Blue Flag

Visit Blue Flag is an international label awarded each year to beaches and ports that meet strict environmental quality criteria. This label, a symbol of durability and cleanlinesshas become a benchmark in the field of tourism responsible. Certified destinations offer a guarantee of safety and comfort for visitors while preserving the environment.

In this article, we'll explore in detail the history of the Blue Flag label, its award criteria, and a list of the French towns and cities that benefit from this distinction. We'll also introduce you to other similar tourism labels in France, and the activities to be discovered in the towns awarded the label.

History of the Blue Flag

Created in 1985 by the NGO Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), the label has rapidly become a mark of international recognition. It is awarded to beaches and marinas that comply with a series of criteria in terms of environmental management water qualitysafety and waste management.

In France, the label has been awarded annually since 1987, and is now one of the most sought-after labels for coastal communities and port managers. It symbolizes not only a commitment to a sustainable sustainable tourismbut also a warranty for vacationers who care about the quality of their holiday environment.

To discover other tourism labels, read our detailed article here.

Blue Flag criteria

To obtain this environmental label, beaches and harbors must meet some forty criteria grouped into several categories. Here are the main criteria:

• Bathing water quality Water must comply with European standards and be free of pollutants.
• Environmental management Beaches and harbors must be maintained in a sustainable way, with particular attention paid to biodiversity.
• Environmental education Label sites must offer educational activities to raise public awareness of ecology and the protection of natural areas.
• Services and safety : Garbage garbage cans, sanitary facilities and first-aid stations are mandatory, as is easy access for people with reduced mobility.

French towns and regions with the Blue Flag label

Numerous towns in France have earned the Blue Flag for the quality of their beaches and harbors. Here is a selection of towns that have earned this distinction, broken down by region:

Hauts de France

• Le Touquet-Paris-Plage
• Berck-sur-Mer

Brittany

• Bénodet
• Saint-Malo

Normandy

• Deauville
• Trouville-sur-Mer

Nouvelle-Aquitaine

• Arcachon
• Lacanau

Occitanie

• Sète
• Leucate

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

• Cannes
• Saint-Raphaël

These towns are renowned for the quality of their infrastructure and the beauty of their beaches. Every year, they attract thousands of visitors in search of relaxation in unspoilt surroundings.

The most famous Blue Flag cities

A number of French cities stand out for their commitment to sustainable development. environmental protection and their tourist appeal:

• Cannes This city on the Côte d'Azur is famous for its sandy beaches and its Cannes Film FestivalIt has also been awarded the Blue Flag.
• Biarritz Known as a Mecca for surf and well-being, Biarritz has also been awarded the label.
• Le Touquet-Paris-Plage : Located in the north of France, this chic seaside resort is prized for its beaches and protected natural areas.

Other tourism labels in France

Visit Blue Flag is not the only label rewarding the efforts of local authorities in terms of sustainable development and quality. Here are a few other tourism labels in France:

• Station Verte This label is awarded to towns offering vacations in the heart of nature, far from the big conurbations.
• Towns and Villages in Bloom Awarded in recognition of efforts to beautify and respect the urban environment.
• Tourism & Handicap This label distinguishes tourist sites that are accessible to people with disabilities.

These labels, like the others, enable holidaymakers to choose destinations that meet precise criteria of quality and commitment to a sustainable lifestyle. responsible tourism.

Do you know the city of art and historythe small towns of character, or the France's most beautiful villages?

Activities and sites to visit in Blue Flag cities

Towns awarded the Blue Flag are often ideal destinations for a holiday. family vacation or stays to the green. Here are a few ideas for activities you can enjoy in these locations:

• Water sports : Approved beaches are ideal for sailing, surfing and windsurfing.
• Hiking : Many Blue Flag communities are located in unspoilt natural areas, offering great walking opportunities.
• Cultural tours : Many of the towns that have been awarded the label also boast a rich and varied cultural heritage. heritage cultural. For example, at Saint-MaloYou can visit the historic ramparts and explore the medieval alleyways.

Whether you want to enjoy the beaches or discover the local treasures, Blue Flag destinations offer an unforgettable experience that combines nature, culture and relaxation.

Blue Flag - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Blue Flag?

This is an international label awarded to beaches and harbors that meet strict environmental quality criteria.

How to obtain the Blue Flag for a beach or port?

To obtain this label, a beach or harbor must meet strict environmental criteria, particularly with regard to water quality and waste management.

How many beaches and harbours in France have the Blue Flag?

By 2023, more than 500 beaches and harbours in France have been awarded the label.

What are the main Blue Flag cities in France?

Cities like Cannes, Biarritz and Le Touquet are among the best known to have received this label.

What's the difference between the Pavillon Bleu and Station Verte?

The label focuses on the environmental quality of beaches and harbours, while Station Verte concentrates on the following aspects nature destinations.

Blue Flag - Conclusion

Visit Blue Flag represents a real guarantee of quality for holidaymakers wishing to enjoy clean beaches and well-maintained harbors. Many French cities, from North to Southhave been awarded this label, testifying to their commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development. sustainable development. This label not only attracts responsible tourismOur aim is not only to ensure that our visitors enjoy their vacations in places that respect nature.

For more information on Blue Flagvisit the dedicated page on Wikipedia here.