PRESS KIT - 2021 -

#oseznarbonne

CONTACT: Virginie SIRE - Vice Director / Press and Promotion Supervisor v.sire@mairie-.fr - Mobil +(33)6 37 56 94 19 1 Dive into the Horreum, to discover the mysterious past of roman times Narbo Enjoy the rich variety of local produce right on the food stands of the century Martius. Then wander in the streets of the medieval centre before enjoying a old market “Les Halles” and meet local coffee on the main square and do not winemakers who live their passion forget this year’s brand new Roman by making exceptional wines while Museum: Narbo Via! respecting both the tradition and the environment. This is Olivia’s thrill, passionate about local history. Véronique, fine locally based cuisine (Read p.3) specialist, will reveal its secrets to you. (Read p.17) 5 Good reasons Take a break on the to discover fine sandy beach of Narbonne-Plage Let yourself carried by this strong while the kids are Cers wind, on a kite-surf ride across Narbonne playing on the soft the lagoon of La Nautique. Mediterranean’s shore. by the team This is Thomas’ spot, outdoors This is the leisurely activities expert. advice of Mounir, in of Narbonne’s charge of Narbonne- (Read p.9) Plage ‘s Tourist Office. tourist office (Read p.13)

Dance to the music and enjoy the numerous events, taking place all year long, such as the “Barques en scène” festival.

Do it like Laetitia, our community manager, who never misses the chance to go out and have fun. (Read p.21) © Guilhem Laetitia

2 © c-deschamps-adt- HISTORY

3 A VERY SCHEDULED DAY IN THE VERY HISTORICAL CENTRE OF NARBONNE:

HAVE COFFEE ON THE MAIN SQUARE À 9am LA DOLCE VITA, LIKE THE ITALIANS DO STROLLING IN THE STREETS OF THE Nothing’s better than a good coffee to start the day, facing the majestic façade MEDIEVAL PART OF TOWN 10am of the Palace-Museum of the Archbishops: a medieval monument like no other. Make sure to take a peek at the remains of the Via Domitia, down in the centre On the other side of the Merchants’ Bridge « Le pont des marchants”, one of of the square, which says a lot about the prestigious past of Narbonne in the the only two inhabited bridges left in , is where you’ll find “Le quartier Roman times. de bourg”. This part of town was prosperous during the Middle Ages thanks to VISIT OF THE CATHEDRAL AND THE the cloth and wine trade. This area keeps the marks of its illustrious past with 11am its narrow streets typical of the medieval period and surprising façades such ARCHBISHOPS’ PLACE-MUSEUM as the façade of the house of the three nurses: “Maison des trois nourrices”. This monument as a whole is one of a kind. The Archbishops’ Palace-Museum and TASTING LOCAL PRODUCE AND TYPICAL WINES the Saint Just and Saint Pastor Cathedral embody the emblematic heritage of Narbonne. They contain numerous architectural, artistic and historical treasures: IN “LES HALLES” MARKET 1pm the art collections, the 14th c. cloister, the Cathedral’s treasure room. Temple of the hearty eaters, “Les Halles” is the meeting point a gourmet cannot overlook. Under a century-old structure of Baltard architectural style (1901) discover the rich variety of local produce: oysters, honey, olive GOING ALONG THE CANAL oil… and wine, of course! Open all year round with the possibility to eat on 2pm the spot until 2 pm. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, “Le Canal de la Robine” which connects to “Le Canal du Midi”, is the perfect place to go for a walk or a bike ride… or why not a boat ride? From there you will catch sight of the monuments of the historical VISIT THE NEW MUSEUM NARBO VIA centre, the facades of the prestigious hotels particulier from the 19th c., and seve- 3pm ral locks. If you feel like it, you can go across the natural reserves all the way down Located along the banks of the Robine Canal, this new museum is dedicated to the end of the canal and to the shore of the Mediterranean Sea. to the period of the Roman Empire. Narbo Via Museum houses a significant collection of more than 1300 pieces on an exhibition surface of 2600 SQM GOING SHOPPING IN THE STORES including remarkable mural paintings and a collection of 760 carved Roman funerary stone blocks. It bears witness of the rich past of Ancient Narbonne 5pm OF THE HISTORICAL CENTRE called Narbo Martius, first Roman colony founded in Gaulle in 118 BCE. Numerous shopkeepers and craftsmen offer their services and savoir-faire; in this beautiful setting of the historical centre, there is something to suit all tastes. Numerous events will give you the opportunity to get good bargains: APÉRO! AND DINNER ON THE summer and winter street sales, street markets and other special markets PROMENADE “LES BARQUES” 7pm (truffles, honey, organic...). End the day by relaxing on the terraces of the numerous cafés and ENJOY THE SHOW AT THE ARENA restaurants which you’ll find all along the promenade. Here’s the chance to experience a night out in Narbonne, to taste the local wines and local A night out at Narbonne Arena is the perfect way to end this long day on a high 4 cuisine in a festive and ideal atmosphere calling for conviviality. 9pm note. There is something to suite all tastes: Concerts, ballets, musicals, comedy shows and sports competitions. 4 © c-deschamps-adt-aude A journey through history

Narbonne was born in 118 BC when the Romans decided to settle on this strategic site. Narbo Martius became the first Roman colony outside of Italy. Narbonne as a dynamic port in ancient times was adorned with beautiful Roman public monuments. The only structures left from this period of great prosperity are the mysterious Horreum (underground galleries used as a storage facility) and the Via Domitia (Roman road linking Rome to the Iberic peninsula) on the town hall square. In the Middle-Ages the Archbishops’ Palace, the cloister and the gothic Cathedral Saint Just and Saint Pastor are built. They are the symbols of the religious power of the great prelates of Narbonne. In the 19th c. winegrowing took a leading place in the region’s economy. In spite of the Phylloxera crisis the region became the land of plenty for winegrowers. Landowners and traders got rich and had their sumptuous houses built along the canal de la Robine, which substituted for the Aude River at the end of the 17th c.

DID YOU KWOW?

ANCIENT NARBO MARTIUS’ RIVER PORT La Nautique, which is located on the lagoon area, was Narbonne’s main harbour during the Roman period. At that time it was the biggest port in Gaulle; when Narbo Martius was exchanging with ports across the whole Mediterranean sea including the famous port of Ostie in Rome where a mosaic picturing ships from Narbonne can be seen. Archaeological excavations have unearthed amphorae and other rare pieces such as a wooden anchor of an impressive size. More recently the remains of a luxurious villa as well as the remnants of a warehouse and the surface of an old road heading towards Narbonne were found. 5 NARBONNE : GRAND SITE D’

SAINT JUST AND SAINT PASTOR VIA DOMITIA GOTHIC CATHEDRAL A segment of this great antique road going from Fitted with the highest gothic choir in the south of Italy to Spain is visible on the town hall square. France, with a vault hight of 41 meters; this cathe- dral’s distinctive characteristic is that it has never been finished, which gives it a unique identity. It includes a surprising treasure room which contains remarkable LE PONT DES MARCHANTS artworks from the Carolingian to the modern period. The merchants’ bridge is one of two inhabited bridges in France. The other one is in Landerneau, THE ARCHBISHOPS’PALACE-MUSEUM Brittany. One of the two archiepiscopal monuments in France after the Popes’ Palace in Avignon. This emblematic monument gathers different architectural periods. SAINT PAUL BASILICA It was restored by Viollet-le -Duc and contains many One of the most ancient gothic churches in south treasures: medieval ceiling fresco, the spectacular of France. Do not miss the frog petrified in the “salle des synodes”, the panoramic view from the font. Gilles Aycelin’s Dungeon, and the art collections in- cluding an important orientalist paintings collection. CHARLES TRENET’S BIRTHPLACE Located on 13 avenue Charles Trenet is the child- LE CANAL DE LA ROBINE hood house of the famous French singer Charles Just as le canal du Midi, of which it is an extension, Trenet aka “Le fou chantant” (the singing loony). this construction of the 17th c. is a UNESCO world heritage site.

CONTACT : Direction du Patrimoine et des musées de la Ville de Narbonne Tél : +33 (0)4 68 90 26 38 - [email protected]

NARBO VIA THE HORREUM This new museum which was designed by Foster + These underground galleries, ancient times Partners firm is dedicated to the period of Ancient storage facility, are unique in Europe. Rome. It shows evidence of Ancient Narbonne’s rich www.narbovia.fr/accueil/visiter/visiter-horreum history. www.narbovia.fr © Arnaud Späni

LE SOMAIL THE ABBEY OF FONTFROIDE The Canal du Midi runs through this quiet hamlet A Cistercian jewel beautifully restored which which reveals a unique undamaged architectural en- welcomes 125 000 visitors each year. semble of the 17th c. www.fontfroide.com www.visit-lanarbonnaise.com/fr/le-somail- 6 canal-du-midi ©ibgfolio-adt-aude TOP TIPS WANT TO GO ON AN ADVENTURE? WHAT IF YOU BECAME A TREASURE HUNTER?

Given the great success of “The Matagot Treasure Hunt” a brand new paper chase is now available in Narbonne: “The Genie of the Amphora”! Be very careful of what you ask for should you come across a genie who will grant your wishes… it might not end so well! Open up this treasure hunt box-set, including enigmas, clues, maps and other quirky objects, and help young Roman Kevinus to travel back to his own time. Box-sets are sold for 15€ at the tourist information office in Narbonne, Narbonne- LE CLOS DE LA LOMBARDE: Plage and online: www.narbonne-tourisme.com/boutique RESIDENTIAL AREA OF ANCIENT INFO AT: Chasseurs de trésors NARBONNE [email protected] Phone: +33 (0)6 52 84 97 32 www.chasseurs-de-tresors.com An archaeological dig located 200 meters north of the historical center which has unearthed over the years the remains of a residential zone of the Ancient city. More interestingly, a group of constructions circumscribed by several streets has been found. Also, houses, thermal baths, an early Christian Basilica, etc… can be seen. Guided tours by appointment are offered all year round to discover this treasure of the 2nd half of the 1st c. BCE.

INFO AT: Culture and historical heritage department of Narbonne © Chasseurs de trésors Phone: +33 (0)4 68 90 26 38 - [email protected]

DO NOT MISS LE SOMAIL’S BOOKSHOP “LE TROUVE TOUT DU LIVRE

A walk through this hamlet, crossed by the canal du Midi, will reveal to you an authentic architecture of the 17th c. A real picturesque setting! The famous humpback bridge, the chapel, the canal’s guard house, the Inn, and the ice house. Do not forget to visit the impressive bookshop containing about 50 000 books, and to have a drink on one of the terraces by the canal.

Did you know…? that before 1780 when the Canal du Midi and the Robine Canal were finally connected together by the junction canal, both passengers and merchandise had to be transported in wooden carts across a distance of 7 km.

INFO AT: Le Somail Canal du Midi Information Center - 168 Allée de la Glacière - 11120 Saint Nazaire d’Aude Phone : +33 (0) 4 68 41 55 70 – [email protected] ©ibgfolio-adt-aude www.visit-lanarbonnaise.com/fr/l-somail-canal-du-midi 7 MUST SEE

THE OPENING OF THE OCCITANIE REGION’S NEW MUSEUM: NARBO VIA! Arnaud Späni © Narbo Via

Galerie lapidaire Upcoming is the opening of a new museum in Narbonne. A major hotspot for the understanding of the period of Ancient Rome, and a beautiful place where the implication of archaeological research is highlighted. Narbo Via will lend prestige to Narbo Martius, the old capital of the Narbonnaise province, of which only very few remains are left to see.

Designed by Foster + Partners firm, the architecture of the building combines simplicity and innovation. The facades made of stones, taken from local quarries, show horizontal layers which call to mind the archaeological stratigraphy, making this museum a link between the past and the future.

The permanent collection presented on a 2600 SQM exhibition surface includes more than a thousand pieces telling the story of the city of Narbo Martius at the time of the Roman Empire: societal organisation, architecture and town planning, economy and port activity, all highlighting the advances and findings of the ongoing archaeological research of the region. Marking the main axis of the building: a monumental wall composed of 760 stone blocks, mainly coming from Roman burial sites of the ancient city. Thanks to a new automated device yet unseen in a museum, this lapidary wall renders the memory and the monu- mentality of the Roman city. A 500 SQM space will also be dedicated to temporary exhibitions.

© CCJ L. Damelet Located along the banks of the Robine Canal, Narbo Via will be both an archaeological research centre of exception and a lively Statuette représentant un amour public space. endormi, marbre, Ier siècle de notre ère.

INFO AT: Cécile Lebreton | Public relations supervisor Narbo Via 50 av de - 11100 Narbonne cecile. [email protected] +33 (0)4 68 90 28 87 - www.narbovia.fr facebook.com/NarbViaOfficiel et instagram.com/narbo_via

NARBO VIA IN A NUTSHELL…

1st stone: November the 11th of 2015 1 laboratory for restoration and research, a storehouse and study rooms Permanent exhibition: 2600 SQM

Temporary exhibition: 500 SQM Also: pedagogical workshops, a restaurant, a gift-shop, gardens… Auditorium: 200 seats Arnaud Späni © Narbo Via

8 © Véronique Magne © Véronique

TREASURES OF NATURE

9 Wide Open Spaces

UNSUSPECTED TREASURES OF NATURE

Narbonne benefits from a dry and hot Mediterranean climate and a very good amount of sunshine. It is also a very windy area where the strong Tramontane and Cers winds often blow. Narbonne also benefits from a privileged geographical situation, enriched by the great diversity of the surrounding landscapes: the deep blue sea, great stretches of soft sandy beaches, coastal lakes, the foothills of the Corbières massif, garrigue scrublands, the massifs of La Clape and Fontfroide in addition to the Robine Canal (classified UNESCO world heritage)… Quiet enough to engage in many different outdoors activities all year round: sailing, kitesurfing, mountain biking...

DID YOU KNOW?

LITTLE CAMARGUE

Bulls and horses right in the middle of vast coastal wetlands? No you’re not dreaming, you are in Narbonne indeed. Located right in the centre of the Natural Regional Parc of la Narbonnaise, this area contains wetlands of great environment value, including la Manade de Tournebelle (Camargue bulls and horses farming) and the Grand Castelou domain (old farm property now open to the public), the starting point of numerous trails across the wetlands to go explore an exceptional fauna and flora. © Nomah

10 EXPLORE NEW AN EDUCATIONAL TRAIL TO DISCOVER SAINTE LUCIE NATURE RESERVE

LE CRENEAU NATUREL This jewel of nature is listed as an ecological preserve since 2009 under the direction of the Occitanie Region in partnership with the Aude Department. A coastal trail, which goes through Narbonne-Plage from Saint Pierre la mer all the way to It is supervised by the Regional Nature Reserve of La Narbonnaise and Gruissan, was created to explore the beauty of nature along the seaside. After the creation of the resort of Port-la-Nouvelle. Some parts, like the ancient salt marshes, a first trail dedicated to botany and geology in Les Exals, this second trail runs on a distance belong to the Department of Coast Conservation. The site is composed of of 2km across a wildlife area which shelters a remarkable natural heritage: salting wetlands, three entities: the island, the salt marshes and the Vieille-Nouvelle barrier listed flora, avifauna reproduction area... It is located in Narbonne-Plage, between parking du beach. It can be explored all year round by foot or bike. It is recommended, Languedoc and La Côte des Roses camping site, D332, route de Gruissan on the island, to stop at the Roc Saint-Antoine from which you will enjoy a panoramic view of the coastline. Ornithology enthusiasts will be delighted INFO AT: Sustainable development department of the city of Narbonne to observe a wide variety of birds all year round: Ring plovers, stilts, terns Phone: +33(0)4 68 90 30 27 - [email protected] (during the nesting season), sandpipers and egrets (over-wintering) and other migratory birds stopping along the way.

INFO AT: Port-la-Nouvelle Information Center 1 place Paul Valery 11210 Port-la-Nouvelle GIVE IT A TRY Phone : +33(0)4 68 48 00 51 www.visit-lanarbonnaise.com/fr/port-la-nouvelle A MARINE LIFE TREASURE MAP

This year a new paper chase called “Captain Game” will come to light in the port of Narbonne-Plage. The concept of this chase is to go look for clues with the help of a treasure map. The participants will find numbered wooden posts along the course which will help them to find their way. The goal of this paper chase is to raise awareness among the visitors about marine life biodiversity and to reveal the history of the harbor while observing the biohuts (fish nurseries) from the shore, keeping dry.

INFO AT : Club Subaquatique Narbonnais Base Navalia - 11100 Narbonne-Plage Phone : +33 (0)6 69 51 03 64

[email protected] ©GNT-claude-Cruells www.csn-narbonne.com 11 “ACCUEIL VELO” QUALITY LABEL

This label is a national brand which guaranties services and equipment of quality adapted to the specific needs of tourists riding along the cycle routes across France. Hotels, camping sites, guesthouses, restaurants, tourist sites and other service-providers members of the label commit to respecting quality standards aiming at providing improved services for cycle tourists.

The Information Center of Narbonne received the label in 2020 counting 17 certified service providers within the city of Narbonne to which are added 25 members in the villages of the conurbation; which adds up to 42 establishments that were granted the label in the wider area of Narbonne.

Totaling 142 members of the label, the Aude department is among the departments counting the most members. #lamediterraneeavelo | #canaldes2mersavelo

Narbonne Tourisme, [email protected] Phone : +33(0) 4 68 65 15 60 (dial 1) www.narbonne-tourisme.com/label-accueil-velo © c-deschamps-adt-aude

12 NARBONNE-PLAGE

13 A restful summer in a lazy mood…

Narbonne-Plage is a fine sandy beach stretching over a distance of 5 km alongside the peaceful Mediterranean. The beach resort is certified “Handiplage” and so provides an equipment making the beach accessible to all. Along the beach runs a pleasant promenade laid out with snack-bars, playgrounds, and shady areas: a heavenly place perfect for reverie, serenity, resting and having fun with the kids.

© Nomah Narbonne-Plage is also a neighbourhood offering numerous services to profit a population going from 2 500 inhabitants to more than 30 000 in the summer. The cinema “Espace Dominique Baudis” as well as the “Evasport” sports center are open all year long.

INFO AT: Narbonne-Plage Tourist Information Centre, avenue des Vacances 11100 Narbonne-Plage Phone : +33(0) 4 68 49 84 86 - [email protected]

DID YOU KNOW ?

The first villas of Narbonne-Plage were given away as lottery prizes! That was in the 1950’s when the mayor Louis Madaule had decided to create a beach resort on this vast dry coastal plain in order to attract tourists. For this purpose, big lotteries were organized and real villas built on the resort were given away. © Bernard Delmas - Ville de Narbonne

14 …or a fitness summer in a gliding mood to get your fill of sensations: sailing, gliding, swimming, Evasport fitness center… Do not miss the “Espace Beach” where fitness courses are taking place on the sea front and are hosted by a professional coach. The program of activities of Evasport fitness centre and « Espace Beach” will be posted on the following web- site: www.narbonne.fr

THE WIND VALLEY: PRECIOUS WIND ! JETXTRÊME : 12 KITE AND WINDSURF SPOTS Water sports centre offering Jet AROUND NARBONNE The wind is Narbonne’s trademark: Ski rides and other boat towed As a matter of fact, Narbonne gets its water activities supervised by Immersed in the great outdoors, pushed by the winds, enjoy the sensation of sunny weather and became a great professionals. Have your kids try the calmness and freedom. Several options are presented to you: which do you windsurf and kitesurf destination “Jet Kid”, a Jet Ski fit for kids from like better? The open sea or the coastal lake? Would you rather see the Cor- thanks to the wind. Here are the spots 4 to 8. bières or the Clape massif in the background? Which way would you like the to go to when the wind starts to blow! wind to take you? The Tram’ wind blows close to 200 days a year, depending MORE INFO : Départementale on its orientation and its strength one can choose accordingly among a dozen 332, 11100 NARBONNE-PLAGE ZEF CONTROL: different spots. The wind valley is a guaranty to be able to ride all year long! Phone +33(0) 6 22 43 72 93 Take your inspiration from Pierre and Marion Mortefon, brother and sister, Sand yachting, kayaking, Stand- https://www.jetxtreme11.com/ two local world champions. up paddling. MORE INFO : Créneau naturel 11100 NARBONNE-PLAGE THE MAIN WIND/KITESURF EVENTS: Phone +33 (0) 6 71 04 85 17 NARBONNE-PLAGE http://www.zefcontrol.com/ NAUTICAL BASE Introduction to sailing for all ages. Leucate’s “Mondial du Vent”: A windsurf historical reference where Sail racing, easy sailing along the the best world champions come to compete. ADDICTED 2 KITE: coast, full week training courses. among the biggest gatherings Kitesurf school located in Narbonne- Gruissan’s “Défi Wind” and “Défi Kite”: MORE INFO : in the windsurf game. Plage Base Nautique Navalia (Port) MORE INFO : 11100 NARBONNE-PLAGE La Palme’s “Prince of Speed”: speed records getting close to 100km/h. Départementale 332 Phone +33 (0) 7 68 82 24 81 11100 NARBONNE-PLAGE [email protected] - www.cnnp.fr Saint-Pierre-la-mer’s “Kiteboard Freestyle Juniors World Cup”, Phone +33(0) 6 71 17 08 06 and “kite Boarder Cross France Cup” https://addicted2kite.com/fr 15 The neighbouring beach resorts… A torrent of activities

PORT-LA-NOUVELLE SAINT-PIERRE-LA-MER LA PALME

A beach resort like no other, Port-la-Nouvelle A family friendly beach resort to come to for a rest- Here you’ll find a wild and authentic Mediterranean stands out thank’s to its red and white lighthouse ful vacation amongst protected nature reserves. landscape. Discover the beautiful Rouet beach af- which welcomes just as many fishing boats as The all year long outdoor market on the seafront ter a walk along the salt marsh and the lagoons. international tankers. The immense, 10km long, is the perfect hedonists’ meeting point. Forget The village of La Palme is also worth the trip for soft sandy beach surely thrills the tourists. Na- about the car and go for a hike to the heart of La its medieval heritage, and its gourmets’ top spots ture lovers (hikers, mountain bike riders) will Clape massif where you’ll find Le Gouffre de l’Oeil- such as “La Brasserie 5 bis”, and for the pleasant enjoy the wilderness of the Regional Nature Re- Doux, a tiny emerald green lake. Share moments fragrance of thyme and rosemary floating in the serve of Sainte Lucie. A special place which needs of fun testing the wakeboard cable-tow at “Glisse air and mixing with the invigorating salty breeze. to be protected absolutely! & Kite”, than end the day with a sunny break on a Along the hiking trail you’ll come across a beauti- terrace by the seafront. ful clear water wash house.

Port-la-Nouvelle Tourist Information Center 1 Place Paul Valéry, 11210 Port-la-Nouvelle Saint-Pierre-la-Mer Tourist Information Center La Palme Tourist Information Center Phone: +33(0) 4 68 48 14 81 5 bd de la Douane, 11560 Saint-Pierre-la-Mer Place de la République, 11130 La Palme [email protected] Phone : +33(0) 4 68 48 14 81 Phone: +33(0) 4 68 48 14 81 www.visit-lanarbonnaise.com/fr/port-la-nouvelle [email protected] [email protected] www.visit-lanarbonnaise.com/fr/saint-pierre-la-mer www.visit-lanarbonnaise.com/fr/la-palme

16 © GNT - Laurie Biral © Sandra Rossi © GNT-EmmanuelPerrin © La Table Saint Crescent © La Table SAVOIR-FAIRE

17 They pump up the region

THE BEST ROSÉ WINE OF THE WORLD IS FROM NARBONNE

After “Le Grand Vin Rouge » from Château l ’Hospitalet 2017 was elected best red wine of the world in 2019, it is now for the rosé wine “Le Clos du Temple 2019” to be elected in 2020 best rosé wine of the world! Two supreme distinctions for Gérard Bertrand’s Domaine de l’Hospitalet. Nested right in the middle of La Clape massif, this domain is a charming top-end wine tourism complex. The rooms and suites of the 3 stars hotel offer a perfect setting favouring relaxation and revitalising. On top of that, a heated swimming pool, tennis courts, a driving range, a shady park, hiking trails, guided tours dedicated to the discovery of the biodynamic process, wine tasting workshops, a boutique, etc.… Last but not least, in the restaurant “L’Art de Vivre”, Chef Laurent Chabert and his team work together to create a refined cuisine inspired by the seasons and the production of their vegetable patch and organic orchard and also with the complicity of local producers.

INFO AT: Château l’Hospitalet, route de Narbonne-Plage Phone : +33(0)4 68 45 28 50 - [email protected] www.chateau-hospitalet.com © Château l’Hospitalet

MAEKO, THE HOUSE OF JAPANESE FLORAL ART

Calmness and ease are keywords in the Maeko Design Boutique! The owner and designer Laura exhibits her Japanese-inspired universe with her plants and flowers arrangements, her Japanese-cloth art-work, as well as a selection of unique Japanese-style decorative objects. One can find fine tableware, handmade lamps and koinobori (lucky charm)… One can surely find all that is necessary to create floral arrangements in the best Japanese tradition. Also, instructive and creative workshops are programmed all year round, including workshops for kids.

INFO AT: MAEKO DESIGN, 3 rue du 1er mai Phone: +33(0) 6 81 76 82 90 - [email protected] - www.maekodesign.fr 18 © Grands Buffets

LES GRANDS BUFFETS: THE WORLD’S BIGGEST CHEESEBOARD IN A RESTAURANT, ON THE GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS!

This restaurant is a traditional French cuisine hotspot. It was founded 30 years ago and has become a top-end all you can eat buffet. The idea being to make the luxury of a renowned restaurant accessible to all by offering the most traditional French specialties on a self-serve buffet. Since January 2020, the restaurant holds the record of the “world’s biggest cheeseboard in a restaurant” which will appear in the Guinness World Records 2021 edition. Different projects have emerged by the end of 2020: An ice cream parlour inspired by the Café Pouchkine but also two new emblematic dishes of the traditional French fine cuisine: Canard au sang, and Lièvre à la Royale. In 2021 a golden salon dedicated to Jean de La Fontaine will be revealed.

INFO AT: Les Grands Buffets, Rond-point de la liberté - Phone : +33(0) 4 68 42 20 01 [email protected] - www.lesgrandsbuffets.com/fr

LIONEL GIRAUD: 2 STAR GASTRONOMY

By getting a second star at the Guide Michelin ceremony in January 2020, Lionel Giraud adds great value to the area of Narbonne on the map of world gastronomy. This hard worker, son of Claude Giraud who was also a Michelin 2 star chef, has succeeded in taking advantage of his love for excellence and of his passion for local produce. This year has been, in spite of all, particularly rich for this young chef who has just opened his brand new restaurant: “La Cave à Vin et à Manger”. This second restaurant gives prominence to a sharing type of cuisine, sophisticated and of regional inspiration. It is located within “La Maison Saint-Crescent” adjoining his first restaurant “La Table de Lionel”. The latter, is a 2 star restaurant offering a unique experience in a lovely setting revealing the beautiful vaults of an ancient monastery.

INFO AT: Maison Saint Crescent - 68 avenue Général-Leclerc

© La Table Saint Crescent © La Table [email protected] - https://maison.saintcrescent.com La Table de Lionel Giraud 2* - Phone : +33(0) 4 68 41 37 37 Cave à Vin et à Manger - Phone : +33(0) 4 68 45 67 85 19 Savoir-faire narbonnais…

ORGANIC AND HOME-MADE L’OULIBO’S OLIVES FROM GRANHOTA VINEGAR FROM BREWERY IN LA PALME BIZE-MINERVOIS

Discovering this brewery in La Palme is like Here we have the oldest cooperative of olive The region is well known for its very good wines, rediscovering the pleasure of the very first producers of the Aude department (1942) and one but with grapes and wine one can also make gulp of a cold beer. When one has a sip of wine, of the major savoir-faire tourist-attraction. The high quality vinegar! Since 2009, master vinegar one is transported to a special terroir amongst “Olive Tree Odyssey” guided tour tells the story maker Laurent Faure turns Languedoc wines the vineyards, which is always a pleasant of the cultivation of olive trees throughout the and grapes into subtle vinegars which thrill experience. When one has a taste of a new beer ages: including an educational olive grove, sound the greatest chefs. Balsamic vinegars, organic one goes to meet a brewer. It is specifically and light shows, a multimedia museography, flavored vinegars, and not to forget many other for these kinds of encounters that Delphine an introduction to olive oil tasting, and a local byproducts. That is what you’ll find when visiting Roulier, qualified oenologist from , produce shop. Do not leave without having a taste France’s biggest hand-crafted vinegar factory! decided to slightly change her course. of the “Lucques” variety, the very best! Vinaigrerie Granhota Brasserie 5 bis Oulibo 16 rue Béranger - 11110 Coursan 5 bis avenue de la Mer - 11480 La Palme Hameau de Cabezac - 11120 Bize-Minervois Phone: +33(0) 6 32 92 62 20 / +33(0) 4 68 58 30 58 Phone : +33(0) 6 48 29 14 19 Phone: +33(0) 4 68 41 88 88 [email protected] - www.granhota.com [email protected] [email protected] - www.loulibo.com www.brasserie5bis.com © DR © DR © DR 20 EVENTS

21 NARBONNE ARENA : OCCITANIE’S PRESTIGIOUS VENUE Since December 2019, Narbonne Arena fills the town with excitement by offering a rich program of famous French artists as well as performers from all over the world. The arena can host up to 4850 spectators (sitting/ standing) and is adjustable to different types of events: concerts, shows, sports competitions, business conventions... It is the favorite playground of our Volley ball team: The Narbonne Centurions. Such an innovative complex assuredly supports the development and attractiveness of Narbonne! Showcasing this year of 2021: Julien Doré, Swan Lake, Laurent Gerra, Disney en concert…

LES CHEVALIERS DU Les bodin’s MARIE S’INFILTRE CASSE NOISETTE FRANCECONCERTGOSPEL POUR 100 THE ROCKET MAN FIEL 05.12.2020 16&17.01.2021 29.01.2021 31.01.2021 VOIXprésente 06.02.2021 12.02.2021

ARNAUD TSAMERE Messmer ines Reg LE LAC DES CYGNES DISNEY EN CONCERT ANNE ROUMANOFF 25.02.2021 17.03.21 20.03.2021 01.04.2021 04.04.2021 10.04.2021

Billetterie en vente sur narbonne-arena.fr INDIGO PRODUCTIONS PRÉSENTE aGE TENDRE eva dans les points de vente habituels EAU le NOUV23.05.2021E 29.05.2021 programme SPECTACL

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IRISH CELTIC ALBAN IVANOV JULIEN DORE BUNBALLET HAY et ORCHESTRE MEAN VERONIC DICAIRE Vianney Licences 2 et 3 : 1068465 - 1068464 04.06.2021 07.11.2021 13.11.2021 OPÉRA20.11.2021 NATIONAL de RUSSIE 03.12.2021 16.12.2021 Philippe Fretault & Quentin Tricoire - Philippe Fretault & Quentin Tricoire Photos :

Nouveau Nouveau NUMÉRO DE LICENCE : L-2/1119861 / ©ALEX DIAZ / SPANIARD STUDIO / ©ALEX DIAZ SPANIARD NUMÉRO DE LICENCE : L-2/1119861

RÉSERVATIONS SUR FLORENTPAGNY.FR Laurent Gerra CARMINA BURANA ELODIE POUX FLORENTET POINTSPAGNY DE VENTE HABITUELS KENDJI GIRAC THE RABEATS 17.12.2021 21.12.2021 29.01.2022 16.02.2022 13.03.2022 19.03.2022

22 DE BOURGIES : STÉPHANE PHOTO LIC. 2-1066729

FNAC, CARREFOUR, GÉANT, MAGASINS U, AUCHAN, E.LECLERC ET POINTS DE VENTE HABITUELS FNAC.COM, TICKETMASTER.FR, TSPROD.COM

40x60 Gerra Dates.indd 5 05/12/2017 16:30 Dates sous réserve de la crise sanitaire actuelle CALENDAR OF EVENTS

! Narbonne offers major entertainment events for each season! Given the current health crisis, this year’s program will be revealed in real time.

SPRING « ELIZIK » FESTIVAL FALL A major crossroads of musical cultures, Elizik’ offers “MA VIGNE EN MUSIQUE” FESTIVAL a program of free concerts within the historical monu- LES SENTIERS GOURMANDS D’AUTOMNE A peculiar walk & dine experience will take you walking Classical music recitals given in distinct places like ments of Narbonne. historical monuments and vineyards. by night around the very center of Narbonne and dining on several different stop-offs within various historical THE FONTFROIDE ABBEY FESTIVAL « LES NATUR’AILES » monuments exceptionally open for the occasion. On the menu: local dishes and local wine. International Kite Festival, winner of the title ‘‘Most « MUSIQUE ET HISTOIRE » Created by the famous musician Jordi Savall, this festival Beautiful Kite Festival 2018’’, awarded by Addict is one of the major classical music events of the summer. WINTER Kite Magazine. It takes place in the beautiful setting of the Fontfroide CHRISTMAS EXTRAGAVANZA Abbey. LES SENTIERS GOURMANDS All through the month of December, a magical atmosphere What better than to enjoy a 6km hike in the great settles in the historical center of Narbonne with numerous landscapes of La Clape to discover local wines and local « MUSIQUES AU PRÉSENT » FESTIVAL attractions: Christmas market, parades, funfair, ice rink, cuisine? Wine makers, of La Clape designation, teaming This modern music festival is an invitation to discovering Games’ Palace… and not to miss the grand 24th of December with local chefs prepare gourmet stop-offs for you hungry and experimenting today’s music through the program Christmas parade! and thirsty hikers. of several free performances. The opportunity to disco- ver exciting, amazing, dazzling artists! « NEXT: NARBONNE EXTREME TOUR » Also do not miss: the waiters’ race, wine tastings, Extreme sports festival: spectacular riders’ runs and « JAZZ À L’HOSPITALET » FESTIVAL concerts, DJ nights, water games, musical naps, demonstrations, graffiti artists, dancers... Famous artists of all kinds show up every year to de- outdoor movie projections... monstrate their talent on the prestigious stage of a wine SUMMER estate nestled in the heart of La Clape. FESTIVAL NATIONAL DE THÉÂTRE AMATEUR All events on: « BARQUES EN SCENE » FESTIVAL www.narbonne-tourisme.com One of the biggest events dedicated to amateur Highlight of the summer season the «Barques en Scène» theater. Each year, many companies showcase their festival is the event you must not miss! plays for free in the fabulous setting of la cour de la Madeleine, in the heart of the Archbishops’ Palace. 23 NARBONNE BY FOOT, BIKE OR ON HORSEBACK! NARBONNE-PLAGE FROM A DIFFERENT ANGLE Be it by foot walking on the promenade “Les Barques” Another sunny day coming ahead and the kids don’t want or “Cours Mirabeau” in the to spend this one bathing in the sun? It’s time to enjoy the very historical centre, on a vacation in a more… active way! bike ride along the canal or on horseback amongst clear and salted water… These are INHALE - EXALS! experiences to be enjoyed to the fullest. Off to the Exals’ botanical trail: just a 10 minute walk from the harbour of Narbonne-Plage and the view is already exotic! We follow the 3km trail located at the foot of La Clape massif and we admire the exceptional flora all along the trail composed of different varieties just as rare as they are abundant. The LET’S GO kids had fun reading the identification labels in order to spot the different living fossils and flowers along the trail. We end FOR A WALK… this little walk with a picnic by the Exals coastal lake. Discovering or rediscovering Nar- bonne can be done by just taking a walk on the “Barques” or “Cours KID PADDLE Mirabeau” promenade along the Ro- bine canal. Do not miss out on the Now that we are full, next stop: “Créneau Naturel” beach for a XXL souvenir, go and take a selfie paddle session at Zef Control. Our instructors Frank and Jacques with our free selfie camera. teach us SUPaddling on the sand: how to hold the paddle, where to put our feet on the board, while the sand yachts stream all around in the background. We finally decide to go out in the water, kids have a hard time at first but they get the hang of it after a few hilarious falls. Stand Up paddling provides a surprising feeling of freedom, almost like walking on water. After an hour ride and a few plunges to cool down, we decide to get back onto dryland, thrilled by the experience… sore muscles guaranteed.

24 TO EACH HIS OWN HOBBYHORSE! NARBONNE & FONTFROIDE, OFF TO EXPLORE THE DEPTHS Within an authentic setting, just as OF HISTORY! wild as it is natural, you will enjoy a pleasant horseback ride in a friendly Here we finally are in Narbonne, this town that atmosphere: a piece of Camargue I had often noticed from the highway without to be discovered! In La Manade de ever making a stop… Tournebelle, a Camargue horses First visit of this beautiful day: diving into a 1000 and bulls breeding farm, you will years of history while exploring Fontfroide, its meet your attentive and available abbey and its wild surroundings. Ready to live a guides: Aude and Mathilde. And timeless experience. off we go! How easy it is to hop on our horsey friend, in communion with nature. Wow, it feels like we are at the ends of the earth!

LES CORBIERES’ CISTERCIAN JEWEL NARBONNE Amongst the vineyards this sumptuous abbey is nested in a beautiful BY BIKE… verdant space. Inside, it feels like time has stopped… Our engaging and passionate guide Olivia takes us in an authentic atmosphere, serene and Why not opt for a trip around spiritual. This Cistercian master piece of more than a 1000 years old has Narbonne in another just as preserved its soul. ecological way? Off to the In the gardens a few statues, here and there, catch our eye inviting us to bike rental Languedoc VTT contemplate the calmness of this place. The little promenade is delightful Evasion. Hugo welcomes and the view of the Abbey and the surroundings is you with a smile and good inspiring. advice. Fitted out and all ready to go, you can start your trip on the towpath THE NAME OF THE ROSE along the canal all the way to the Mandirac lock! With 2500 rose bushes and 16 different colorings this rose garden is among the biggest in south of France. It was created in the beginning of the 20th century and was originally a vegetable garden and the monks’ old cemetery. The perfect period to visit is between May and September.

Find all the addresses of our experiences on our web site: www.narbonne-tourisme.com/experiences-vivre 25 Key figures 55.375 70 000 ha OF PROTECTED NATURE INHABITANTS INSEE 2020 +5% IN 5 YEARS 1.2 million 2 500 ans VISITORS/YEAR D’HISTOIRE 170 km² MUSEUMS (Archbishops’ 5 km 3 SURFACE AREA OF FINE Palace-Museum, Narbo Via) in- (the equivalent of the cluding 1 celebrity house (the department of Hauts-de-Seine) SANDY birthplace of Charles Trenet) BEACH

1 UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE MONUMENT: the canal de la robine

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Access map

CAR: TRAIN: Montpellier : 1 hr Montpellier : 1 hr : 1.5 hrs Toulouse : 1.25 hrs Barcelona : 3 hrs Barcelona : 2 hrs Paris : 8 hrs Paris : 4.5 hrs 27 Madrid : 5.25 hrs Category 1 31, rue Jean Jaurès F-11100 Narbonne Phone +33 (0)4 68 65 15 60

[email protected] www.narbonne-tourisme.com @narbonnetourisme @otnarbonne @narbonnetourisme © 2021 Direction de la communication Ville Narbonne - Photos : Laetitia Guilhem, Delmas Bernard Photos couverture : © c-deschamps-adt-aude, Delmas Bernard Photos quatrième de couverture : © c-deschamps-adt-aude,

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