The secret of Fontaine aux Bretons beach

On the Côte de Jade, in the Pays de la Loire region, secret places invite you to slow down with Slow village. The Fontaine aux Bretons beach is one of these treasures, a natural interlude where the only rhythm is that of the Atlantic. It's this philosophy of disconnection that we cultivate in our open-air hotel in Pornican invitation to discover the simple beauty of the Pays de Retz.

To reach it, two approaches in harmony with the spirit of the place:

• By car: free, shaded parking is available around 300 metres away. From there, simply follow the path gently down to the sea. This short approach walk is already part of the experience.
• On foot: the most authenticaccess to Fontaine aux Bretons beach is via the famous Sentier des Douaniers (GR®8). By taking this coastal path, you choose to fully immerse yourself in the coastal landscape. The beach appears as a reward, a peaceful stop along the way.

The advantages of this wild cove

Pornic's Fontaine aux Bretons beach is not your average sandy beach. It's a fifty-meter-long sandy cove on the water's edge, bordered by cliffs that protect it from the Atlantic swell. Its wild character is its greatest asset, with a magnificent view of the island of Noirmoutier on a clear day. It's no coincidence that the site is classified as a Natural Zone of Ecological, Faunistic and Floristic Interest (ZNIEFF), a label that guarantees the preservation of its biodiversity.

No noisy infrastructure here. Swimming is unsupervised, and there are no showers or toilets. This deliberate simplicity preserves the tranquility of the site. As for access for people with reduced mobility (PRM), the natural configuration of the cove does not allow this. However, the Loire-Atlantique department is committed to inclusive tourism, and other beaches in Pornic, such as Plage de la Joselière, Plage de la Birochère and Plage de Portmain in Pornic, have been fitted out and certified.

Our favorite: the true charm of Fontaine aux Bretons beach is revealed at low tide. That's when the rocks form a multitude of nooks and crannies, a kind of private lounge overlooking the ocean, perfect for putting down your towel and feeling alone in the world, far from the hustle and bustle of the larger beaches.

• Fishing on foot: at low tide, the sand and rocks are an ideal playground for fishing enthusiasts. Armed with a bucket and a landing net, you can dig up barnacles, periwinkles and green crabs. A simple, fun activity, perfect for the whole family.
• Hiking: the beach is a crossing point for the Sentier des Douaniers. You can set off for a short stroll to the nearby fisheries or for a longer hike along the Côte de Jade, discovering coves and panoramas at every turn.
• Contemplation: sometimes, the best activity is to do nothing. Public benches overlook the beach, inviting you to sit and watch the waves roll in, read a book or simply admire the sunset over the Atlantic. Sunset is a special moment, as is sunrise for the early risers. For the best photos of Fontaine aux Bretons beach, evening light is ideal, when the sun gilds the sand.

Our tips for making the most of the beach (visitor reviews)

Reviews of Fontaine aux Bretons beach are unanimous: visitors praise its " soothing calm "and its location " far from the hustle and bustle of Pornic". It's a place to recharge your batteries.

• Check the weather and tide times: this is the most important advice. The weather can change quickly on the coast, from bright sunshine to gusty rain. It's a good idea to check the weather forecast before setting off. The appearance of Fontaine aux Bretons beach changes radically with the tide. Low tide is ideal for fishing and exploring the rocks, while high tide reduces the amount of sand. The height of the water varies greatly.
• Parking: parking is free, but capacity is limited. In high season, it is advisable to arrive early in the day to find a space without difficulty.

Pets: leashed dogs are welcome on the beach from October to March, outside the peak season.

The beach area to continue the experience

The experience doesn't stop at the water's edge. The Fontaine aux Bretons beach is a gateway to the other wonders of the Côte de Jade and Pays de Retz. Extend your day by discovering the heart of Pornic, a town that has preserved its fishing port soul.

For a gourmet break, the quays of the marina and the upper town abound with restaurants where you can sample the treasures of theAtlantic. Travelers' reviews often recommend a visit to Pornic's historic earthenware factory, for an immersion in local craftsmanship, or venturing out to the Breton marshes for peaceful birdwatching. The region, easily accessible from Nantes or Saint-Nazaire, invites discovery.

Push your stroll to other Pornic beaches such as the beach at La Bernerie-en-Retz or the landscapes of Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef. For families, the Val Saint-Martin playground is a relaxing area with playgrounds and sports fields, perfect for an active day out in nature.

La Fontaine aux Bretons beach is much more than a destination; it's a philosophy. It's the choice of a parenthesis of simplicity, a return to basics to the rhythm of the Atlantic Ocean. An experience to be lived to the full by staying in our open-air hotel Slow Village Pornic, your base camp for discovering the hidden treasures of the Côte de Jade in Loire-Atlantique.