Nestled by the ocean, Le Croisic is the little pearl of France's Atlantic coast. Its cobbled streets reveal colorful houses that bear witness to a rich history of fishing and trade. Let yourself be carried away by the waves that caress the cliffs, inviting you to contemplate. This little jewel marvels at its well-preserved authenticity and offers an escapade full of discoveries. A trip to Le Croisic promises to immerse you in an enchanting setting, blending tradition and marine beauty. Without further ado, here are the 11 must-do activities in Le Croisic.
1. The wild coastline of Le Croisic, a walk of escape
Looking for a change of scenery? Le Croisic is the perfect place to give your mind a break! Far from the hustle and bustle of beaches attracting locals and holidaymakers alike, the wild coastline of Le Crois ic offers a breath of fresh air. The rocks lead you, step by step, along a natural path. With its end-of-the-world feel, this wild path invites you to leave negative thoughts behind. Take in the breathtaking view over Le Croisic and let your gaze wander off into the distance... If you keep your eyes open, you'll also be able to observe certain curiosities, such as the Menhir de la Pierre Longue.
Another way to enjoy the view for longer is to follow the Sentier des Douaniers, then walk to the tip of Le Croisic, before returning along the Côte Sauvage. It's magical!
2. The Océarium du Croisic, a fun family visit
Treat yourself to a few hours of pure family fun at the Océarium du Croisic. This remarkable aquarium gives visitors a better understanding of marine diversity. In all, over 4,000 aquatic species are on display, allowing you to learn more about sometimes little-known species.
At 4 p.m., don't miss the penguin meal, a daily animation that lets you admire a small part of the life of these animals. Every day, a commentator will also help you discover the secret life of sharks and turtles, dispelling some preconceived ideas along the way. It's a family visit full of surprises! Click here to book your ticket for the Océarium du Croisic.
3. Les Jardins de la Mer, an unusual marine farm
Discover seaweed in all its facets at Jardins de la Mer, Loire-Atlantique's specialist in this aquatic plant. Renowned by top chefs for his seaweed caviar, this expert welcomes you for discovery initiations:
- seaweed harvesting,
- seaweed cooking,
- discover seaweed on the farm.
Please note! Workshops are by reservation only. You'll be immersed in a world that's often little-known, yet fascinating.
4. Le Croisic's little train, a moment of relaxation and discovery
Oyé Oyé! It's on the Place du 8 mai 1945, next to the anchor on the harbor, that you take the departure of the little train of Le Croisic. You're off for a 40-minute guided tour of the town and its coastline. From the Tréhic jetty to the Pierre Longue, via the Baie de Castouillet and the Rocher de l'Ours, the little tourist train allows you to observe the wonders of the wild coastline and Croisic in general. It's a pleasant ride that's sure to please young and old alike.
5. A taste of freedom on the Tréhic jetty
Now that you've seen it from afar, it's time to take in the sights on foot. The Tréhic jetty literally gives you the impression of being in the middle of the sea. The 858-meter walk to the Tréhic lighthouse gives you an exhilarating feeling of freedom. Caution is advised with children, as the ground can be slippery, but the walk is well worth it! From the lighthouse, take time to admire Le Croisic from a new vantage point, before returning peacefully to terra firma.
6. The Chapleau gallery, art in the spotlight
This temple to art is the perfect place to awaken your inner artist. Galerie Chapleau welcomes you to its exhibition space in the former hospital of Le Croisic. The building itself, dating from the XVIIᵉ century, is a veritable feast for the eyes. The premises originally belonged to painter Eugène-Jean Chapleau, before being bequeathed to the town by his widow. All the works of art then present in this exceptional residence were preserved, providing today a first-rate art gallery.
Between April and September, you also have the chance to admire temporary exhibitions, as well as the magnificent adjoining garden.
7. Enjoy the beaches of Le Croisic
One of Le Croisic's favorite family activities is the beach. And it's a good thing there are so many beautiful beaches on the peninsula! Depending on what you want to do and where you've set down your suitcases, there are several options open to you:
- saint Goustan beach,
- castouillet beach,
- port Lin beach,
- port aux Rocs beach,
- plage des sables menus.
in the mood for some adorable little beaches? Head for Baie du Crucifix and its more intimate beaches!
8. Visit Notre-Dame-de-Pitié church
Built in 1494 to replace a hospital chapel dedicated to Notre-Dame, thechurch of Notre-Dame-de-Pitié is an architectural treasure trove. Built by the Lamballe guild of master masons, it blends Breton flamboyant Gothic with Renaissance influences. Comprising three main naves, enlarged during construction, the church features tufa stone vaults adorned with 16thᵉ century murals. A pure splendor, a must-see!
Listed as a historic monument since 1906, the church suffered damage during the Revolution, but a restoration in the XIXᵉ century has preserved and enriched its heritage.
9. Lots of water sports in Le Croisic
Enjoying the beach is all well and good, but how about a little push out to sea? Here's a great opportunity to try your hand at windsurfing, or take a family kayak trip. More original, sea fishing can also be tried out in Le Croisic. Accompanied by experienced fishermen, such as those from La Toison d'Or, you can discover this must-do activity on the Atlantic coast.
10. The Painters' Colours Tour
Launched on August 19, 2015, the "Le Croisic, aux couleurs des peintres" (Le Croisic, in the colors of the painters) circuit features 25 desks scattered around the seaside town. Initially prized by artists of the XIXᵉ century, attracted by the port's dynamism, the colorful sails of the sardinière longboats, and the maritime scenes, Le Croisic has been metamorphosed by pictorial influences. The tour follows in the footsteps of illustrious artists such as Eugène Boudin, Paul Signac and Maxime Maufra, as well as locals like Émile Gautier. Reproductions of the paintings, created on site, are displayed on desks facing the places depicted, creating an immersive experience. Free leaflets are available from the tourist office and town hall.
11. Relax in Penn Avel Park
The 9-hectare park at Penn Avel was created at the end of the 19th century by the Levesque-Panneton family. Home to holm oaks and Mediterranean species, it has been managed by the town since its purchase by the Conservatoire du Littoral in 1970. Within the park, you'll find renovated villas housing a wave energy research laboratory.
The communal section is home to the Providence mill, built in 1841. The Société des Amis du Croisic has brilliantly restored this mill, a testimony to its rural past, with its own funds and subsidies, bringing back its wings in 2014. It's a great way to enjoy the greenery of the park, while learning something new!
Where to stay in Le Croisic?
Le Croisic is a great place to spend an inexpensive weekend in France. From small family-run hotels to fully-equipped establishments, you'll find the perfect pied-à-terre in Le Croisic.
- The quietest
With its sea view, Hôtel Les Vikings enjoys a privileged location. Located on the wild coast, it offers easy access to Port-Lin beach and the Sentier des Douaniers. Particularly quiet, it's the perfect place for a rejuvenating getaway: go here to book your stay !
- The best location
Take a seat with a sea view at the Hôtel-Restaurant l'Océan, a must in Croisic that you can book here. The restaurant's cuisine is absolutely succulent, and you can enjoy the view and the sunset through the huge bay windows. From family rooms to classic rooms, via the Tradition formula, everyone will find their own little cocoon at l'Océan.
- The most unusual
Take refuge in Au Fin Gourmet, a former shipowner's house in Le Croisic. Quiet and modern, the establishment boasts a prime location. It's the perfect place for a romantic getaway, with comfortable rooms and excellent cuisine: book your room right here in just a few clicks!
What to do in Le Croisic when it rains?
Head for the Océarium when it rains in Le Croisic! With over 50 basins housing thousands of aquatic species, your visit will be a feast for the eyes, far from the rain that has invited itself into your stay. Of course, the church of Notre-Dame-de-Pitié can also be visited on rainy days, while you wait for a little break in the weather.
Are you in a gourmet mood? We know just how you feel! The good news is that there are stores to eat! La Biscuiterie du Croisic, for example, is a first-rate address. Here, you can watch the making of Kouign Amann, before stocking up on good local produce. On the savoury side, continue your shopping at La Belle-Iloise, whose top-of-the-range canned fish delights the palates of gourmets.
Rain still lingering? Take the time to enjoy a fine local meal in a croisicais restaurant. Le Lenigo and l'Océan are just two of the many good addresses: you're in for a treat!
What to do around Le Croisic
A favorite destination for locals, La Baule-Escoublac is a little nugget to visit during your stay. Tempted by the experience? Discover the 13 must-do things to do in La Baule with your family!
Good to know: from La Baule to Le Croisic, you can take the Vélocéan, a 13.66 km green cycling path, which allows you to discover the entire coastline while enjoying nature. An unforgettable ride!
While you're in Loire-Atlantique, take the opportunity to visit the salt marshes. The region's salt marshes have long been at the heart of the local economy. The good news is that Guérande, the salt capital, is just 20 minutes from Le Croisic. Take a guided tour and you'll leave with plenty of salty information on the subject!
Also well known in the area, Pornichet is a lovely place to discover around Le Croisic. Particularly famous for its beaches, you can enjoy a number of activities here, such as watching a race at the racecourse or playing mini-golf. Youngsters will be delighted to take part in an escape game.
Finally, just a stone's throw from Le Croisic, head for Batz-sur-Mer, with its many attractions. The Batz salt marshes can be reached on foot from Le Croisic by the most courageous. All you have to do is complete your visit with a visit to the Musée des Marais Salants, and you're done!
Loire-Atlantique has many secrets to reveal, and Le Croisic is one of them. This peninsula is the ideal place to unwind during a holiday on the Atlantic coast. Got a little time left? Don't hesitate to discover Pornic's 15 must-sees during your stay. Another great way to discover the region!
