ATLANTIC COAST

From Hendaye, at the gateway to Spain, all the way to La Rochelle, the Atlantic Coast unfolds over 720 kilometres of vast, unspoilt landscapes—an open invitation to slow down and change pace. Here, the ocean is experienced on an XXL scale: endless beaches set among sand dunes, maritime pine forests stretching as far as the eye can see, immense and majestic estuaries, and peaceful freshwater lakes. A spectacular coastline, among the best preserved in Europe, perfectly aligned with today’s expectations: nature, space to breathe, gentle activities, and responsible tourism.

A true playground for outdoor sports, the Atlantic Coast is best discovered in motion: surf sessions facing the waves, cycling rides along the Vélodyssée, active escapes through breathtaking scenery.

But it also reveals a rich, gourmet art of living rooted in short supply chains: oyster tastings during a trip to the oyster farms of the Arcachon Bay, traditional mussel éclades in Charente, and local markets where sea and land meet with authenticity. And then there is the Atlantic Coast’s powerful maritime heritage, which gives the destination real depth: historic ports such as La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Rochefort, or Saint-Jean-de-Luz; listed lighthouses watching over the shore—Cordouan, La Courbe—and seaside resorts inherited from the Belle Époque, from Soulac to Arcachon and on to Biarritz. A collection of iconic places blending elegance with fresh sea air.

On the Atlantic Coast, you can slow down or surge ahead, marvel or push your limits, reconnect, feel inspired, and breathe more freely. In truth, everything is possible when facing the ocean.