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BeachesKnown locally as the "Côte de beauté", this stretch of coast where the Gironde meets the Atlantic is popular for its calm waters and soft sand. The Charentais have looked after their coastline and not allowed over-development to spoil its natural contours. The sandy coves of nearby Meschers are flanked by limestone cliffs and riddled with caves. At the top of the Estuary these give way to the expansive bay of St Georges de Didonne, fringed with pine forests and whitewashed villas. Many beaches are swept on a daily basis in summer and water quality is maintained at a high standard.
The daring exploits of the "Cockleshell Heroes" also took place in the Gironde estuary.
For watersports and sand-yachting, as well as a greater choice of seaside restaurants, the two kilometre stretch of fine sand at St Georges de Didonne (15 mins by car) is highly recommended. Out of season one can enjoy walking from the lighthouse at one end to pine forest and dunes at the other, whilst during summer there are regular evening markets along the seafront. None of these beaches gets overcrowded even at the height of the season. Early-arrivals can usually nab a parking space close to their favourite sunbathing spot! Above the town of Royan, with its own carefully-tended bays and beaches, one can explore the "Côte Sauvage" - an unspoiled stretch of white sand pounded by Atlantic breakers. This is popular with surfers and some areas are set aside for naturists. |
You can take your pick from sheltered coves like the "Plage
des Nonnes" or the wide sweep of "Plage des Vergnes", which has
a stunning backdrop of pines and dunes. On a headland above can
be seen the remains of German gun emplacements which defended the Gironde in WWII.