Pornichet and La Baule share a magnificent bay, fine sandy beaches and a seaside resort atmosphere. They couldn’t be any closer – they’re right next to each other, one leading straight into the other. To the uninitiated, they look exactly the same. Yet each town has its own distinct character. So, Why choose Pornichet over La Baule? How about a weekend or a few days by the sea?
A more intimate atmosphere 😎
Pornichet retains the authentic character of a small seaside resort and a laid-back town. Here, you can easily wander from the beach to the narrow streets of the town centre, from the shops to the market, and then on to the harbour or the old villas. The town is best explored on foot or by bike. The seafront, the historic districts and the various beaches offer a variety of atmospheres without the need to take the car. And all this in a family-friendly and unpretentious atmosphere.
But you start to feel the effects quite quickly. In La Baule, you might get the impression that even the sand has been briefed. In Pornichet, you let the wind decide your hairstyle! .
Three beaches, three atmospheres 🏖️
It’s one of the little pleasures of Pornichet: choosing your beach to suit your mood. Libraires Beach is the most central and lively. Bonne-Source offers a more natural atmosphere, whilst Sainte-Marguerite charms visitors with its quieter, unspoilt setting. Three beaches, three distinct characters, just a few minutes’ walk from one another.
A heritage to be discovered whilst strolling 🏠
Pornichet also boasts a remarkable seaside heritage. The Belle Époque villas, bay windows, turrets and architectural details tell the story of the resort and the arrival of the first holidaymakers.
There are also two heritage trails that allow you to discover some of the town’s most beautiful villas whilst out for a stroll.
This is perhaps one of Pornichet’s most distinctive charms: you often only need to look up to discover a piece of its history.
Pornichet, a good place to start 📍
Choosing Pornichet obviously doesn’t mean giving up on La Baule. The two resorts are neighbours and are very easy to get between. So you can enjoy the famous bay, explore La Baule, and then return to the tranquillity and more intimate atmosphere of Pornichet.
This is also what makes a stay at the Hôtel Sud Bretagne so appealing: situated in the historic centre of Pornichet, the hotel allows you to explore the town on foot whilst remaining close to La Baule and the many attractions of the Côte d’Amour.
So, Pornichet or La Baule? There isn’t necessarily a ‘best’ destination, even if we do have our own views on the matter. But if you’re looking for a resort on a human scale – lively without being too urban, rich in heritage and facing the sea – Pornichet is definitely worth a visit.
