Discover an enchanting landscape in Pornichet, for a holiday combining history and nature. This little jewel of the Loire-Atlantique region reveals its charms through its pretty streets and preserved architecture. Surrounded by a wild and generous nature, this place seduces visitors with its warm atmosphere. Discover the perfect balance between tradition and modernity, and marvel at the panoramic views. Petit Futé invites you to explore the 10 things to do in Pornichet.
1. Enjoy Pornichet's beautiful beaches
Pornichet attracts families looking for pleasant beaches. In this pretty seaside resort, you'll find 3 with changing atmospheres:
- La plage des Libraires: also known as Grande plage, its 2 km of fine sand invite you to relax. The Promenade, bordering the beach, also offers great walks, all with a breathtaking panorama of the bay.
- Bonne Source beach: ideal for fishing and water sports such as bodyboarding.
- Sainte-Marguerite beach: a discreet, family-friendly beach with supervised swimming, and various amenities nearby (free parking, picnic area, playground, etc.).
Whether you're in Pornichet for relaxation or surfing, you'll find the beach for you!
2. Pornichet's heritage trails
More than just a seaside resort, Pornichet boasts a rich heritage, which you can explore on two routes. Visit Downtown Tourwhich lasts 2 h 30, runs from the Château des Tourelles to the Square du Calvaire. One thing leads to another, and you'll discover the life of a wealthy shipowner, the beginnings of thalassotherapy in the town, and buildings of yesteryear with sometimes surprising architecture.
For its part, Le Sainte-Marguerite tour lasts around 1 h 30, taking you from Sainte-Marguerite beach to the exceptional villa designed by Pornichet's first mayor: Villa Ker Juliette. There are many other Belle Epoque villas along the way, including that of a former Russian baroness.
Enjoyed exploring Pornichet's heritage? Then continue your efforts with Pornichet's discovery walks. They, too, are full of surprises!
3. Stroll through Pornichet's market
You won't have any trouble finding it, because Pornichet's market is... quite simply, on the Place du Marché! On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, from 7am to 1pm, many colorful stalls come together to offer you their best products. Meat, fish, cheese, fruit and vegetables are all on offer, allowing you to discover the local produce. It's the perfect opportunity to meet local producers and pick up a few goodies along the way. All you have to do is treat yourself after your morning stroll!
4. Watch a horse race at the racecourse
On the Boulevard de Saint-Nazaire, you'll find Pornichet's famous racecourse, a veritable showcase for the town. A must-see for horse racing fans, it also welcomes visitors curious to discover this fascinating world. Since 1907, the racecourse has undergone major renovations, making it one of the region's leading leisure venues. In addition to horse racing, various shows and events are organized here throughout the year.
5. Follow Pornichet's coastal path
The Pornichet coastal path, once used by customs officers to check boats, stretches 13 kilometers along the coast between Pornichet and Saint-Nazaire. It starts at Pointe du Bé (or Bec) and ends at Plage de M. Hulot. This picturesque itinerary has been carefully laid out, ensuring the safety of walkers while preserving the surrounding flora.
Reserved exclusively for pedestrians, there is an adjoining cycle path. Right from the start, you'll marvel at the natural beauty of the Atlantic coast. Between maritime history and unspoilt landscapes, the ride promises to be a magical escape.
6. Learn to surf in Pornichet
The Atlantic coast is renowned for some of the best surfing spots in the world. Are you tempted by this sport but haven't yet taken the plunge? Then head to a surf school, such as Surf & Rescue, for an introduction to the joys of surfing. Different formulas are available for different ages and levels. Choose from 1 to 5 surf lessons, to satisfy your desire to tease the wave... Already surfing? Rent your equipment from a specialist like Ride All, and you're all set. Ready, set, go!
7. The marina, between stroll and escape
The beaching harbor and deepwater marina await you, with over 1,500 boats. This is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll in the Loire-Atlantique region! After a good day on the beach or in the water, take the time to stroll around and admire the boats waiting for their next turn at sea. The stroll invites you to relax, for a welcome break... Then, still in this state of plenitude, take the time to have a drink on the terrace of a café, admiring, why not, a pretty sunset.
8. Water sports on the Atlantic
Let's talk about water sports! There are plenty of them on the coast, with the waves offering a wonderful playground. For example, you can rent :
- jet ski,
- flyboard,
- towed buoys.
Why not take advantage of your vacation to try parasailing? Towed by a boat, you'll soar high above Pornichet and one of the most beautiful bays in the world. A moment of pure magic, where escape mingles with the exhilarating feeling of total freedom.
In a softer style, you can also book a boat trip to discover the coast and surrounding area at a leisurely pace.
9. A day at the spa to relax
Don't you think you'd like a little rest after all that activity? The Relais Thalasso des Tourelles awaits you with its à la carte treatments. While it's possible to stay in this 4-star hotel, you can also take advantage of the treatments on offer. On the one hand, the marine spa opens its doors to you, offering a heated seawater pool, saunas and a hammam. A fitness area and à la carte packages are also available.
In the body care department, you can simply relax... Island scrubs, detox treatments, cocooning massages: there's something for every taste and every need.
10. Unusual activities in Pornichet
A variety of original activities are available for a weekend or vacation in Pornichet. Most of them can also be enjoyed when it's raining. To begin with, Escape Yourself Pornichet invites you to decipher its coded messages, in order to get out of a dizzying escape game. It's a great idea for a family outing, to strengthen bonds around a shared activity requiring everyone's cooperation... while having fun!
Then it's on to L'Hachez-Vous, for a real axe-throwing experience! With its 7 targets and games bar, it's the ideal place for fun for 14-year-olds and over (minors must be accompanied by an adult, of course). Round off your adventures with friends or family at Hangar Games, where virtual reality takes you on a sensory journey of a lifetime!
Where to stay in Pornichet?
Pornichet is the ideal destination for a cheap weekend break in France. To make the most of it, you'll have no trouble finding a quiet hotel, ideally with an ocean view.
- Top of the range
More than a hotel, the Château des Tourelles, located on the Pointe du Bé, is a place of well-being. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, thalassotherapy and à la carte treatments. Click here to book your stay!
- The most modern
Find comfort and modernity at Escale Oceania Pornichet, an establishment suited to families and lovers alike, which you can book in just a few clicks here. Ideally located in the town center, it offers easy access to all amenities. The decor is well-polished and up to date, and there's plenty of attention to detail. A great address!
- The best location
Ideally located near the beach, Le Marina offers welcoming rooms at affordable prices, bookable right here. The uncluttered decor is well thought-out, providing a pleasant setting to set down your suitcases during your stay. The beach is just a two-minute walk away, which is ideal when traveling with children.
The region is so beautiful! To make the most of it, don't hesitate to get out of Pornichet! There are plenty of beautiful places to visit, as shown by these 15 things to do in Pornic, about half an hour away. You can also visit La Baule, with its long-standing reputation on the Atlantic coast, before discovering the must-sees at Le Croisic, a little nugget on the Atlantic coast.
