Leucate is legendary for the Tramontane, a fierce, cold wind that blows from the northwest (offshore) towards the Mediterranean. It accelerates through the valleys of the Pyrenees, often reaching 40-50 knots. The spot consists of a massive coastal lagoon (Etang de Leucate) and the open sea.
The lagoon is shallow (waist to chest deep in many places), making it safe despite the strong offshore winds. It is a speed sailing paradise.
Detailed Wind & Conditions Chart
| Month | Wind Days | Avg Wind Speed | Air Temp | Water Temp | Wetsuit | Conditions | Crowd Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| March | 15-20 days | 20-35 kts | 14°C | 12°C | 5/4mm | Strong | Low |
| April | 20-25 days | 20-40 kts | 16°C | 14°C | 4/3mm | Very Strong | High |
| May | 18-22 days | 20-35 kts | 20°C | 16°C | 4/3mm | Strong | High |
| June | 15-20 days | 15-30 kts | 25°C | 19°C | 3/2mm | Moderate | Medium |
| July | 15-18 days | 15-25 kts | 28°C | 22°C | Shorty | Thermal | High |
| August | 15-18 days | 15-25 kts | 29°C | 23°C | Shorty | Thermal | High |
| September | 15-20 days | 18-30 kts | 24°C | 20°C | 3/2mm | Strong | Medium |
| October | 18-22 days | 20-35 kts | 18°C | 18°C | 4/3mm | Strong | Medium |
| November | 15-18 days | 20-40 kts | 14°C | 15°C | 5/4mm | Storm | Low |
Data compiled from Windguru and Windfinder historical statistics.
Primary Spots
Le Goulet (The Lagoon)
The most popular spot on the lake. Located near the Wesh Center. Flat water, waist-deep. The wind is offshore but you are enclosed in the lake. Hazard: Oyster beds (parcs à huîtres). They are marked with wooden stakes. Do not foil near them; they will destroy your foil and you.
La Franqui (Sea Side)
Home of the "Mondial du Vent" competition. When the Tramontane blows, the water is perfectly flat close to the beach because the wind is directly offshore. Speed runs are insane here. Safety: Offshore wind on the open sea. Rescue boat cover is essential if you are not an expert.
Les Coussoules
Just north of La Franqui. Huge sandy beach, land sailing spot, and great for wingfoiling in Tramontane.
Alternative Spots
Eole (Barcarès)
Southern end of the lake. Good access, similar conditions to Le Goulet but sometimes less crowded.
Canet-en-Roussillon
20 minutes south. Works well in Marin (SE wind) which brings waves and onshore conditions.
Best Time to Visit
Optimal: April (Mondial du Vent event) and October. Strongest winds. Summer: June-August offers lighter thermal winds (15-20 knots) and warmer water, great for learning but less "hardcore."
Gear Strategy
Small Wings. The Tramontane is dense and strong. A 3m or 3.5m wing is essential for high-wind days. A 5m will get you overpowered quickly. Mast Length: 75cm-85cm is fine. The lake is deep enough in the sailing channels, but be careful near the edges.
Accommodation & Dining
Camping
- Camping Mer Sable Soleil: Near the beach. €25-45/night.
- Camping Le Fun: On the lagoon side. €20-40/night.
Hotels
- Hotel 19-21: Modern hotel in the village. €90-140/night. Visit Hotel 19-21
- Rev'Hotel: Simple, clean, near the spots. €60-90/night.
Dining
- Wesh Center Crew: The coolest spot. Burgers, beers, sunset views over the lagoon. Run by windsurfing legend Julien Taboulet.
- Le Bleu: Seafood restaurant in La Franqui.
- Biquet Plage: Trendy beach club, great food but pricey.
Schools & Rentals
Full-Service Centers
- Wesh Center Crew: The hub of Leucate wind culture. Lessons and rentals. Great vibe. Visit Wesh Center
- Chinook Leucate: Massive surf shop (one of the biggest in Europe) with a rental center. They have everything. Visit Chinook
- Cercle de Voile du Cap Leucate: Traditional sailing school, offers wing lessons. Visit CVCL
Travel Logistics
Getting There:
- Perpignan Airport (PGF): 25 mins drive.
- Montpellier Airport (MPL): 1h15 drive.
- Barcelona (BCN): 2h30 drive (often the best international flight option).
Transport:
- Car is mandatory. The spots are spread out and public transport is limited.
Local Rules & Etiquette
- Oyster Beds: STRICTLY PROHIBITED. Stay 50m away.
- Speed: Leucate is a speed spot. Look over your shoulder before turning. Riders can approach at 30+ knots.
- Parking: Height barriers (2m) are common at beach car parks to stop campervans.
Resources
- Leucate Tourist Office Webcams - Multiple views including La Franqui
- Viewsurf La Franqui - Live beach cam
- Mondial du Vent - Event info
- Leucate Tourism
- Windguru Leucate