Le Barreur Authentic House, La Pointe Courte, clim

Barrio

The La Pointe Courte district in Sète, characterised by its unique fishing village atmosphere, is a real gem of the town. This neighbourhood, set apart from the town centre, charms visitors with its picturesque character and peaceful atmosphere. The history of this place dates back to the mid-19th century, when land reclamation work linked to the arrival of the railway in Sète created this area on the edge of the Étang de Thau, which was quickly taken over by fishermen to set up their huts. The La Pointe Courte district is a world apart, a ‘village within the city’, where colourful houses, labyrinthine alleyways and fishing nets drying along the quays offer an immersive experience of Sète’s maritime life. The locals, known as ‘pointus’, have forged a strong and endearing identity, reflected in the evocative names of streets such as Traversée des Jouteurs, Rameurs or Rue de la Pétanque. This neighbourhood carefully preserves its traces of the past, with its fishermen’s huts and an atmosphere steeped in history. It is best explored on foot, allowing you to respect the peace of its residents and savour the tranquillity that reigns there. Walkers are invited to respect this peaceful environment and immerse themselves in the soul of this quintessential place. The La Pointe Courte neighbourhood is also a major fishing spot, particularly during the sea bream season in October, when hundreds of fishermen gather along the canal. Opposite, on the other side, lies the marine biology station, a testament to the importance of marine research in Sète. La Pointe Courte’s reputation has been enhanced by the cinema, particularly thanks to Agnès Varda’s eponymous film, which captured the very essence of this neighbourhood. The filmmaker, who has a strong personal connection to this place, helped to highlight its charm and authenticity. In short, the La Pointe Courte district in Sète is a place where history, culture and maritime life intertwine in a fascinating way. It is a must-visit for anyone wishing to discover a more intimate and authentic side of Sète, far from the hustle and bustle of the town centre.