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These 15 French Coves Will Whisk You Away to the Other Side of the World

undefined undefined 26 juillet 2026 undefined 18h00

undefined undefined 6 août 2026 undefined 07h46

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, and our overseas territories offer us genuine natural wonders just a few hours from home! From wild coves to turquoise lagoons, here are 15 spectacular French creeks that will take you traveling without leaving the country.


1. Croisette Cove, Var

Hidden away in Mediterranean Provence lies a sublime cove: Croisette Cove. This pebble beach nestled between cliffs is located on the Embiez Islands in the Var, near Toulon. Since access by land is extremely difficult, you can only reach it by kayak, making it particularly peaceful and exclusive.


2. La Douche, Guadeloupe

A little further out, in the Caribbean Sea, lies an amazing cove. Called "La Douche," this beach will surprise you when large waves crash against the rocks, creating impressive water sprays. You can take a dip in a natural little pool, and this one-of-a-kind setting promises you a total sense of escape.


3. Robinson's Cove, French Polynesia

Renowned worldwide for its peaceful vibe and turquoise waters, Robinson's Cove is tucked away in the heart of Opunohu Bay in French Polynesia. Easy to access, the bravest among you can swim alongside rays and sharks, while others will prefer to relax on the soft sandy beach.


4. Riou Bourdoux Cove, Upper Alps

On the shores of Lake Serre-Ponçon, in the Upper Alps, you'll discover some absolutely magnificent coves, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Pebbles warmed by the sun, crystal-clear water and evergreens stretching as far as the eye can see exist in perfect harmony, creating a truly wild haven of peace.

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5. Île-Vierge Cove, Finistère

Considered the world's fifth most beautiful beach, Île-Vierge Cove will whisk you away to Greece for an afternoon. Unfortunately, it's closed to the public due to safety concerns from cliff erosion, but you can admire it from above along the coastal path, or from the sea during a lovely boat trip.


6. Ningled Cove, Pas-de-Calais

A true source of pride for the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region, this little hidden gem of a beach on the Opal Coast offers you a wild and idyllic setting for your swimming sessions. Dependent on the tides, it reveals itself as the tide recedes, giving you a window of around 6 hours to enjoy this Picardy treasure. Its unspoiled character and the sense of freedom this cove brings will almost make you feel like you're alone in the world.


7. Rondinara Bay, South Corsica

On the Island of Beauty, Rondinara Bay captivates with its wild landscapes and turquoise waters. Its shell-shaped cove, almost perfectly closed off, will shelter you from currents and wind, making it the ideal spot for a peaceful swim. But victim of its own success, we recommend visiting out of season or in the morning to avoid the crowds. That's actually when you'll have the best chance of spotting a wild cow coming to rest on the sand.


8. Ster-Vraz Cove, Morbihan

At Belle-Île-en-Mer, the legendary island, you'll discover a magnificent sand and pebble beach: Ster-Vraz Cove. Surrounded by cliffs, on one of the most beautiful islands in Morbihan, this wind-sheltered beach will be the perfect setting for a blissful sea-breeze afternoon in the sun. And for golf lovers, the island's course will offer you a stunning panorama over this Breton oasis.


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 secret coves in the region. Surrounded by red volcanic rock cliffs, the turquoise and crystalline water creates a stunning contrast with the landscape and offers you an breathtaking view of Cannes Bay and the Lérins Islands. A tip: don't forget your snorkel mask so you can admire the seabed and its wild marine life.

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10. Monkey Bay, Bouches-du-Rhône

Nicknamed "the end of the world" by locals, this narrow beach protected by a breakwater is perfect for an afternoon of sunbathing among the white rocks of the region. And after taking a dip in the turquoise waters of the cove, why not refuel at the Monkey Bay restaurant with some delicious local seafood specialties?


11. Red Earth Cove, Var

In Hyères, in the Var region, lies a small beach of sand and pebbles surrounded by red cliffs. Access is easy and you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Fondue Tower, a 17th-century military fortress. So, if you're passing through the Giens peninsula, don't miss the chance to discover one of France's most beautiful beaches.


12. Étretat Beach, Seine-Maritime

With its vast stretch of pebbles hidden beneath towering white chalk cliffs, Étretat beach offers a one-of-a-kind landscape that has inspired countless artists, including Claude Monet. Far from the crowds, you can surf, learn to sail, or try kayaking in one of France's most beautiful protected natural heritage sites.


13. En-Vau Cove, Bouches-du-Rhône

As an integral part of the Calanques National Park near Marseille, you'll be captivated by the stunning landscapes of En-Vau Cove. You can reach it via hiking trails that take between 2 to 3.5 hours, and access is heavily regulated depending on fire risk. But once you arrive, you'll be won over by the turquoise waters, local wildlife, and the wild character of this magical place!


14. Cape Roux, Var

An iconic summit in southern France, Cape Roux also boasts a few secluded coves with wild charm, featuring purple cliffs plunging into crystal-clear waters. The water temperature is absolutely perfect, part of the beach finds itself in the shade from early afternoon onwards, and the marine life makes snorkeling possible year-round. Just be warned: this beach is partially clothing-optional.


15. Arone, South Corsica

This time in Corsica, the Arone cove sits at the far southern end of the Gulf of Porto. The water here is turquoise, the pink cliffs are stunning, and the marine life incredibly diverse: it's the perfect spot for a successful getaway. So grab your beach towel and sunscreen, and head off to discover this spectacular cove.