Through Manon Haddouche
Published on 10 Feb 21 at 21:39
updated on 10 Feb 21 at 21:40
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In the top three favorite destinations for the French, the Hérault of the sea, rivers and lakes, is an invitation to water sports. They are practiced here, all year round, everywhere on the territory. Between coastline, lagoon plans, lakes and rivers, the Hérault 12 different water activities.
For salt water lovers
For sailing alone, the largest in terms of license holders, the Departmental Federation now has 5,600 members. Among them, fans of dinghy sailing (optimists or dinghies), habitables, windsurfing and also kite surfing of which the Hérault is the cradle. They coexist with paddle boarding, aquatic walking or along the coast and practitioners of first aid and rescue at sea, a booming activity that counts nearly 3,400 licensees. “With 90 km of coastline and 23 ports, 8 of which are departmental, there is plenty to do,” notes Cathy Barbaza, sport and nature manager at Hérault Sport.
–Underwater sports
The Big Blue is just as suitable for underwater sports, the third federation with its 2250 license holders. They share the space between normal scuba diving and snorkeling.
“A lot of work is being carried out in consultation with environmental associations to ensure that these activities integrate as well as possible into the natural environment where they are carried out”
A lot of work is carried out in consultation with environmental associations to ensure that these activities integrate as well as possible into the natural environment where they are carried out.
The divers themselves are invited to play the role of sentinel on changes in the aquatic environment.
In fresh water
The lakes, including the emblematic Salagou, the Saut de Vesoles, the Raviège or the Jouarres lake at the end of the Minervois, are not to be outdone. Windsurfing or paddle boarding clubs thus radiate throughout the department. The Orb, Hérault and Vidourle rivers, like the rivers, allow you to indulge in canoeing or rowing.
In Gignac, a team of seniors paddles every Friday morning on the Hérault river. Fun sessions combining sport, health and conviviality. A long blue canoe slips quietly among herons, kites and bee-eaters. On board, nine seniors paddle in rhythm. The smile on the lips.
–A physical activity that forges links
“It’s very calming to be on the water,” comments Walbert, one of Gignac’s teammates. We meet dozens of different bird species, turtles, dragonflies… ”. Fondue running, Yolande joined the boat out of friendship: “A few years ago, the Gignac club opened a“ Dragon Ladies ”section, to help women with breast cancer to be cured and reduced. the risk of recurrence. Then, the crew was expanded with friends, neighbors… Today, we are a team of men and women, between 62 and 80 years old. The practice of an adapted physical activity allows us to delay the effects of aging and to stay in good health. “
At the back of the boat, the President of the club, Richard, ensures the synchronization of movements … and the good atmosphere! “We don’t train for the Olympic Games, but for the pleasure of learning and moving forward together!”. In addition to training at the Barrage de la Meuse, in Gignac, the group often meets for friendly outings, with picnics, to the Lac du Salagou or the Etang de Thau.
All the federations, aware of the environment, are responsible for promoting the flora and fauna of wetlands and their preservation to their audiences.
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