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These 15 French coves will take you to the other side of the world!

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The Editor

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No need to fly to the other side of the world to admire stunning landscapes: Brittany, the Southeast, Corsica, or even overseas departments offer us true natural wonders just a few hours from home! From wild inlets to turquoise lagoons, here are 15 spectacular French coves that will take you on a journey without leaving the country.


1. The Cove of Croisette, Var

Hidden in the Mediterranean Provence is a stunning cove: the Cove of Croisette. This pebble beach, nestled between cliffs, is located on the island of Embiez, in Var, near Toulon. With very challenging land access, you can only reach it by kayak, making it particularly calm and secluded.

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2. La Douche, Guadeloupe

A little further away, in the Caribbean Sea, there's an astonishing cove. Called “La Douche,” this beach will surprise you as big waves crash against the rocks, creating impressive sprays of water. You can swim in a small natural pool, and this one-of-a-kind setting promises a feeling of total escape.


3. Robinson's Cove, French Polynesia

World-renowned for its calm and turquoise waters, Robinson's Cove is tucked away at the heart of Opunohu Bay in French Polynesia. Easily accessible, the bravest can swim alongside rays and sharks, while others may prefer to relax on the fine sand.


4. The Riou Bourdoux Cove, Hautes-Alpes

On the shores of the Serre-Ponçon Lake in Hautes-Alpes, you'll discover some stunning coves, far away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Sunny pebbles, crystal-clear water, and evergreen trees as far as the eye can see come together in harmony, creating a true haven of wild peace.

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5. The Cove of Île-Vierge, Finistère

Considered the fifth most beautiful beach in the world, the cove of Île Vierge will transport you to Greece for an afternoon. Unfortunately, it is closed to the public for safety reasons due to cliff collapses, but you can admire it from above on the coastal path, or from the sea during a lovely boat trip.


6. The Ningles Cove, Pas-de-Calais

A true gem of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais, this little hidden beach on the Opal Coast offers you a wild and picturesque setting for your swims. Dependent on the tides, it reveals itself as the tide goes out, giving you about 6 hours to enjoy this Picard treasure. Its wild environment and the sense of freedom this cove provides will almost make you feel like you’re all alone in the world.


7. Rondinara Bay, South Corsica

On the Island of Beauty, Rondinara Bay charms visitors with its wild landscapes and turquoise water. Its almost perfectly closed shell-shaped form keeps you protected from currents and wind, making it the ideal spot for a peaceful swim. However, due to its popularity, we suggest visiting off-season or in the morning to avoid the crowds. It’s also at these times that you might just spot a wild cow lounging on the sand.


8. The Ster-Vraz Cove, Morbihan

On Belle-Île-en-Mer, a place that needs no introduction, you'll discover a stunning beach of sand and pebbles: the Ster-Vraz Cove. Surrounded by cliffs, on one of the most beautiful islands in Morbihan, this beach is sheltered from the wind and provides the perfect setting for a sunny afternoon by the sea. And for golf lovers, the island's course offers a breathtaking view of this Breton paradise.


9. The Coves of Pointe de l’Aiguille, Alpes-Maritimes

Within the natural park of Pointe de l’Aiguille, near Cannes, you can lay your towel on one of the region’s secret coves. Nestled among cliffs of red volcanic rocks, the turquoise and crystal-clear water beautifully contrasts with the landscape, offering you a breathtaking view of the Bay of Cannes and the Lérins Islands. A tip: don’t forget your snorkeling mask to admire the underwater world and its wild life.

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10. The Bay of Monkeys, Bouches-du-Rhône

Nicknamed "the end of the world" by the people of Marseille, this narrow beach protected by a breakwater is absolutely perfect for a cozy afternoon basking in the sun among the white rocks of the region. And after swimming in the turquoise waters of the cove, why not recharge at the restaurant of the Bay of Monkeys with some delicious local seafood specialties?


11. The Cove of Red Earth, Var

In Hyères, in the Var region, there’s a small sandy and pebbly beach surrounded by red cliffs. Access is easy and the view of the Tour Fondue, a former military fort from the 17th century, is breathtaking. So, if you happen to be visiting the Giens Peninsula, don’t miss the chance to discover one of the most beautiful beaches in France.


12. The Beach of Étretat, Seine-Maritime

With its vast stretch of pebbles hidden by gigantic white chalk cliffs, the beach of Étretat offers a unique landscape that has inspired many artists, like Claude Monet. Away from the crowds, you can surf, learn sailing, or go kayaking in one of the most beautiful protected natural heritage sites in France.


13. The En-Vau Cove, Bouches-du-Rhône

As an integral part of the Marseille Calanques National Park, you will be enchanted by the stunning landscapes of En-Vau Cove. You can access it via hiking trails that range from 2 to 3.5 hours, and access is highly regulated based on the fire risk. But once you're there, you'll be captivated by the turquoise water, the local wildlife, and the wild beauty of this place!


14. Cap Roux, Var

Iconic peak in the south of France, Cap Roux is also home to some beautifully wild coves, featuring purple cliffs plunging into crystal-clear waters. The water temperature is just perfect, and part of the beach enjoys shade from early afternoon, making it a lovely spot to relax. You can also enjoy snorkeling all year round thanks to the rich marine life. Just a heads-up: this beach is partly naturist.


15. Arone, Corse-du-Sud

This time in Corsica, the cove of Arone is located at the far south of the Gulf of Porto. The water is turquoise, the pink cliffs, and the marine life is very diverse: it’s the perfect spot for a successful vacation. So grab your towel and sunscreen, and set off to discover this spectacular cove.