Regional info

France

The French Atlantic coast runs from the southern edge of the Brittany peninsula to the Spanish border and is known as the 'West Coast'.  Put another way, it runs from Nantes to Biarritz or, if you prefer, from the  Loire estuary to the Pyrenees.  The region is considered a quiet and peaceful area but history shows this was not always the case.  Farmers in the Vendée region did not agree with the French revolution, which marked the start of a bloody civil war from 1793 to 1796. These days the Vendée is renowned for its beautiful beaches, making this area a perfect family holiday destination. There are as many hours of sunshine here as the Côte d'Azur but the Atlantic coast differs from the Mediterranean Sea.  In certain areas the waves are huge, perfect for surfers who love a challenge. South from the Gironde estuary is the long, thin area known as Aquitaine, which boasts sheltered lakes and inland seas that are ideal for young children.  Apart from the well known Dune du Pilat, which is the highest sand dune in Europe, the West Coast is fairly flat with a wide range of cycle routes to suit the whole family.