Les Sables d'Olonne

The Grande Plage in Les Sables d'Olonne is an iconic natural feature and the heart of the resort. This crescent-shaped bay with its fine sandy beach stretches for several kilometers and has been a popular destination for bathers since the 19th century. The development of Les Sables d'Olonne into a fashionable seaside resort is closely linked to the appeal of this beach, which is protected from strong waves by a defensive breakwater. Along the beach runs the historic "Remblai", a promenade lined with charming Belle Époque buildings and inviting you to stroll. Here you'll find ideal conditions for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports activities. Our tip: Visit the beach in the early morning to enjoy the tranquility and experience the vastness of the bay undisturbed. For impressive photos of the entire coastline, a walk along the Remblai is recommended, especially at sunset.

The port of Les Sables d'Olonne is located in the channel between the old town and the fishing district of La Chaume, reflecting the city's long maritime tradition. Les Sables is one of the larger fishing ports on the French Atlantic coast, primarily landing sole and other flatfish. Further inland lies the Port Olona marina, from which the Vendée Globe race starts every four years.Along the quays, you'll see fishing trawlers alongside sailing yachts. A small ferry crosses between the town side and La Chaume.Practical Tip: In the early morning, you can watch the boats coming in, while in the late afternoon, a walk along the piers to the harbor entrance is worthwhile.

The Musée de l'Abbaye Sainte-Croix (MASC) in Les Sables d'Olonne is a museum for modern and contemporary art, housed in the buildings of a former 17th-century monastery. It is known for its collection of works by painter Gaston Chaissac, as well as works by Victor Brauner and 20th and 21st-century art. Temporary exhibitions complement the collection. Our Tip: Plan your visit in the morning and combine it with a stroll through the nearby Île Penotte district.

The Remblai is Les Sables d'Olonne's waterfront promenade, situated on a seawall above the Grande Plage. With the advent of seaside resorts in the 19th century, it became the city's popular promenade. Along the promenade are cafés, restaurants, shops, and residential buildings; to the east lies the Casino. Our Tip: Early mornings are quiet; in the evening, enjoy a sunset stroll as the terraces fill.

The Grande Plage is the main beach of Les Sables d'Olonne, a sandy beach about three kilometers long in a south-facing bay. It became popular in the 19th century with the rise of seaside tourism and the arrival of the railway in 1866. The beach slopes gently and the bay is relatively sheltered, making it popular with families. In summer, it is lifeguarded; it's best to swim within the marked zones and pay attention to the flags. Above, the Remblai promenade runs with cafés and restaurants. Our Tip: Early in the morning, the beach is quietest. For a view over the bay, walk to the western end of the Remblai towards the harbor entrance.

The Port de Pêche et de Plaisance in Les Sables d'Olonne is a central hub of the city, which has shaped maritime life for centuries. Here, you'll experience the authentic atmosphere of an active fishing port, where in the mornings, trawlers arrive with their catch and the fish auction takes place. At the same time, the port serves as a modern marina, attracting sailors from all over the world and offering a lively scene. The promenade along the harbour invites you for a stroll, allowing you to observe the bustling activity of the fishermen and the elegance of the sailboats. Historically, the port was crucial for the development of Les Sables d'Olonne as a maritime trade and fishing centre. Our Tip: Visit the port early in the morning to witness the arrival of the fishing boats and the fish auction, offering an authentic local experience. For a relaxed evening atmosphere, a stroll along the quays is recommended, as the lights of the boats reflect in the water.