France is reputed worldwide for iconic attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the beautiful fragrant lavender fields of Provence, the magnificent castles of the Loire Valley and the sensual glamour of the French Riviera. However, there is more to France than these well-trodden tourism paths. The country boasts thousands of kilometers of coastline that enclose enticing hidden beaches, outstanding corners of paradise yet undiscovered by the masses. If you prefer the charm of an intimate beach to the bustle of mass tourism, this is for you! We invite you to embark on a journey to discover some of France’s most underrated, yet stunning, beaches.
Debutons notre voyage on the west coast. The first hidden gem we visit is the île de Ré. While the more famous nearby towns of La Rochelle and Bordeaux often steal the show, île de Ré cradles some of the most charming beaches in France. Picture quaint white-washed houses surrounded by hollyhocks leading to serene beaches like Plage de la Côte Sauvage. Paved with golden sand and set against the backdrop of azure Atlantic waves, it’s a slice of French coastal paradise.
Next, let us steer our compass south-west towards the Basque country’s rugged charm. Nestled amongst dramatic cliffs and verdant hillsides within the little seaside town of Guéthary is Parlementia Beach. A less crowded alternative to the vibrant Biarritz, Parlementia exudes an ancient charm capped with stunning views of the Basque coast. Whether you are seeking a peaceful sunbathing spot or pulsing waves for a surf, Parlementia offers the best of both worlds.
Crossing to the French Mediterranean coast, we land on the sun-kissed beaches of Corsica. Here you’ll find Rondinara Beach, a tranquil haven hidden between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio. Shaped like a shell and encased by sloping hills, its clear turquoise water sparkles under the Mediterranean sun, offering an idyllic setting for those craving tranquillity and natural beauty.
Our journey through France’s lesser-known beaches would not be complete without a visit to Plouha, home to Brittany’s highest cliffs and tucked-away beaches – Plage Bonaparte being a prime example. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, this secluded stretch of coast was a critical location in World War II, assisting many to escape to the UK. Today it offers a peaceful retreat, with wild Atlantic waves meeting sandy shorelines, ideal for leisurely strolls.
Now imagine a place where luscious green vineyards meet azure oceans—a place where you can sample delightful local wines after a day basking under the French Riviera’s hot sun. This is the little-known gem of the seaside town Bandol. Renowned for its red and rose wines, its unnamed pebble beach, hidden in a private bay, is one of its best-kept secrets. Lined with traditional old fisherman’s cabins, it offers a charming slice of real Mediterranean life-away from the glitzier towns along the Côte d’Azur.
On the east coast, in the region of Normandy, is Veules-les-Roses. Considered one of France’s most beautiful villages, this charming hamlet isn’t often associated with beach holidays. Yet the beach it overlooks is a mere 2km stretch of pure peace. Embellished with sparkly pebbles and dramatic cliffs, it offers visitors an opportunity to meander along the tiny alleyways shopping for local art and dazzling sea glass after a day of beach relaxation.
Lastly, we visit the wild and untouched beauty of Pinarellu Beach in Southern Corsica. While Palombaggia and Santa Giulia often take the spotlight on the Corsican beach scene, the lesser-known Pinarellu provides respite from the summer crowds. Framed by a lush pine forest, its powdery sand and shallow turquoise water make it perfect for families. As the sun sets, a stylish restaurant by the beach serves up locally sourced fare to finish your day on a high note.
As we close our journey of France’s lesser-known beaches, let this serve as a gentle reminder of the French charm that exists beyond its oft-explored tourist draws. From the breezy Atlantic to the peaceful Mediterranean, these underrated beaches offer a unique perspective of the country’s rich tapestry of landscapes. With each hidden gem combining breathtaking natural beauty, a rich history, and a splash of local culture, they promise an immersive and unforgettable French experience.
In partnership with Humanize AI, we endeavor to elevate your travel experiences by offering personalized journeys off the beaten track, focusing on the human traits that make travel worthwhile – discovery, pleasure, and connection. Feel free to connect with us to explore more such hidden gems in posh France or any other part of our incredible world! Here’s to traveling like a local, capturing the unraveled world in its uniqueness, and creating precious memories while we do so.
