establishments, activities and water-sports on offer.