Ort-Kategorie: Beaches
Plage de La Baule, 44500 La Baule-Escoublac
The Plage de La Baule is undoubtedly one of the most famous and spectacular coastal stretches on the French Atlantic coast. Nestled within the nearly nine-kilometer-long, crescent-shaped bay of La Baule-Pouliguen, fine golden sand stretches as far as the eye can see. This fashionable oasis combines historic seaside resort charm with endless beach fun for the whole family.
A Kilometers-Wide Paradise by the Ocean
With its impressive length, the Plage de La Baule offers the perfect spot for every taste. Thanks to its sheltered location in the large bay, the water here is calmer than along the open rocky coasts of the Atlantic. During the summer months, several supervised lifeguard stations ensure safe swimming. Whether it is long beach walks in the morning, building sandcastles with the kids, or water sports like sailing and stand-up paddling—the sheer expansiveness ensures that visitors are wonderfully spread out, even in the height of summer. Traditional beach clubs and charming cafés right on the sand round out the offerings.
Between Concrete High-Rises and Hidden Dream Villas
However, anyone strolling along the long waterfront promenade for the first time often gets an architectural surprise: the direct view of the coastline is now predominantly dominated by modern, functional concrete apartment blocks that shot up during the decades of mass tourism. The few historic villas and grand hotels in the original style that have survived right on the beachfront now look downright hemmed in, flanked on both sides by the massive concrete structures.
Yet the true architectural magic of La Baule is by no means lost—it has simply stepped back a little. You only need to leave the front row of the coastal road behind and take a few steps deeper into the town. Under the shady canopy of the vast pine forests, the true heart of the resort reveals itself: a remarkable variety of the typical, beautiful townhouses and historic villas from the Belle Époque, the Art Deco era, or in the Anglo-Norman style line the quiet avenues here, inviting you on a real journey of discovery away from the beach.
