Saint Palais sur mer: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
The municipality of Saint-Palais-sur-Mer is located on the enchanting Côte de Beauté in western France. Here you will find the famous Pont du Diable, an offshore rock formation. The highlights of the place include the beaches as well as the Raymond Vignes Park with its picturesque lake and dense tree population.
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Saint Palais sur mer - Must-see attractions
The Devil's Bridge
The creation of the Pont du Diable is associated with a medieval legend. According to it, a fisherman who got caught in a storm at sea made a pact with the devil out of sheer fear of death. The devil then built the rock bridge named after him, which saved the fisherman's life. Over the years, 300 boulders were taken from the rock formation, from which the Cordouan lighthouse, commissioned in 1611, was built.
Fishing huts with lift nets
A long wooden pier leads from the beach to the fishermen's homes. A square net is lowered into the waves from the huts to catch flatfish. Especially in the morning, the Cabanes à carrelets create atmospheric photo opportunities on the Atlantic. On the coastal path that runs directly along the sea, you can take walks in both directions and let the Cabanes à carrelets impress you from above. At low tide, you can also climb around the surrounding rocks.
Great Coast Beach
The picturesque beach near Saint Palais sur Mer delights with fine sand and a shallow shore, making it ideal for children to splash around in the water. Along the expansive coast, you can find a quiet spot even in the summer months. During the transitional seasons, the region becomes a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The winds in spring and autumn guarantee perfect conditions for wind and kite surfing as well as sailing. The nearest cafes and restaurants are just a few minutes' walk away.
Cordouan Lighthouse
By boat, you can reach the lighthouse located off the headland of Grave. At low tide, it is also accessible on foot. However, visitors should not forget their water shoes. The lighthouse, built in 1611, rises six stories high. Inside, the maritime monument houses a chapel, the Girondins Hall, and the King's quarters. A spiral staircase with 301 steps leads you to the top of the gem. Tickets for a visit can be obtained from the lighthouse keeper.
Saint Palais Conch
Stroll from the town center of Saint Palais sur Mer to the seashore and let your soul unwind at the Conche de Saint Palais. In the sheltered bay, the water is often mirror-smooth, promising perfect conditions for swimming. During your walks, you will pass several cafés and restaurants along the promenade, inviting you to linger during the day. First-class fish restaurants offer the catch of the day, accompanied by the world-famous wines from the region around nearby Bordeaux.
Saint Augustin by the Sea
In and around Saint Augustine by the sea, there are numerous excursion destinations. One of them is the Zoo de la Palmyre. You will find the extensive area in a dense pine forest. Polar bears, monkeys, and penguins are some of the inhabitants. The 8,000-hectare city forest La Coubre is perfect for extensive hikes. With a bit of luck, you might spot a European pond turtle, a rare freshwater turtle. A unique flora can be seen in the marsh of Saint-Augustin. Numerous cattle graze on the wet meadows.
Saint Palais sur mer - Secret spots
Church Saint-Palais
In Saint-Palais-sur-Mer lies a hidden gem, the Église Saint-Palais. This charming church, nestled in the picturesque landscape, is a true masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. A fascinating fact is that it was built in the 12th century and has preserved its original beauty to this day.
Artist Studio Old Customs House
The Maison des Douanes, once a customs station, is now an artist's studio with a breathtaking sea view. A fascinating fact is that it was built in the 19th century to combat smugglers at sea.
Raymond Vignes Amusement Park
Near Saint-Palais-sur-Mer lies the Parc de loisirs Raymond Vignes, a true paradise for nature lovers. This park is unique as it is built on the remains of an ancient Roman villa. With its lush green spaces and numerous recreational activities, it is a perfect place for a relaxing day.
Customs officer path
The landscape at Saint-Palais-sur-Mer is home to the Sentier des Douaniers. This breathtaking coastal path, once used by customs officers, offers unparalleled views of the sea. Interestingly, this path is also a paradise for bird watchers, as over 270 bird species are native here.
Saint Palais sur mer - In 3 days
Day 1
Start your first day in Saint Palais Sur Mer with a leisurely walk along the picturesque coast. Begin at Plage du Bureau, one of the most beautiful beaches in the region, and enjoy the fine sand and clear water. Make a detour to Le Pont du Diable, an impressive rock formation that offers spectacular photo opportunities. After the morning walk, you can look around the town center and explore the charming boutiques and local shops. Here you will find handmade souvenirs and regional products that are perfect as gifts. For lunch, we recommend visiting one of the many cozy places that offer fresh seafood and local specialties. Be sure to try the oysters and fresh fish, which are particularly popular in this region. In the afternoon, you can visit the Maison des Douanes, a small museum that highlights the history of the region and its connection to the sea. End the day with a relaxing walk along the promenade and enjoy the sunset over the Atlantic.
Day 2
Start your second day with a visit to the Parc de l'Estuaire, a beautiful nature park offering breathtaking views of the Gironde estuary. Take a hike on the well-marked trails and discover the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the spectacular landscapes. After a morning in nature, you can head to the Cordouan Lighthouse, often referred to as the "King of Lighthouses." A boat trip will take you to this historic landmark, which you can tour to learn more about its fascinating history. For lunch, return to the city and enjoy a meal in one of the many charming eateries offering regional specialties. In the afternoon, a visit to the market of Saint Palais Sur Mer is recommended, where you can discover fresh produce and local delicacies. End the day with a relaxing evening on the beach or a stroll through the picturesque streets of the city.
Day 3
First, explore the Château de la Roche Courbon today. This magnificent castle, surrounded by beautiful gardens and an idyllic lake, offers a fascinating insight into the history and architecture of the region. Join a guided tour to admire the opulent interiors and well-preserved furniture. After visiting the castle, continue to the Abbey of Fontdouce, a quiet and spiritual place known for its Romanesque architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Explore the ancient cloisters and enjoy the tranquility of this historic site. For lunch, return to the city and sample more regional delicacies in one of the cozy eateries. In the afternoon, a visit to the local art museum is recommended, where you can discover works by regional artists and interesting exhibitions. End your day with a relaxing stroll along the promenade, where you can enjoy the sunset over the water.