Navigate the French Atlantic coast: Complete Guide
The Atlantic coast of France is one of the most renowned navigation destinations in the world. Although this can represent a challenge for inexperienced browsers, the Atlantic coast offers some of the natural ports And estuaries The most magnificent.
Unlike the Mediterranean coast, the Atlantic coast is better suited to those looking for theadventure Rather than those who are just looking for a relaxing boat vacation. This region can present dangers in certain places and does not offer as many marinas and ports as the Côte d'Azur. Depending on the season, Winds and tidal currents can be quite strong.
The navigation season on the Atlantic coast of France extends from May to October. During the winter, the winds are too strong and the temperature is too low, so it is preferable to visit during the summer when the temperature is higher and the sea calm.
The whole region offers a mixture of tourist attractions, historical buildings, magnificent natural views and incredible cuisine. Some big cities as Nantes And Bordeaux There are a few tens of kilometers from the coast, you could consider a short visit to the interior of the lands of France while you are nearby. To visit the entire Atlantic coast, you will need at least 4 weeks.
We will now list the most popular cities and villages on the French Atlantic coast, explain why each place is worth visiting, and everything you need to know to sail in the region (ease of access to the marina , installations offered, tips and tricks).
Brest
What to do in Brest?
Brest is the most second largest city in Brittany, known for its rich maritime history. Nowadays, the city mainly derives its income from its port activity, but tourism is also important. The main attractions in Brest are the Tanguy Tour, a medieval tower, and Oceanopolis, a large aquarium. Sea lovers will also appreciate the Marine National Museum, located inside the Château de Brest, a medieval castle right next to the port. When you are in Brest, it is also worth visiting the Armoric Regional Natural ParkE, a nature reserve right next to the city, with rich fauna and flora.
Navigate in Brest
Although the port of Brest is mainly focused on trade, it is also suitable for yachts with two available marinas. Access can be difficult Due to the number of commercial ships entering and leaving the port, but with a little patience, you should get out of it. The two marinas offer all the imaginable services and provide state -of -the -art maintenance and repair facilities.
- Website: www.best.port.bzh
Douarnenez
What to do in Douarnenez?
Douarnenez is a small town with a population of just more than 15,000 inhabitants. The main activity of this city is fishing, so it has a large port with a constant movement. It now becomes a popular destination for tourists in summer because of its warm climate and its peaceful beaches. Opposite the city is Tristan Island, which can be reached when the tide is low.
Navigate in Douarnenez
There are several ports in Douarnenez available for yachts. The port of Treboul, on the west bank of the Pouldavid river, can be difficult to access Due to frequent strong winds, your best option could therefore be the floating port to RHU port. It offers good shelter and basic services. Certain repair work can be carried out at the port of Treboul.
Lorient
What to do in Lorient?
Lorient is another large port city on the Atlantic coast, and it is one of the most popular destinations for yachts. It offers several activities for sailing enthusiasts, such as The City of Sailing (a sailing museum that offers excursions at sea), Keroman's underwater base and the Lorient submarine museum. Lorient was invaded by the Nazis during the Second World War, so those who love history will find enormous value in this city and how it was destroyed and rebuilt.
Navigate in Lorient
Enter Lorient is easy because his natural port The protects of strong winds and tides. It is worth visiting it all year round. There are several marinas by going up the river which offer all the services and repair facilities.
Saint nazaire
What to do in Saint Nazaire?
Saint Nazaire is a medium -sized city located on the right bank of the Loire. Saint Nazaire has a strong tradition of naval construction, which is preserved in the Escal'atlantic museum, a life -size reconstruction of a liner, which celebrates the city's naval past. The city is also known for its impressive Bridge over the Loire. Although Saint Nazaire herself deserves to be visited, she is also access to another big French city, Nantes, located just 50 km.
Navigate to Saint Nazaire
Access to the port of Saint Nazaire is easy, although maritime traffic along the Loire can be quite high. There are several options for yachts, with basic services and repair facilities.
- Website: www.nantes.port.fr
Les Sables d'Olonne
What to do at the Sables of Olonne?
Les Sables-d'Olonne, a jewel of the Vendée coast, reveal sunny days between golden beaches and invigorating walks. Browse the picturesque Ile Penotte district, where houses decorated with shells reveal the local artistic expression. THE Sainte-Croix Abbey Museum offers a cultural dive with his contemporary art collection. Nature lovers will find refuge in the Olonne forest, offering winding hiking trails in the middle of a variety of plant and animal species, in pure forest air. A charismatic seaside getaway, combining relaxation, art and maritime explorations.
Navigate to the Sables d'Olonne
The Port des Sables-d'Olonne is well equipped to accommodate navigators, and the city is famous for being the starting point of the Vendée Globe, a solo sailing race around the world. Boat enthusiasts will find here an essential place.
- Website: www.portolona.fr
La Rochelle
What to do in La Rochelle?
La Rochelle is a beautiful city with a medieval architecture and a strong maritime tradition. The city center houses houses, churches and buildings of the Middle Ages. The island of Ré is a small island in front of La Rochelle with beautiful beaches oceanic and a large lighthouse, The whale lighthouse, which can be visited and offers a beautiful view of the city. The La Rochelle aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, and it is a must for all those who love the sea. Another attraction outside the Rochelle which is really worth the detour is The National Bay of L'Aiguillon.
Navigate in La Rochelle
La Rochelle has a commercial port, Old Port, and a large marina for yachts and pleasure boats, Minimal. The two ports are easy to access And offer all maintenance services and installations. La Rochelle is a very attractive city all year round, although it becomes quite busy during the summer, attracting tourists from all over France and Europe.
- Website: www.portlarochelle.com
Royan / Port Medoc
What to do in Royan?
Royan is a small town that has become one of the most popular seaside resorts on the Atlantic coast. Royan is located at the start of the estuary formed by Rivers Garonne and Dordogne. It has extremely beautiful sandy beaches with a length of more than 2 km. Royan has other tourist attractions that deserve to be visited, such as Planet Exotica, a zoo and an amusement park, Notre Dame de Royan, a concrete church with post-war architecture, and the Royan museum. Royan is only 50 km from Bordeaux and ofArcachon, one of the largest French cities with a very rich culture.
Navigate Royan
Royan becomes extremely crowded during the summer, but it is worth visiting all year round. Royan has a large port, although Access can be difficult due to occasional strong winds and intense circulation. Another alternative is Port Medoc, which is on the other side of the Royan estuary. It offers all the services and repair facilities.
- Website: www.port-adhoc.com
Arcachon
What to do in Arcachon?
In Arcachon, the Atlantic coast reveals an exceptional seaside experience. Famous for its bay (including Cap Ferret) and the Dune du Pilat, the highest in Europe, Arcachon seduced by its charm. There winter city reveals an elegant architecture, a reflection of its rich past. Between golden beaches and seafood tasting In restaurants by the sea, the port of Arcachon, accessible and equipped, offers an anchoring anchor to explore this maritime region. A stay where relaxation, architecture, and adventure meet naturally.
Navigate in Arcachon
The port of Arcachon is accessible And offers installations for boaters, offering an ideal anchor to explore the natural beauty of the region.
- Website: www.port-ercachon.com
Bayonne
What to do in Bayonne?
Bayonne is a picturesque medieval city in the southwest of France. She has a beautiful cathedral and a old town animated with street markets. However, the main attraction of Bayonne is to be right next to Biarritz, the elegant and renowned seaside resort with magnificent sandy beaches that attract thousands of tourists each year. Biarritz has a big aquarium, a modern museum with exhibitions on the ocean and surf, and a chocolate museum.
Navigate in Bayonne
The port of Bayonne is mainly a commercial port, but there is a good marina for yachts because of its proximity to Biarritz. Access is safe and easy During any season from the south, with low winds. The port offers all possible services and includes repair facilities. Transport is available directly from port to Biarritz.
- Website: www.bayonne.port.fr
Saint John of Luz
What to do in Saint John of Luz?
Saint Jean de Luz is a fishing city located a few kilometers from the Spanish border. The city is located in the Basque region, it therefore has its own identity different from all the rest of France. King Louis XIV married Marie-Thérèse of Spain to Saint John of Luz, and the city has a strong historical influence of this period, with churches and museums which exhibit magnificent works of art.
Navigate to Saint Jean de Luz
Saint Jean de Luz has a natural port and a port mainly used for trade. It is not a popular destination for yachts, but the port offers some basic services and maintenance. The best time of year to visit Saint Jean de Luz is during the summer, when the winds are calm and the sunny weather is ideal for going to the beach; During the winter, the winds can be quite strong.
- Website: www.port-saintjeandeluz-ciboure.com
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