- \n
- Firstly<\/strong>, it’s not as hot here, and the gentle sun warms without leaving burns on your skin. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Secondly<\/strong>, the healing air, which is so necessary for small children. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Thirdly<\/strong>, the French and Spanish Atlantic \u2013 it’s pure romance: the most beautiful landscapes, oysters and wine. And on the northern seas there is a unique cozy atmosphere all their own.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
I recommend spending a calm and relaxing vacation on the northern coast of Belgium, France, Spain or Germany.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Canary Islands: which island to choose for your vacation?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Belgium \u2013 Imperial Coast<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/oostende-2346999_1280-1024x768.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Belgian North Sea coast is only 70 km long, but it can become a paradise for everyone who is not afraid of cool water and dreams of escaping the hot sun. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The swimming season is short and lasts about two months \u2013 from June 15 to August 15<\/strong>. On a small stretch along the coast there are 13 resorts<\/strong>, each with its own character and unique atmosphere. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Things to do during your vacation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Belgian coast offers sports and recreational opportunities for all tastes: you can rent a bike, ride a sailboat or go fishing. The wide beach is ideal for games and long walks. You can stroll for hours along the promenade, stopping in caf\u00e9s to taste seafood and Belgian beer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ostend<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/sea-575096_1280-1024x682.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nOstend<\/strong> is the main resort of the Belgian coast<\/strong> (translated as “Eastern edge”), connected by commuter train to Brussels. Ostend is the result of a grand project by King Leopold II, who decided to create one of the most stylish seaside resorts in Europe\u2014and he succeeded. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here lives history and the refined atmosphere of a seaside resort floats in the air. Choose one of the boulevard caf\u00e9s serving Ostend oysters\u2014they are very good with white wine. Visit the Ensor House-Museum or the real Mercator sailing ship<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wide sandy beaches gently slope into the sea. Children have plenty of space to dig in the sand and play on various playgrounds. Adults can swim and sunbathe under the gentle northern sun, not fearing to get burned\u2014the tan here is healthier than in southern Europe due to iodine and salts dissolved in the air. Lifeguard services operate, ensuring the safety of holidaymakers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
De Haan<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/architecture-327082_1280-1024x755.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nOr go to De Haan<\/strong> \u2013 a coastal village with absolutely beautiful and unusual architecture. The entire promenade is built up with fairy-tale cottages<\/strong> with red roofs. Because of these doll-like houses, De Haan is often called the most beautiful village on the coast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Knokke-Heist<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/belgium-2628371_1280-1024x717.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nKnokke-Heist<\/strong> means “to see and be seen.” It is the most exclusive seaside resort on the Belgian coast. 12 kilometers of white sand beaches are ideal for a peaceful holiday. For those who like to shop while on vacation, there are literally hundreds of luxury boutiques. For more sophisticated tastes, you can visit dozens of galleries. And of course, as throughout the coast, Knokke-Heist has many restaurants serving fresh seafood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oostduinkerke<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/animal-7088594_1280-1024x622.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe charming village of Oostduinkerke<\/strong>\u2014only here and nowhere else in the world can you see how horse riders catch shrimp<\/strong>. This unique spectacle has been recognized as a UNESCO Intangible World Heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bruges<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/belgium-4012102_1280-1024x681.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nVery close to the coast is the most beautiful city in Belgium \u2013 Bruges<\/strong>. Bruges is the capital of Flanders and closely resembles the towns from Charles Perrault’s fairy tales. The city has preserved its medieval flair to the maximum: local architecture is dominated by sharp roofs and whimsically decorated facades. In Bruges, you should do everything real tourists do: ride in a carriage on the cobblestones, stroll through the boutiques and check out the local Belgian lace that has been traditionally handcrafted here, buy famous Belgian chocolate and try countless varieties of Belgian beer. Then head to the Grote Markt Square<\/strong>, where, sitting at a street caf\u00e9, you can admire the exquisite lace of medieval architecture and listen to the chimes echoing through the old airy city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where to stay on the Belgian coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Getaway Studios “The Providence” Oostende\u226b<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 nice compact apartments in Ostend<\/strong> with everything you need for a vacation. Well-equipped kitchen and quality fridge. Good quality bed and sofa. Quiet surroundings, but the city center and beach are nearby at the same time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Boutique Hotel Azur\u226b<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 family hotel in De Haan<\/strong>, located not far from the beach, has a nice bar and lounge but no sea view. Location is 1 minute from the dam and close to the center.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Hotel Albert Plage\u226b<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 hotel in Knokke-Heist<\/strong> with a great location, very close to the sea and city center, friendly staff, clean and cozy rooms.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Transport<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/kusttram-2724363_1280-1024x701.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nBetween the resorts of Knokke<\/strong> in the northeast and De Panne<\/strong> in the southwest, the entire coastline is covered by the De Kusttram<\/a> (Coastal Tram)<\/strong>. The longest tram line in the world connects all towns and resorts of the Belgian coast. The length is over 60 kilometers, with 67 stops on the route. Single ticket \u2013 \u20ac2.5, 10-trip card \u2013 \u20ac17, 50-trip card \u2013 \u20ac75.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
French Atlantic<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/etretat-5302045_1280-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nFrance was given two coasts at once: the C\u00f4te d’Azur<\/strong> with the gentle Mediterranean and a cooler Atlantic coast<\/strong>, with vast sandy beaches. The Atlantic coast of France<\/strong> is a haven for romantics who are ready to wander for hours along endless beaches and cliffs, climb dunes, admire tides, and sip dozens of fresh oysters with wine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
I recommend reading: Beach holidays on the C\u00f4te d’Azur<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
The height of the season on the French Atlantic is July and August<\/strong>, when the water near the shoreline warms up to 21\u201322 degrees, and in small lagoons with sandy beaches can be even warmer. Ocean lovers, big waves, long walks and active recreation must visit the fashionable Biarritz<\/strong>, see the stone arches of the cliffs at \u00c9tretat<\/strong>. And also visit the oyster paradise in Arcachon<\/strong> and the most popular abbey in the world \u2013 Mont-Saint-Michel<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Things to do on the coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Deauville and Trouville<\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/deauville-5302044_1280-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/trouville-sur-mer-966097_1280-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTry to compare two coastal towns \u2013 Deauville and Trouville<\/strong>. Deauville was built in the 19th century as a resort for Parisian nobility, who could easily reach the weekend at the coast by train from Paris. Just about two hours and here it is \u2013 the ocean, sun, and comfortable, respectable leisure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deauville and Trouville<\/strong> are two towns that flow into each other, separated by only a small strait. Stately half-timbered Deauville<\/strong> and cheerful carefree Trouville<\/strong>, whose mood can be seen in its doll houses, bright caf\u00e9 signs, and many markets where you can eat oysters right at the counter, washed down with a glass of white wine. In Deauville, everything is more dignified and noble, the respectability is even reflected in the building facades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u00c9tretat<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/flowers-6928749_1280-1024x682.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nSee the white arches of \u00c9tretat<\/strong> at sunset. Despite the fact that even in summer it sometimes rains, the most passionate romantics from all over the world still flock here. \u00c9tretat is very intimate and cozy in contrast to the powerful cliffs and waves crashing against their white “legs”. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The curved beach in \u00c9tretat is made of pebbles, and almost no one swims here. But along the promenade in the morning and evening locals and tourists gather\u2014to walk, breathe the salty air. \u00c9tretat is especially beautiful in the evening when the sun colors the coastal arches of the cliffs pink, as in impressionist paintings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mont-Saint-Michel<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/mont-saint-michel-3497649_1280-1024x686.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nMont-Saint-Michel<\/strong> is a small rocky island-fortress on the northwest coast of France. The rock and sandy flats surrounding it are washed by three rivers\u2014S\u00e9e, S\u00e9lune and Couesnon<\/strong>. Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey<\/strong> is a place where the amazing play of tides changes the status of this rock. High tide turns it into an island and an impregnable stronghold. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The castle at the top of the rock served many roles: Benedictine abbey, monastery, defensive fortress, and even a prison. Today it is the hallmark of Normandy, shrouded in numerous legends. Twice a day the tides change the water level around the island by 14 meters. The castle is surrounded by sandy shores, where during low tide romantics stroll along the sand. There is even a schedule of tides<\/a><\/strong>\u2014when you can go to the shore and when not\u2014the water comes in at a speed of 6 km per hour. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Arcachon<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/dune-6912829_1280-1024x682.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nArcachon<\/strong> is the oyster capital of the region, where they are bred in the basin waters. Here you can gorge on these marine delights and completely surrender to the charming process. And the prices are laughable\u2014from \u20ac0.5 apiece. At the old port Pointe de l\u2019Aiguillon, in the simple setting of the La Cabane de l\u2019Aiguillon oyster farm<\/strong>, you can try all the local oyster varieties. From here oysters are transported all over France and to Paris. And from Paris you can get here in five hours by train with a transfer at Bordeaux. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just five kilometers from Arcachon lies a unique natural monument\u2014Dune du Pilat.<\/strong> You must climb it, as Dune du Pilat is colossal in size\u2014up to 3 km long and up to 120 meters high<\/strong>. From the top, you get a stunning view of the ocean and the pine forests of Aquitaine that stretch for many kilometers around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Biarritz<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/ocean-6590795_1280-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nBiarritz<\/strong> is one of the most famous and fashionable resorts on France’s Atlantic coast. Here at the border of Spain and France, the culture and traditions of the French and the Basques\u2014peoples who have inhabited these lands since ancient times\u2014are organically intertwined. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since the mid-19th century, Biarritz became one of the most popular spa resorts for royal dynasties and aristocrats. There is still a thalassotherapy institute with treatments from ocean water and mud. The wide sandy beaches of Biarritz, stretching between two rocky outcrops\u2014from Cape Saint-Martin to the northern Plage de la Chambre d\u2019Amour<\/strong>\u2014are known worldwide. The beaches are only suitable for swimming during high tide; when the ocean retreats, holidaymakers walk on the exposed seabed, collecting shells and examining crabs that are not shy about basking on the stones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where to stay in Northern France<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- La Maison de la Plage\u226b<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 hotel in Trouville<\/strong> just a block across from the sea. Very authentic place, beautiful interior, ideal location, cleanliness and serenity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Studio Deauville proche CID\u226b<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 small apartment for two, located in Deauville<\/strong> not far from the beach.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Chambres d’H\u00f4tes les Charmettes\u226b<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 a wonderful old hotel in \u00c9tretat<\/strong> with rooms offering stunning views of the city and coast with the famous cliffs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Holiday Inn Express – Arcachon – La Teste, an IHG Hotel\u226b<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 modern hotel in Arcachon at a democratic price. The location is great, since within a few minutes walk there are many restaurants. Besides, it’s only a 10-minute drive to the sea and Dune du Pilat.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- STUDIO BIARRITZ – Plage \u00e0 100 m – parking gratuit\u226b<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 new modern apartment near the beach in Biarritz.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Transport<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The best way to get there from Paris is by French railways<\/a><\/strong>\u2014just a few hours and you’re on the north coast. You can also use buses\u2014it’s easiest to find information about routes and schedules on Omio<\/a><\/strong>. If you plan to travel along the coast, a rental car<\/a><\/strong> is ideal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bay of Biscay \u2013 Spain<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/cliff-6875054_960_720.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nNorthern Spain: Basque Country, A Coru\u00f1a and Asturias<\/strong> are washed by the waters of the Bay of Biscay. This is an incredibly romantic coast that is nothing like southern Spain. Here, mighty cliffs alternate with beaches covered in amber-yellow sand, boats and yachts sway in cozy coves, and life proceeds at its own pace in large and small coastal towns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The French prefer to holiday here, elderly Britons travel for months in camper vans, and of course Spaniards tired of the exhausting forty-degree heat. The weather here is very changeable, but in August and September there is minimal rain and a gentle sun shines. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Things to do on the coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/IMG_0689-1024x768.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe beaches in northern Spain are more suitable for those who surf. But you can also swim in the summer here. You won’t see rows of sunbeds on the beaches\u2014tides will treacherously wash away plastic umbrellas and loungers. In the evenings, you can observe the exposed details of the underwater life of the ocean floor, feeling the powerful force of nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, I enjoyed swimming and sunbathing at Arimune Hondartza<\/strong> beach in the town of Bakio (near Bilbao). There is also a nice beach in San Sebastian, protected from big waves by the bay. If a holiday in San Sebastian is too expensive\u2014look at neighboring beaches, such as Markobe Hondartza<\/strong> in the town of Getaria, or the huge beach in Zarautz, which has more space, but also much bigger waves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
San Sebasti\u00e1n<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/IMG_0650-1024x768.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis cozy and posh town is located not far from the French border. Here you will often hear French rather than Spanish, and official signs are duplicated in Basque. That is why the town officially has two names: Donostia – San Sebasti\u00e1n<\/strong> (literally from Basque Dono (Saint) + stia (ending from Sebastian)). The city embraces the La Concha bay, curving around a huge sandy beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The promenade is the heart of San Sebasti\u00e1n: at dawn, indefatigable athletes are running along it, during the day it’s filled with sunbathers, and in the evening, under the lights, happy tourists stroll or sit in restaurants. But there is also cheap and no less tasty food\u2014try the local pintxos with seafood, fish, vegetables and amazing sauces, which will not leave you hungry and will surprise you with their combination of flavors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
San Juan de Gaztelugatxe<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/gestal.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n30 km from Bilbao there is an island called Gaztelugatxe<\/strong>, which was formed millions of years ago as a result of a volcanic eruption. The island is connected to the mainland by a long man-made bridge\u2014this location has repeatedly appeared in the series “Game of Thrones”. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
At the top of the island stands the chapel San Juan de Gaztelugatxe<\/strong>, built in the 10th century in honor of St. John the Baptist; steep stone stairs with 237 steps lead up to it. The observation deck offers wonderful views of the rocky coast and the ocean. Make a wish by striking the bell and it will surely come true, as long as it comes from the heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cudillero<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/\u0424\u0430\u0439\u043b_0003.jpeg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nThis small fishing village in the heart of Asturias is compactly arranged amphitheater-style on the slopes of coastal cliffs. Cudillero<\/strong> is a wonderful place and the restaurants here are incredibly expensive. But how can you resist the seafood, whose aroma is intoxicating.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/\u0424\u0430\u0439\u043b_0001.jpeg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nCudillero really is a former fishing village, whose houses hang over steep slopes, and instead of streets, endless stairs wind between them, running down to the central square. People come here for cozy views and simple, unpretentious, yet fantastically delicious fish cuisine offered in every caf\u00e9. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A bit higher than the village lies the Asturian Versailles \u2013 the Selgas-Fagalde palace and park complex. Visiting the park and the palace is ticketed and you need to book your tour time<\/a><\/strong> in advance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Praia de As Catedrais<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/IMG_2336-1.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/IMG_2347-1.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPraia de As Catedrais or the Beach of Cathedrals<\/strong> is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world according to the Travellers Choice Playas rating. On this beach, natural stone arches have formed in the rocks due to water and wind. Twice a day, for a few hours, the tide uncovers the bases of the stone arches, and after a while, they hide again under the high water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Beach of Cathedrals is located 18 kilometers from the small town of Ribadeo. It’s best to come to this beach at dawn before the crowds of tourists\u2014so you can be the pioneer on pristine sand under the vaults of amazing stone arches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where to stay in Northern Spain<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Hotel SANSEbay\u226b<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 hotel located in the center of San Sebasti\u00e1n, from where it is easy to walk to sights.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Pension Del Mar\u226b<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 pension in San Sebasti\u00e1n with a great location, 5\u201310 minutes walk from the beach and 3 minutes from various bars and restaurants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Transport<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Along the northern coast of Spain\u2014from Bilbao to Ferrol<\/strong> (from west to east) run trains of the Feve<\/a><\/strong> company. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- You can also travel by Alsa<\/a><\/strong> buses. For example, from Madrid you can reach any city in Spain, and also move between major coastal cities. <\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Pension Del Mar\u226b<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 pension in San Sebasti\u00e1n with a great location, 5\u201310 minutes walk from the beach and 3 minutes from various bars and restaurants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Studio Deauville proche CID\u226b<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 small apartment for two, located in Deauville<\/strong> not far from the beach.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Boutique Hotel Azur\u226b<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 family hotel in De Haan<\/strong>, located not far from the beach, has a nice bar and lounge but no sea view. Location is 1 minute from the dam and close to the center.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Secondly<\/strong>, the healing air, which is so necessary for small children. <\/li>\n\n\n\n