HIGHLIGHTS

• see where thousands of craft landed on the D-Day beaches
• marvel at the Abbaye Mont-St-Michel as it magnificently crowns the tiny island beneath it
• surf on the pounding breakers of the Atlantic on the Aquitaine coast
• visit the picturesque port of Collioure whose beauty has inspired artists including Matisse
• observe the abundant amphibians and waterfowl in the vast wetland of the Camargue
• soak up the vibrant atmosphere at the daily fish market in Marseille
• take a day trip to the tiny principality of Monaco, the playground of the rich and famous

Coastal Regions

Once again the diversity of the French landscape can be found in the coastlines that are lapped by the rolling waves of the Channel, the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. In the north, the rugged coastline of Brittany and the windswept beaches of Normandy. Further west the long sandy beaches of Vendee and Charentes sweeping down to the Cote d’Argent in Aquitaine, a mecca for lovers of surfing and windsurfing. In the south, the rocky coves of the Languedoc Roussillon coastline, where the mountains merge with the sea.

Also in the south the mysterious salt marshes of the wild Camargue, the coastline then continues east to the lively port of Marseille and the fascinating craggy inlets, the captivating Callanques. But the most infamous stretch of coastline in the southern region of France is the Cote d’Azur boasting the glitzy resorts of Cannes, Nice and Antibes, which, combined with numerous beach activities and the clear sparkling waters of the Mediterranean make this a premier holiday destination.

France has a wealth of various coastal holidays to suit the whole family. Ponder at the beaches of the D-Day landings in Normandy or scuba dive off the Brittany coast.
Families with young children can enjoy the safe, shallow waters of the Ile de Re in Poitou-Charentes or the adrenalin junkies can surf the crashing waves of the Atlantic in Aquitaine. Animal and bird lovers can indulge themselves in the abundant wildlife to be found in the Camargue. 

For the less energetic holidaymaker simply laze on the superb sandy beaches of the Cote d’Azur dipping your toes in the crystal clear Mediterranean Sea.

Click on the coastal area of your choice for a summary of the scenery and activities available