Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie combines the charm of a seaside resort with the atmosphere of a working fishing port. Take your pick of more than 20 postcard-perfect beaches, some featuring long arcs of golden sand and others fringed by grass-covered dunes.
Things to do in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie
A sun-drenched setting on the Côte de Lumière makes Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie one of the top beach destinations in France. Grande Plage is one of the most popular beaches, fringed by a three-kilometre-long stretch of golden sand. The breezy pedestrian promenade is lined with cafes and bistros where you can enjoy lunch with a view.
Kids love digging for clams and periwinkles in the sand at Demoiselles Beach in St Hilaire de Riez. When the sea breeze is up, Les Salins and Les Becs are prime kitesurfing beaches. The beginner-friendly beach break at Grande Plage is great for surfing. Rent a board or get started with lessons at the local surf school.
Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie is made up of several neighbourhoods, each with its own personality. Petite Ile, also known as the Moroccan District, is one of the prettiest enclaves. Wander along the narrow streets and admire centuries-old whitewashed houses with brightly painted doors and window shutters.
For decades, Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie anglers have been reeling in some of the best sardines in France. Local restaurants will tempt you with a variety of dishes featuring freshly caught sardines. You can also devour premium Rose de Saint Gilles shrimp, which is not only served locally but also in the finest Parisian restaurants. Fishing tours depart from the harbour and offer a chance to reel in your own ocean-fresh sardines.
Getting around Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie
Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie is located in the Pays de la Loire region, a one-hour drive from Nantes and five hours from Paris. The town is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Trains run between Paris and Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie in around four hours and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is a five-hour drive away.