France, Atlantic Coast Resorts

The Atlantic coast is largely made up of long sandy beaches; coastal towns and villages, such as La Rochelle, Les Sables d'Olonne and Rochefort, have tended to spread along behind the shoreline, but in many parts, the beaches are backed by a band of pine forests, and can be remarkably uncrowded even in summer.

La Rochelle is one of France’s loveliest coastal towns. Walk through the striking Gothic gateway, Porte de la Grosse Horloge and you enter a maze of pedestrianised streets, flanked by seventeenth and eighteenth century buildings that are now home to boutique shops selling everything from fashion and homeware to delicious pastries and fresh bread, books and antiques. Les Sables'd'Olonne is a purpose built seaside resort on the Cote de la Lumiere (coast of light). Its long sandy beach, numerous sports facilities and attractions make it ideal for a fun family holiday.