Pontaillac beach in Royan
Discover Pontaillac beach in Royan on the Côte de Beauté
Pontaillac beach in Royan is a 400-metre-long family beach of fine sand that is popular and well-known residents and holidaymakers alike. It is located in the neighborhood Pontaillac, north of the town of Royan, and bordering the commune of Vaux Sur Mer.
It is located in an urban area, with the Royan casino and two restaurants at its center, and houses of remarkable architecture and rocky cliffs on either side.
It's possible to swim, with lifeguards on duty in July and August, but it's also possible to surf or bodyboard, as the spot is well known to surfers as a fallback spot in the event of heavy swells. The promenade along Pontaillac beach has been redeveloped to offer an impressive view of the site.
It also has a kids' club, a sailing club and a surf club, and deckchairs can be rented in season. There's also a pétanque court to the west. To the south of the beach, across the road, is a mini-golf course.
You can also visit the town of Royanand enjoy other beaches in and around Royan
RoyanThe town of St. Tropez, in the south-west of France, is a pretty little town on the Atlantic coast. It lies at the entrance to the Gironde estuary, and is surrounded by seaside resorts.
On the other side of the road along the beach, you can enjoy the terraces of bars, restaurants and ice-cream parlors. Please note that pets are not allowed. It's easy to get to the seafront in Royan from Pontaillac beach, or in Vaux Sur Mer.
Close to the beach are the Musée de Royan and the Notre-Dame-des-Anges chapel. Further afield, you can enjoy the Foncillon beach, the Grande Conche beach, or even visit the Royan church.
Things to do around Pontaillac beach
Ideal for a refreshing getaway, Pontaillac beach, located in the heart of Royan's residential district, lends itself to numerous activities in the surrounding area.
You can start by taking advantage of the water sports: the spot is renowned for the surfthe bodyboard and the windsurfing. For those wishing to learn or perfect their skills, several specialized schools, such as ARUMAA, offer surf lessons just a stone's throw from the beach.
Nearby, for a nature or play break, visit Planet Exotica. This 7.6-hectare botanical and wildlife park immerses visitors in the heart of urban marshes, with terrariums, themed areas and even pedal boats on the calm waters..
In terms of heritage, don't miss the Royan Museumlocated in the old Pontaillac market hall. It traces the local history, from its Gallic origins to the architecture of the 1950s.. The Notre-Dame-des-Anges chapelThis beautiful neo-Gothic building, erected in 1891, survived the bombardments of 1945..
For a pleasant stroll, explore the Pontaillac marshesa protected natural area, rich in flora and avifauna, surprisingly well preserved despite the urbanization of the area. A wonderful opportunity to indulge in a bucolic moment.
Finally, for gourmet strollers or lovers of local heritage, the walk along the beach will take you to the casino de Royanbuilt in the 1930s - a place steeped in history, a true vestige of the elegance of yesteryear.
Find out more about Pontaillac beach, it's over here!
