The Vauban Citadel of Belle-Île-en-Mer: History, Heritage, and a Tour
Overlooking the Atlantic, the Vauban citadel is the heart and soul of Belle-Île-en-Mer: a military masterpiece that brings three centuries of French history to life.
During your vacation at Slow Village Pornicin northwest France, take time to explore the beautiful beaches of this corner of Loire-Atlantique (Pays de la Loire region), in particular plage des Sablonsa little gem on the rocky coast of Sainte-Marie-sur-Mer, just 10 minutes from our open-air hotel.
Away from the hustle and bustle of Pornic's beaches, this small cove with its orange sand nestles at the foot of a cliff. at the foot of a cliff. Mostly frequented by regulars, it's a secret spot a secret spot that you'd like to keep all to yourself. Barely 100 meters long, the des Sablons beach in Pornic promises a peaceful, intimate atmosphere. Framed by rocks that form a bathing area, it offers an unobstructed view view of the carrelets. Its crystal-clear water, although slightly cooler than on other Pays de la Loire beaches, adds to its wild charm.
A real postcard setting, this unsupervised beach presents no major danger, apart from the presence of submerged rocks at high tide.
To fully appreciate the beauty of the area, the best way is to hike the coastal trail (GR340) that runs along the cliffs:
The trail is well-maintained but retains its wild character. Allow about 45 minutes for the round trip if you’d like to explore the various lookout points around the peaks.
The light is especially beautiful at the end of the day, at sunset, when the rocks take on orange hues.
You must stay on the marked trails. The cliffs are crumbly, and the wind can blow strongly on this exposed coastline.
For over a hundred years, the Vierge du Rocheralso known as the Vierge Bleue, has watched over bathers on the plage des Sablons, Pornic. Take the stairs winding up the cliff, and you'll discover her statue sheltered in a rock cavity. It was in 1880 that a neighboring landowner, miraculously saved after a fall from the rocks, commissioned the erection of this protective figure as a sign of his gratitude. In 1971, the Virgin was desecrated, and the people of Pornic rebuilt it from the debris found. Today, the Vierge Bleue is protected behind a grille, and a few believers place petitions for mercy or thanks on it.
Between two swims on the Sablons beach in Pornic or siestas on its fine sand, take a stroll and contemplate the magnificent landscapes of this corner of the Pays de la Loire.
Overlooking the Sablons beach, the sentier des Douaniers offers superb views of the wild Loire-Atlantique coastline, cliffs, coves and traditional fisheries. On a clear day, you'll be able to see out to sea the Ile du Pilier, opposite the port of L'Herbaudière, as well as the island of Noirmoutier and the Bay of Bourgneuf.
Located on rue des Sablons in Sainte-Marie-sur-Mer (Pornic), the plage des Sablons seduces with its natural setting. Access, however, is quite steepwhich can be difficult for some people. At the top of the beach public toilets are available for your convenience.
A small parking lot is located near the plage des Sablonsbut space is limited, especially in high season. The best way to get there is on foot along the coastal path.
In addition to the idyllic setting, you can take a gourmet break at gourmet break at La Cabane des Sablonsa friendly beach bar offering homemade ice creams, salads, wraps and sandwiches, perfect for a relaxing break between swims.
In addition to plage des Sablons in Pornicother beaches are well worth a visit during your stay. Put down your towel La Noëveillard beachPornic's largest beach, located at the foot of the marina. You can also visit La Birochère beachbeach, appreciated for its wild aspect, and don't miss the Fontaine aux Bretons beachfar from the hustle and bustle, in the heart of unspoilt nature.
In Loire-Atlantique, you'll also find Gohaud beach in Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef, Rinais beach in La Bernerie-en-Retz, Saint-Michel beach in Batz-sur-Mer and Porcé beach in Saint-Nazaire.
Between plage des Sablons in Pornic and the other beautiful beaches of Loire-Atlantique, your stay in the Pays de la Loire region promises to be rich in swimming and beautiful scenery!
Overlooking the Atlantic, the Vauban citadel is the heart and soul of Belle-Île-en-Mer: a military masterpiece that brings three centuries of French history to life.
A symbol of independence and the town’s fortified past, the Clock Tower is Anduze’s must-see landmark. Just a few minutes from the Slow Village, this square tower bears witness to the turbulent history of the Cévennes and serves as a striking visual landmark amid the picturesque narrow streets of the historic center.
Nicknamed the “Giant of the Loire Valley,” the Château de Brissac is a striking sight with its seven stories and monumental facades. Just a few minutes from the Slow Village, this unique historic monument—still home to the family of the Dukes of Brissac—opens its doors to you for a fascinating journey through period furnishings, a Belle Époque theater, and prestigious cellars.
Tucked away in the town of Sauzon, sheltered from the prevailing winds, the cove of Port Poyed is a hidden gem for lovers of unspoiled nature. This secluded sandy and pebble beach is perfect for a relaxing swim along the coastal trail during your stay at Slow Village.
With its peaceful river, gourmet market and preserved heritage, Siorac-en-Périgord offers an authentic interlude in the heart of Périgord Noir. A village where time slows down and every moment is savored.
What could be more immersive than a horseback ride to explore the hidden trails of the Périgord? Amid oak forests and prehistoric valleys, horseback riding offers a slow, contemplative pace—perfect for reconnecting with the wild nature of the Dordogne.
The Île de Ré is a real little paradise, a natural and unspoilt place. Its authentic charm is revealed through its wild beaches, villages and numerous activities. It's an ideal destination for lovers of nature and well-being.
In this guide, we help you estimate and structure your event budget, based on the number of participants, duration and additional services.