Sete

We took the bus to the island of Sete (known as the Venice of southern France). The road between Marseillan and Sete is rapidly being built up with hideous looking amusement, camping, and other touristy places. Bamboo is everywhere, seemingly to shield the grape vines from the wind. Entry into the town is equally horrid, but once in the middle of the town, it isn't as bad. There is an old town area and the docks where the tuna boats moor. But not quite a Venice.
There are boat jousting tournaments in the summer. Before the tournament begins the jousters parade accompanied by an oboist and a drummer playing the traditional jousting tune. The music encourages the jousters and oarsmen while jousting. A first pass of honor opens the tournament. The jousters shake hands holding their spears vertically when their boats cross. Then perched on the boat platform ("tintaine"), their chest protected by their shield, they prod their opponent with an iron tipped wooden spear, with the aim of making their opponent fall over board.

Need some gondolas!

The view down to the tuna boats.

New in town, sailor? Paddy cap and sandals, I'm set!

This is definitely the working part of the docks. 

Looks like it should have a wind-up key.

Oops, spelled Marshal wrong. Unless they are talking about a family named Marshall.

Notice that the cat is OUTSIDE of the wire mesh.

Cool hexagonal building in one of the parks.

Don't pee on the electrical box!

One of the nicer buildings in Sete.


I wasn't too impressed with Sete, although it is still winter and the grey skies and lack of foliage didn't help much. We are waiting for one more bike to arrive (from the owner of the place we are renting) so that we can venture away from Marseillan without need of a bus. Should be here by next weekend, then we plan on plundering the vineyards nearby. Miss you all my friends!


Peace