House of the Sea, Les Glénans

This is the southernmost base of Les Glénans, France's legendary sailing school founded in 1901, tucked along the Canal du Midi on the Thau Lagoon. You actually arrive by boat — park up, and they come to collect you and your luggage, which sets the tone immediately. Open March through November, they teach sailing to all levels and don't go easy on you whether you're a kid or an adult — expect real instruction, not a leisure cruise.