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January 21, 2025

9 Best Places to Live on the Coast in France

Coastal France is comprised of The North Coast, The Atlantic Coast and the Mediterranean Coast, which has 2 distinct regions: Languedoc and Rhone (Provence and Riviera). This week we will highlight a few France's Best Places to Live on the Coast in France:

Saint-Malo

A picturesque coastal town located in the Brittany region, with a population of around 46,000 inhabitants. It is situated approximately 70 kilometers from the larger city of Rennes, which can be easily reached by train or car. Saint-Malo boasts a stunning waterfront, characterized by its sandy beaches, rugged coastline, and rocky outcrops. The town experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C (39°F) in winter to 19°C (66°F) in summer. There are plenty of recreational activities to enjoy in Saint-Malo, including water sports such as sailing, surfing, and swimming. The town is home to several parks, such as the Parc de la Briantais, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding area. The town is particularly well-known for its fresh seafood, which can be found at the local fish market, La Criée. Saint-Malo offers a high quality of life, with excellent local amenities, a strong sense of community, and easy access to the stunning Brittany coastline.

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La Rochelle

Located on the Atlantic Ocean, with a population of around 75,000, La Rochelle's waterfront is characterized by sandy beaches, a bustling marina, and a historic harbor, making it an attractive destination for tourists and locals alike. The climate in La Rochelle is temperate, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C (41°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in July. The city offers a variety of recreational activities, such as sailing, cycling, and golfing at Golf de La Prée La Rochelle. The city hosts several annual events, such as the International Film Festival and the Francofolies music festival, which attract visitors from around the world.

Antibes

With a population of approximately 76,000 residents, Antibes enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with average temperatures ranging from 9°C (48°F) in January to 24°C (75°F) in July. Water sports such as sailing, swimming, and diving are popular, while the nearby Cap d'Antibes offers scenic hiking trails. For those interested in golf, the Golf d'Opio Valbonne and Golf de Biot are two nearby golf clubs that cater to enthusiasts. Antibes is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its charming old town, bustling markets, and the famous Picasso Museum. The town is also home to Port Vauban, one of the largest marinas in Europe, which hosts numerous luxury yachts and sailing boats. The combination of stunning natural beauty, historical charm, and modern amenities make Antibes a highly desirable place to live and visit.

Nice

Located in the French Riviera, Nice boasts a beautiful waterfront with a mix of pebble beaches and a rugged coastline, offering stunning views and a unique beach experience. With a population of approximately 340,000, Nice is the fifth most populous city in France. The climate in Nice is characterized by warm, sunny summers and mild winters, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C (46°F) in January to 24°C (75°F) in July. This pleasant weather allows for a variety of recreational activities, such as swimming, sailing, and hiking. Some popular recreational spots in the city include the Promenade des Anglais, Castle Hill Park, and the Phoenix Park. People enjoy living in Nice for its beautiful scenery, pleasant climate, and vibrant lifestyle.