Wingfoil spot Occitanie: Wingfoil Montpellier (Etang du Ponant)

Etang du Ponent, located near Montpellier, is known as the go-to destination for wingfoiling in the region. Whether you’re looking to start your wingfoiling life, make progress, or enjoy a family outing, this spot has everything you need for a perfect day on the water. Etang du Ponent boasts a variety of wind conditions, making it a versatile spot for riders of all levels. The South West thermal winds in the summer provide a gentle breeze ranging from 10 to 18 knots, ideal for beginners and relaxed rides. The South East wind, though a bit more irregular, can offer exhilarating conditions up to 30 knots for those seeking a challenge. The Tramontane wind, coming from the North West, offers excellent conditions as well. However, caution is advised with the Mistral winds (North to North East) as they can push riders to the back of the lake, potentially leading to a swim back.

Wingfoil Montpellier (Etang du Ponant)

Recent coastal protection works have reduced parking availability to about 45 to 50 cars, so arriving early with a picnic is recommended. Additional parking along the road is an option, though care should be taken when exiting vehicles.

An on-site school offers both lessons and equipment rentals, making it easy for visitors to get into the water regardless of their experience level. Whether you’re gliding over the calm waters or navigating the stronger breezes, Etang du Ponent in Montpellier presents an idyllic setting for a day of wingfoiling and more, surrounded by the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of the region.

The spot works well in strong South-East wind and North-West wind. From the South-East, the wind accelerates over the pond. In northerly winds (Mistral), it is windy and therefore impassable. In summer, from the beginning of the afternoon, a small thermal of around 15 knots from the South/South-West works very well. This spot is also a fallback spot when the spots along the coast are crowded with tourists. For foiling, the water drops very quickly to a depth of 2 meters less than 50 meters from the edge. You have to be careful in summer with the large number of boats on the pond. You must also be careful about theft, do not leave anything visible in your car.