French seaside resorts. Beach holidays in France
Don't know where to spend your vacation? Torn between a trip to Europe and a vacation at sea? How about relaxing by the sea in Europe? Although France is widely known as the home of the most romantic city in the world, Paris, as a trendsetter and producer of wonderful fragrances, this is not all that France has to offer you. Holidays in France by the sea are distinguished by their sophistication and originality, and its wonderful beaches are the favorite places of many show business stars and representatives blue blood. The sea coasts of France cover more than 3 thousand kilometers, and the riches donated by nature and improved by people create conditions for a truly elite holiday. France with sea holidays is great option spend summer! Let's talk about the most famous and traditional seaside resorts in France, where you can go with your family or friends.
Holidays on the French Riviera
Nice is one of the most wonderful cities that offer holidays on the Cote d'Azur of France. Even 200 years ago, the English high society noticed the coast of Nice as a great place to improve their health after the endless rains and fogs of Albion. Since then, rest here is considered royal. On the Promenade des Anglais, which occupies the entire coast of Nice, there are all the amenities that a noble person needs. Tall palm trees, clear azure sea, the luxury of coastal villas, trendy shops and restaurants, as well as bright blue benches and umbrellas, known throughout the world.
The city of Cannes is a real beach paradise, which boasts the purest and finest golden sand. The beaches in Cannes are mostly private, so all the necessary amenities: sun loungers, umbrellas, showers and tables for drinks - required attributes high service, but the cost of this service, unfortunately, "bites". An affordable alternative is the public beaches of Plages du Midi and Plages de la Bocca, where you can also buy umbrellas and sun loungers, but at a more affordable price. The only caveat is that it is very crowded and noisy. On all Cannes beaches, without exception, those who wish can ride jet skis, skis and even take a parachute flight behind a boat. Here you can sunbathe topless.
If you love untouched, untouched nature, then, when going to France for a vacation, be sure to visit the Calanque bays. White limestone cliffs are located on the coast between Cassis and Marseille. For centuries they have been exposed to the forces of wind and water, and the current mountain rivers carved their way, forming gorges that penetrate deep into the land. crystal pure water emerald-azure color and attracts tourists from all over the world. Only now you have to get to this place on foot along steep mountain paths, unless, of course, you have your own yacht. In addition, boats regularly depart from Cassis and Marseilles to the bays, but in this case, you will have to be content only with observation and photographs.
Another favorite place for celebrities who prefer to relax on the coast of France is the beaches of Saint-Tropez. The five-kilometer Pamplona beach, which is located near the city, is considered one of the most popular places for sunbathing, swimming and active rest. On its vast territory, traditional luxurious beaches with umbrellas and sun loungers, as well as beaches for nudists, coexist perfectly. One way or another, you will not be bored: jet skis, bananas, yachts, water skis, as well as delicious cocktails at your disposal, for a fee, of course.
Holidays on the Atlantic coast of France
Holidays on the Atlantic coast of France are represented by the provinces of Brittany, Normandy and Aquitaine. A truly wonderful representative of Normandy is the small seaside town of Deauville, which perfectly combines well-groomed green areas and golden sands of the seashore. Unlike resorts on the Cote d'Azur, there is no unbearable heat here, so Deauville attracts representatives different ages and even entire families with small children. In addition to a wonderful seaside resort, the city has much to offer tourists - many attractions, a casino, a hippodrome where the best Arabian horses compete, a horse auction, an American film festival, a world polo championship and much more. By the way, the famous Coco Chanel brought fame to this city. It was here that she, violating all the rules of decency, in 1913 for the first time publicly bathed in the sea, which until then was strictly forbidden by the rules of etiquette. It was this daring Mademoiselle that brought into fashion tan and comfortable clothes of simple cut made of cheap fabrics, which were previously worn exclusively by representatives of a rather poor class. And it was here that the first Coco Chanel clothing store was opened.
Picturesque resort town Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Aquitaine, the city of fishermen and corsairs, is located almost on the border with Spain, on the shores of the Bay of Biscay. Its golden beaches have long won the love of couples with children. The city has both for tourism and for lovers of a rich holiday. It offers vacationers luxury hotels, casinos, golf courses and thalassotherapy centers. Holidays on the coast of France are much more pleasant with cultural and sporting events that this city is rich in: classical music concerts, various film festivals, pelata championships and much more at your disposal.
A trip to the southwest coast is much cheaper than a holiday on the Cote d'Azur. Therefore, many students, young musicians and athletes rest in the resorts of the Bay of Biscay. Every year, the town of Biarritz hosts international surfing competitions that bring together wave conquerors from all over the world. In general, a holiday in France is a great option for a vacation. Be sure to consider it when you decide where to go this summer. We guarantee you that you will be satisfied with the high-class French service and the good-natured atmosphere that reigns in the resorts of this original country.
All the boundaries of the resorts of the Cote d'Azur are conditional, therefore they are often considered as a single resort, which is called the French Riviera. Here are the most elite resorts in the world. You can drive the entire coast in three hours.
From Nice to Cannes and Saint-Tropez are located sandy beaches, and towards Italy, and in Nice itself - from pebbles and stones. Almost all beaches are 35-45 meters wide.
On the Cote d'Azur, most of the beaches are urban, but every 5 years some beaches are raffled off at an auction among hotel business owners. After such an auction, it is rented, and the entrance costs about 20 euros. Having paid for the entrance, the visitor can use an umbrella, sunbed, mattress, shower free of charge. There are much fewer people on such beaches than on municipal ones. All four- and five-star hotels provide their guests with a 50% discount on entry to paid beaches.
There is no time to be bored on the Cote d'Azur. Passive beach holidays can always be replaced with active activities. You can take a walk on yachts or jet skis, go fishing or diving, play golf or tennis, ride bicycles or roller skates, bend down with a parachute. Everyone chooses leisure at their own discretion. A large number of fashionable restaurants will surprise even the most sophisticated gourmets. Casinos and nightclubs are open until the last visitor.
The climate of the Cote d'Azur perfect for year-round recreation. Almost 300 days a year it is sunny and warm here. The Alps protect the region from strong winds. The greatest amount of rain falls in March and November.
How to get there?
To be in Nice international Airport from which buses run to all resort towns.
There is a regular train connection between Paris and the French Riviera, the journey takes about 6 hours (120 euros). By car, you should drive along the A8 highway.
The most popular and fashionable resort not only on the Cote d'Azur, but throughout Europe. A small fishing village in the past, now turned into the "City of Stars". Cannes became so famous after the first film festival. peak visit famous people in May - during the international festival. The population of the city is about 70 thousand. man, but during holiday season, it increases several times.
the main street city - Boulevard Croisette. The most fashionable boutiques, luxury hotels and restaurants are concentrated here. The embankment leads to the main attractions - the Palace of Festivals and the Avenue of Stars.
There are paid beaches, and with free entry. But all the beaches are clean and tidy, there are lifeguards, and playgrounds are equipped for children.
In addition to the Cannes Film Festival, various events are held:
- musical nights;
- festival of polytechnical art;
- Festival of commercials;
- royal regattas;
- jumps;
- golf tournaments.
For gambling people, Cannes is simply a paradise. A large number of casinos are open here.
In addition to luxury hotels (Small Luxury Hotels, Accor, Lucien Barriere, Holiday Inn, Best Western, Maeva, Odalys, Hilton, Resideal), you can find more modest accommodation with affordable prices (Best Western Hotel Univers Cannes, Appartement Boucicaut, Beverly Hotel Cannes , Campanile Cannes Ouest Mandelieu Hotel, Cannes Garden Hotel, Five Hotel & Spa).
In the vicinity of Cannes, there are many small resort towns and islets (Antibes, Juan-les-Pins, Grae, Saint-Marguerite Island, Saint-Honorat Island). 
Antibes and Juan-les-Pins prominent representatives Provence.
Antibes is preferred by youth companies. There are a large number of bars, nightclubs, discos. Juan-les-Pins is more often chosen couples, it is more peaceful and comfortable here. Hyeres - This resort is popular with surfers.
The most flourishing city in France. If you want to relax on a pebbly beach, visit luxurious buildings or taste the gastronomic masterpieces of the best chefs, then head to this resort paradise.
The city has a large number of museums and galleries, so you are guaranteed a cultural pastime. In addition, you can visit the opera, the observatory or the marine park. Take part in races at the hippodrome, enroll in a perfume-composing course, or go for a wine tasting.
The nightlife of the city is also active. Numerous bars, nightclubs and casinos ensure a fun-filled stay. There are restaurants and cafes with affordable prices on Rue Massena.
For children, it will be interesting to visit water parks (Marineland, Aqua Splash), amusement parks, farms with pets.
Saint-Tropez
This resort is preferred by world movie stars, artists and oligarchs. The infrastructure of the city takes into account the needs of elite tourists, so everything here is done in the best way. highest level. Luxury hotels, fine hotels, expensive nightclubs, famous designer boutiques, marinas - whatever the cream of society desires. The largest beach of Pampellon is over 5 km long.
Pebble beaches are the main disadvantage of the resort. But otherwise, the entire infrastructure of the city is aimed at providing the best rest for all tourists.
Côte d'Arzhan - stretches for 230 km.
The city of Mimizan is the most popular resort this region. The resort is known for making perfume oils, hosting the Lemon Festival and lush citrus orchards. The beaches here are very clean and all are equipped with shower cabins.
This seaside resort is preferred by the French, especially the inhabitants of Bordeaux. The city is divided into two parts - summer and winter. The first is located near the ocean, and the second - on a wooded hill. All year round there is something to do here. The resort is famous for its thalassotherapy wellness centers.
Normandy has always been known for its beautiful landscapes. The main resorts offer impeccable relaxation and interesting entertainment (a large number of golf courses, hippodromes, sports complexes, nightclubs, excellent restaurants).
The symbol of Normandy is the abbey of Mont Saint-Michel. It is located on top of a rock that is surrounded by water.
Former aristocratic resort of Normandy. Luxurious mansions, trendy boutiques, gourmet restaurants, sandy beaches and close quarters to the capital (an hour and a half drive) - attracts many wealthy people.
Due to the cool water in the ocean, most prefer swimming in pools with warm sea water.
The resort is a thalassotherapy center (treatment with mud and seaweed). The main sanatorium - Algotherm On its territory there is a beauty salon, solarium, sauna, gym, dietary restaurant, shop with cosmetics Algotherm.
Holidays in Deauville are always varied. You can go windsurfing, ride a catamaran or jet ski, play tennis or golf, take walks in the surrounding villages or in neighboring cities. The city often hosts music and film festivals, horse races and auctions, and a polo championship.
Accommodation at this resort is very expensive, designed for wealthy tourists. But in the vicinity of Deauville (Cabourg, Trouville, Honfleu), housing can be rented much cheaper. perfect time to visit the Emerald Coast (Brittany) - end of June - mid-August.
The main attraction of the resort is the Huguenot fortress. Near the city there are many resort suburbs that will be of interest to tourists. For example, the neighboring island of Oleron is known for having played the Fort Boyard game there.
Biarritz is the most popular resort on the Atlantic coast. It is located in a very beautiful area. Wide sandy beaches and small bays make the resort a romantic destination. Biarritz has been considered the beach of kings since the reign of Napoleon. And the balneological center, built on the orders of Napoleon's wife, has always attracted aristocrats from all over Europe. Most best month to visit - August.
France is the largest country in Europe. Due to its length, holidays in France by the sea are possible immediately and on the shore mediterranean sea and on the coast Atlantic Ocean. Tourists appreciate both coasts of France, although the Cote d'Azur is still the leader in popularity.
When planning a tour to France with a seaside holiday, it is worth remembering that the water is much warmer on the Mediterranean coast and the season lasts longer. On the French Riviera there are the Velvet season when a September vacation on the coast is almost more comfortable than a summer one. But the Atlantic Ocean does not provide autumn swimming to its guests, the whole bathing season limited here summer months. And the water here rarely warms up more than +20°C.
Best holiday at sea in France from the point of view of most tourists is possible on the Cote d'Azur. Beaches and, where you can safely be on neighboring sunbeds with a world celebrity, invariably attract vacationers. At the same time, despite the popularity of the local resorts, on the Riviera it is quite possible to find budget options recreation. Many vacationers come here with their families, because the beaches of the Cote d'Azur are great for swimming children. In addition to the most famous resorts, there is also Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and, of course, the famous one.
The beaches of the neighboring Languedoc-Roussillon are no worse in quality, but much cheaper and not as crowded as the beaches of the Riviera. Holidays on the beaches of France in this part of the coast are preferred by lovers of hitchhiking and camping tourism. Around the resorts of Argelet-Plage, Saint-Séprien-Plage and Cap d'Agde, an extensive campsite invariably grows every summer.
On the coast of the Atlantic Ocean there is no such heat as on the Cote d'Azur, the climate here is much milder. At the same time, there are enough excellent beaches along almost the entire coastline, from Aquitaine to Normandy. The coast of Aquitaine is called the Silver Coast, and its sandy beaches are especially popular.
France presents huge opportunities for tourism. France is the largest country by area Western Europe, its borders by sea are 5500 km. She washes North Sea, the English Channel, the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
Most of the French in the summer try to get to the sea coast. Despite the fact that holidays in Normandy and on the Atlantic coast are quite popular, best place for a beach holiday in France, the Mediterranean coast is still considered. Here the largest resorts are the French Riviera or the Cote d'Azur and Montpellier with its surroundings.
Search tours to France
Cote d'Azur
The Cote d'Azur (Côte d'Azur) is located in the southeast of the Mediterranean coast of France. This is the most popular and fashionable resort, known for its high prices and developed infrastructure. The largest city is Marseille, famous for the movie Taxi. Here you can visit the Chateau d'If, where, according to legend, the Count of Monte Cristo languished. In addition to Marseille, the most famous cities are St. Tropez, Antibes, Nice, Cannes, Monte Carlo. The Côte d'Azur is famous for its mild Mediterranean climate and large quantity sunny days(300 days a year). beach season lasts from late May to September, the water temperature ranges from 20 to 25 degrees. The coastline is indented and rocky. From the Italian border to Antibes, the beaches are pebbly, then sandy.
Nice also has beaches with imported sand. From entertainment, casinos are popular, which are available in almost every major city, the most popular - in Monte Carlo. Not far from the town of Biot is an amusement park, which includes the largest marine zoo in Europe, Marineland, a butterfly park, Antibes Land amusement park and a water park.
Montpellier
Despite the fact that Montpellier itself does not have direct access to the sea, its surroundings are a popular Mediterranean holiday destination. sea coast France. The nearest beaches are located just 10 km from the city. The population is about 600,000 people.
If you, like me, love unexplored places where the foot of a Russian tourist has hardly set foot, then you are definitely here. Here you will not hear not only Russian speech, but also, with a high probability, English. The exception is hotel employees and information bureaus.
How to get to Montpellier
Montpellier has an airport. In addition, the city is connected to Paris by rail. Schedule and ticket prices can be found. For example, when I bought train tickets from Paris to Montpellier, there was a discount for a group of three people - 30 euros for each. Unfortunately, when I started booking, I realized that this rate does not apply to a child, and therefore I cannot use the promotion. As a result, I had to buy 2 adult tickets for 35 euros, and for a child of 4 years old, the ticket, ironically, cost 42 euros, because. Children are not eligible for a non-refundable fare. After German railways, where children, in principle, travel for free, this was an unpleasant surprise.
Also, OUIGO economy class trains run from Paris to Montpellier, or rather, they do not depart from Paris itself, but from the Marne-la-Vallee station, where tickets can be bought just for ridiculous money - from 10 euros for an adult, but, unfortunately, I failed to do this, tk. they only accept payment plastic cards French banks.
Where to stay
If you are interested in a beach holiday, then you can stay in any of the villages in the vicinity of Montpellier. All beaches are amazing. You can also stay in the city itself and go to the beach by bus or bike.
Having previously studied the information, I settled on a choice of two villages - Le Grau-de-Roi and La Grande-Motte. They are 5 km apart and about 35 km from Montpellier. Both have excellent beaches and excellent infrastructure for recreation. They are conveniently accessible from Montpellier by bus, Le Grau-de-Roi also runs local train. Since I planned to stay in an apartment, and the office of the company where you need to get the keys was in La Grande Motte, as a result, I chose this city. And she didn't regret it.
La Grand Mote
La Grande Motte is just a magical place. The city was built in the 60s in a unique single architectural solution. All the main buildings were erected almost simultaneously on the previously almost deserted coast among the sand dunes. The buildings are built in the style of the pyramids, inspired by the architecture of the ancient Maya. These pyramids house modern hotels and apartments. We rented an apartment in one of these buildings, located almost on the seashore. The main contingent of vacationers are families with children, for the most part French, tourists from Russia for 10 days of rest, we have not met.
The beach strip stretches continuously for many kilometers. The beaches are very wide and clean and have a blue flag. In fact, these are natural dunes, equipped with everything necessary for recreation. On the beaches there are cafes, toilets, showers, changing rooms, equipment rental. It also preserves the unique natural vegetation of the dunes, which are asked to be treated with care.
The water in the sea is absolutely transparent and clean. But we were not lucky with the weather. Despite the fact that we were in La Grande Motte in the second half of August, the air and water temperatures were quite low - at the level of 20 degrees. It was like a holiday in Egypt in the winter. Truth, locals They said that such weather is absolutely atypical. 
In La Grande Motte, you will not be bored during your vacation. In addition to the beach, the city has a promenade, which is nice to walk along and admire the yachts, several beautiful and cozy parks, fountains. In the summer season, the city has a rich program for vacationers. For example, we got children's holiday with various competitions, carnival and festive fireworks. There are various free fitness classes. Booklets about activities are available at the Tourist Office.
La Grande Motte has a huge number of cafes, restaurants and bars where you can taste delicious dishes Mediterranean cuisine, such as fried mussels (moules). They are cooked in huge frying pans right in front of the entrance to the restaurant and served in pans in 1.5 kg portions. And what's the sauce!
A tourist excursion train runs around the city. On a regular bus, you can go to neighboring villages, at the same time admire nature. If you're lucky, you can see pink flamingos through the bus window.
From excursions you can visit the nearby medieval fortress of Aigues Morgues, national reserve, the medieval castle of Carcassonne, the Haribo confectionery factory. Of course, there are no excursions in Russian.
Wind in the south of France
There is wind, as on any sea coast. It is believed that on the French Riviera, closer to the border with Italy, it is smaller. In La Grande Motte, the influence of the winds was felt, but was not critical. The direction of the wind greatly affects the temperature of the water in the sea. For example, one day a strong storm broke out, the wind blew away sand, clothes, towels. The temperature in the sea rose several degrees at once, and the sea became very warm. On another day, the wind, on the contrary, brought a cold current closer to the shore, and the water became cold.
Which of us has not dreamed of a vacation in France or, for example, to spend romantic evening in Paris? Many dream of the French provinces, where there are small wineries. Others strive to get to one of the beaches. And this country gladly welcomes all guests, wrapping them in warm hospitality.
Most tourists travel to this country for sightseeing tours. But still, there are those who prefer a beach holiday in France, which is focused on the Mediterranean coast with its beaches in Nice, St. Tropez, Juan-les-Pins, Cannes, Antibes. There are resorts on the Atlantic coast. These include the province of Aquitaine with the resort of Biarritz, the province of Brittany with the resorts of Quibron, La Baule, Dinard and Saint-Malo, and Normandy with the resorts of Deauville, Honfleur and Trouville. Speaking about the rest of this country, one cannot help but recall
Now there is only one thing left - to choose the most suitable resort, so that in France it will be remembered for long years. So, for example, the sands of Languedoc are perfect place for those traveling with children. For those who want solitude, it is best to go to the rocky shores of Corsica. The resort of Biarritz is recommended for those who love silence. It is famous for its wide beaches covered with golden sand. One of the world's best thalassotherapy centers Miramar is located here, the main focus of which is the treatment of diseases nervous system. In addition, the resort of Biarritz is very popular with surfers.
Not far from the above beach resort Saint Jean de Luz. He retired to a calm bay, due to which it is more comfortable to swim here. A little further south is the resort village of Ciboure, ideal for surfers and water skiers.
For many of us, the concepts of beach holidays, France, comfortable hotels, for some reason, are associated with Nice and Cannes. Undoubtedly, these are the largest and most famous resorts. In addition, Cannes has gained fame thanks to the annual film festivals. There is a wide sandy beach, which is marked blue flag. Nice is distinguished by the fact that it has pebble beaches. Both resorts are designed for outdoor enthusiasts.
beach holiday in France - these are not only famous resorts, but also less well-known ones located in their vicinity. The best of them are Juan-les-Pins and Antibes. The first is famous for the annual World Jazz Forum. These beaches practically do not have borders between themselves and occupy the territory between the sea and the mountains, dotted with sandy places here, with a gentle coast. This is an ideal haven for those who need a break from daily worries and stress.
And for celebrities, a beach holiday in France is, of course, Deauville. This is an elite fashionable resort with luxurious sandy beaches. Hotels are expensive here. And the whole infrastructure as a whole shows that this resort is intended exclusively for the rich. Horse racing, an American film festival, and an auction of one-year-old stallions are held here. Open golf club, casino, yacht club. A feature of the beach of this resort is a huge number of personal dressing rooms on the coast.
Saint-Tropez also belongs to the expensive resorts of the Cote d'Azur. You will not find ordinary hotels here, the whole territory is filled with expensive villas and mansions. The coast is equipped at the highest level. Here you can see in everything that this place is for the rich - expensive nightclubs, marinas, casinos and much more.
But the listed resorts are not the whole of France. A beach holiday here is impossible without diving, and the best places for this are the islands of Porquerolles, Port-Cros and Le Levant. Here, the magnificent Mediterranean nature is ideally combined with the pristine luxury of the underwater kingdom. You can go to the Lavezzi Islands, located near Corsica. Here opens the world of underwater granite rocks and amazingly beautiful flora and fauna.