Kitesurfing in Beauduc

Driving on the sandy track through the salt flats in this remote part of the Camargue, you’re so off the beaten track you can almost hear the Laurence of Arabia soundtrack playing. The wide horizon forms a backdrop to a fragile ecosystem of wetlands and sand dunes with the Camargue’s famous flamingos and wild horses roaming free.

The huge crescent-shaped beach is 17 km drive from the town of Salins-de-Giraud. That’s your last port of call for supplies, so if you’re camping out, make sure you stock up at the Spar or Intermarché before you set off. The road is very narrow in places and nearer the beach it becomes not much more than a sandy track. The sand is hard-packed though and you don’t need four-wheel drive. You can park up at the water’s edge.

The Kitesurfing

Beauduc’s u-shaped bay, reliable south-westerly thermal and consistent northerly Mistral means you can kite in almost any wind direction. Only a straight easterly blows directly off-shore. Low lying land across the salt flats means the wind is uninterrupted and not too gusty. The Mistral blows cross-shore and will kick up some small waves if it’s blowing with enough force, which it often is. The best time of year is between April and October with the peak months being June and July. There are no man-made structures at the beach, so your only hazards are parked cars, and other kitesurfers; despite the huge stretch of sand it can get surprisingly crowded on a windy day in July.

Kitesurfing Accommodation

You can camp on the beach, and as the Med isn’t tidal, there’s no risk to being flooded out, unless a south-westerly wind blows with gusto. Beauduc is a natural reserve, and you’re not allowed to camp in the dunes behind the beach so it’s not a bad idea to bring a wind breaker. You used to be able to drive down onto the beach or strategically position your tent behind a campervan, but not anymore. If you’re not up for pitching a tent, there’s a few places to stay back in Salins-de-Giraud that are well used to welcoming kitesurfers.

Here’s a few recommendations for places to stay near the kitesurfing in Beauduc:

Un Nid en Camargue – Salin-de-Giraud

From 70 € per night

Located in Salin-de-Giraud, the nearest town to Beauduc, Un Nid en Camargue offers comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation. There’s a nice garden with plenty of space for drying kites and free Wi-Fi is available throughout. There are restaurants within walking distance.

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Hotel Restaurant La Camargue – Salin-de-Giraud

From 60 € per night

Located on Boulevard de la Camargue in Salin-de-Giraud, Hotel Restaurant La Camargue offers clean and comfortable rooms and unique (bizarre) decor. The on-site restaurant serves up tasty local dishes with lots of seafood options and the decent breakfast will set you up for the day.

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