Perhaps best known for its wineries, particularly for the varietal known as Banyuls, Banyuls-sur-Mer is a scenic destination that lies far from the beaten path, but which offers some outstanding rewards to divers who decide to make the trip. There are many named dive sites available here, along with several secret spots known only to local dive operators; and with the abundant marine life and intriguing geology this region boasts, it’s not surprising that it is a favorite with underwater photographers. Come along as we enjoy a look at just a few of the numerous dive sites Banyuls-sur-Mer has to offer.
Les Tinyes - France Dive Sites
A trio of islets come together to create a submerged bay at Les Tinyes; diving here is very much like diving in a huge, natural aquarium. Stunning coral-covered blocks and steep canyons, deep crevices, and rubble-strewn bottom topography offer crabs, lobsters, and other small sea creatures shelter from larger predators. Big groupers, pompano, wolf fish, black cobs and loads of sea bream rub fins with ballan wrasse, damsels, and many other fish. Maximum depth is 23 meters, and visibility is usually between 15 and 25 meters.
Cap l’Aeille Nord - France Dive Sites
Accessible only by boat, Cap l’Aeille Nord is located just 2.8 kilometers from shore. Here, a slope gently descends to a depth of 8 meters; massive rocky blocks averaging a meter across are strewn here and there, creating hiding places for octopuses, eels, and other marine life. The slope continues on to a depth of 14 meters, then on to 18 meters, with steep wall-like sections along the way where prolific coral and sponge have taken hold. While it is possible to head to a depth of 22 meters, the majority of color as well as the thickest saturation of life is located up in the shallows where the water is a bit warmer. Bring your camera; the black corbs, groupers, wrasse, and other creatures that live here contrast beautifully with the bright orange gorgonians that are so prominently featured throughout the site.
Sec d’Ivan - France Dive Sites
One of the most stunning dive sites Banyuls-sur-Mer has to offer, and also one of the more challenging ones, Sec d’Ivan features maximum depth at 38 meters, though there is plenty to see at shallower depths. A gentle slope here gives way to a wall where orange gorgonians, beautiful white anemones, and stunning red and yellow corals burst forth from grottoes and cracks that shelter octopuses, eels, and all sorts of crustaceans, fish, and invertebrates. The main challenge here lies in avoiding ghost nets which have unfortunately been left behind by fishermen; it is important to pay close attention to your surroundings, carry a sharp knife, and be prepared to free yourself from potential entanglement. Visibility varies greatly here; it is between 10 and 35 meters.
Banyuls-sur-Mer has an intriguing maritime history that includes plenty of organized smuggling of goods both to and from Spain during wartime; visit the local museum to gain insight into this activity, if you like. Wine lovers will enjoy the quality white, red, and rose wines the area’s producers are famous for, along with the delectable cuisine and the fantastic hospitality that makes this place so welcoming. Last but not least, local dive operators are well-equipped and knowledgeable, making Banyuls-sur-Mer a place you might find yourself visiting more than once.