France
Les Coussoules is a legendary spot for lovers of strong winds and endless spaces. Located between La Franqui and Port-la-Nouvelle, it stretches over several kilometers of wild beach lined with dunes. Here, the Tramontane blows unobstructed, creating a spectacular playground for independent riders. The spot is raw, powerful, and sublime: it is the kingdom of freeride, speed run, and big air. The atmosphere is 100% nature — sand, wind, and turquoise water as far as the eye can see.
The wind data shown here comes from ERA5 (via Open-Meteo) over 4 years, reprocessed to reflect realistic conditions.
👉 Average wind has been calibrated to avoid the usual underestimation of models.
👉 Gusts have been corrected by a median ratio to avoid unrealistic extreme values.
👉 Each day is summarized by the median wind (P50) observed during useful hours (8am–8pm), then classified into wind ranges.
👉 The weighted mode mixes average wind and gusts to best reflect felt wind.
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flatThe dominant wind from northwest (Tramontane) blows side-offshore at Les Coussoules, making the spot technical but exceptional. The water is flat to slightly choppy depending on wind strength. The beach is gigantic and completely clear, ideal for launches. In sea wind (southeast), the water becomes onshore and more comfortable, but much rarer. This spot is a paradise for experienced riders seeking speed and the power of free wind. The downwinds between La Franqui and Les Coussoules are legendary.
Northwest wind (Tramontane) between 25 and 40 knots. Ideal orientation for speed, freeride, and committed jumps.
Water conditions are flat to choppy under Tramontane, wavy under sea wind. The bottom is sandy, with no obstacles or rocks. On days of strong wind, the surface is covered with spectacular spray — a true marine desert backdrop. Physical but exhilarating navigation.
Weak currents but present depending on wind strength and tide. Light drift to the south under strong Tramontane. The spot remains generally safe, but one must manage their distance from the shore.
Riders generally use 5 to 8 m². In calmer conditions, 9–10 m² are usable. In strong Tramontane, a 6 m² is more than enough.
The Tramontane blows strong, between 20 and 45 knots, often in dry but stable gusts. The side-offshore orientation requires independence but offers laminar and clean wind, perfect for speed and big air. The sea wind (E/SE) brings softer, side-onshore sessions with small waves. This is a prime strong wind spot.
Dry and windy Mediterranean climate. Almost permanent sunshine and wind present all year round. Temperatures range between 10°C in winter and 30°C in summer. The ideal period extends from March to November, with exceptional wind consistency. The dry air and brightness make the sessions unforgettable.
Between 0.5 and 2.5 meters depending on the tide. Sandy and uniform bottom.
Between 13°C and 23°C depending on the season. Shorty possible from May to September, 4/3 mm wetsuit the rest of the year.
