France, with its stunning coastline stretching for thousands of miles, is a country for beach lovers. From the windswept cliffs of Normandy to the sun-soaked beaches of the Cote d’Azur, here are some of the best beaches in France for your summer travels.
1. Palombaggia, Corsica
Palombaggia is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in France. With its fine white sand and crystal-clear waters, this beach is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Corsica and a great place to soak up the Sun, swim, and enjoy water sports.
Day Trips
From Corsica, you can also take day trips to Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio to explore the historic towns, local markets, and try out traditional Corsican food. The Sentier des Douaniers hiking trail also runs along the coastline and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Local Brews
Try Cedratine, a liqueur that is made from the fruit of the cedrat tree, which is native to Corsica. It has a sweet and tangy flavor and is often served as an aperitif. And Eau de Vie, a type of brandy that is distilled from local fruit, such as figs, plums, and cherries. It is a strong and aromatic spirit that is often enjoyed as a digestif after a meal.
2. Plage du Sillon, Saint-Malo
Plage du Sillon is a long sandy beach located in the charming town of Saint-Malo, in the Brittany region. This beach is popular with locals and tourists alike and is an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, and walking. The beach is backed by a long promenade lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Day Trips
Visit Cancale, a small fishing village that is located about 20 minutes from Saint-Malo. The town is famous for its oysters, which are harvested from the nearby beds. Try the local seafood in one of the town’s many restaurants and visit the local oyster farms.
Local Brews
Chouchen is a traditional Breton mead that is made from fermented honey. It has a sweet, slightly spicy flavor. Then there is Muscadet, a white wine that is made from the Melon de Bourgogne grape, grown in the Loire Valley and Brittany. It has a light, crisp flavor with notes of citrus and minerality. We recommend pairing Muscadet with seafood and local dishes.
3. Biarrtiz, Basque Country
Biarritz is a chic seaside town located in the Basque Country, in southwestern France. The town is known for its world-class surfing beaches, including La Côte des Basques and Grande Plage. The town itself is also worth exploring, with its elegant architecture, excellent restaurants, and lively nightlife.
Day Trips
Visit Espelette, a small village located in the foothills of the Pyrenees, just a short drive from Biarritz. The village is known for its production of Espelette peppers, which are a key ingredient in Basque cuisine. Visitors can explore the village’s many shops and cafes, and even visit a local pepper farm.
Local Brews
Basque Cider is a popular drink in the Basque region, and Biarritz is no exception. Basque cider is usually tart and slightly effervescent, and it’s traditionally served from a large barrel called a “txotx.” You can try Basque cider at local cider houses or bars. Biarritz also has its own microbrewery, La Brasserie du Basque, which produces a variety of high-quality beers.
4. Plage de Pampelonne, St. Tropez
Plage de Pampelonne is one of the most famous beaches on the French Riviera. Located near the glamorous town of St. Tropez, this beach is popular with celebrities and jet-setters. With its golden sand, crystal-clear water, and luxurious beach clubs, Plage de Pampelonne is the perfect place to see and be seen.
Day Trips
Travel to Port Grimaud, a charming seaside town located just a short distance from Plage de Pampelonne. The town is known for its network of canals, which are lined with colorful buildings and boats. You can take a boat tour of the canals, explore the town’s many shops and cafes, or simply enjoy the beautiful views.
Local Brews
St. Tropez is located in the heart of the Côte de Provence wine region, which is known for producing high-quality red, white, and rosé wines. You can take a guided tour of a nearby vineyard to learn more about the winemaking process. Pastis is a popular anise-flavored liqueur that is often served as an aperitif in St. Tropez. It’s typically mixed with water, which causes it to turn cloudy and creates a refreshing, slightly sweet drink.
5. Plage des Ondes, Ile de Ré
Plage des Ondes is a beautiful beach located on the tranquil Ile de Ré, off the west coast of France. With its clear water and golden sand, this beach is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The beach is also popular with wind and kite surfers, who take advantage of the island’s steady winds.
Day Trip
Les Marais Salants de l’île de Ré is a salt marsh located on the eastern side of Île de Ré. The marsh is a protected natural area, and you can take guided tours to learn more about the local wildlife and the traditional salt-making process.
Local Brews
Try the Pineau des Charentes, a sweet, fortified wine that is made in the Charente region of France, which includes Île de Ré. The wine also pairs well with local cheeses and desserts.
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