Beaches near Nantes
Nantes is often cited as a dynamic, environmentally friendly city with a rich history and culture. But it should not be forgotten that it is also a city close to the Atlantic coast and therefore close to the beaches. Discover a selection of beaches to visit accessible from Nantes.
La Baule-Escoublac, 1h ????
La Baule is a beach frequently referred to as the largest beach in Europe. And indeed with a 9km bay of sand, there is no denying that title. Very popular with tourists, it has many assets. For example with its soft, fine sand that allows you to lie back and enjoy the beautiful weather or its unique wave-like architecture that borders the coast. To get there from Nantes, you can take the TER from Nantes station.
Les Sables-d’Olonne, 1h15 ????
Les Sables-d’Olonne, a town renowned for being the start of the Vendée Globe and the epicentre of yacht racing, is also a town with beaches that are well worth a visit. Activities such as surfing, paddle boarding, boating and scuba diving can be enjoyed here. It can also be reached by TER from Nantes station.
Saint Marc sur mer, 1h15 ????
Saint Marc sur mer is a little known but interesting beach for tourists. Despite its coarse, unwelcoming sand, there are huge rocks that the more adventurous can climb to gain access to a breathtaking panoramic view! This beach also has a cultural side because it is a beach that appears in “Les vacances de Monsieur Hulot” a film from the 50’s and which houses a statue of the main character Monsieur Hulot. In terms of access, it is close to La Baule.
Pornic, 1h ????
Pornic is a town located in the south of the Loire and has a harbour and many lovely beaches that range from cute little coves that are family friendly to simple and basic beaches that are nice and sunny. To get there from Nantes, you can take the TER.
La Roche Ballue, 40min ????
Finally, the Roche Ballue is not a beach, but it is a surprising and unusual place. Formerly a quarry, it has been filled in to become a pond. It is a small pond with a cliff which adds an epic touch to the already beautiful landscape with its trees and greenery and can be reached from Nantes in 30 minutes with the 78 bus.
