Saint-Nicolas Beach is a natural seaside beach; behind the dune are a wooded area and picnic tables. There are also walking trails, dune landscapes and maritime history. When planning your trip, you can focus on the beach and nature or include walking trails and lighthouse history.
Dunes, Protected Area and Beach
The Dune et Pointe de Grave protected area covers 87.56 hectares and is located in Le Verdon-Sur-Mer. It has remarkable natural features, with original habitats and species considered rare at regional and national levels. Mediterranean-influenced flora shapes the dune landscape; it is considered unique along this stretch of coast. Dune Saint-Nicolas is a natural area of particular ecological value, offering beautiful views of Cordouan Lighthouse. In summer, CPIE MĂ©doc offers visits along the dune belt. Programmes are seasonal and may change.
At Saint-Nicolas Beach, you can choose between spending time by the sea and taking a break in the wooded area behind the dune, where picnic tables are available. The beach is also suitable for surfing and bodyboarding. Beach conditions and supervision may vary by season; seasonal regulations may also apply. Cyclists can reach the beach via the Vélodyssée. From there, a footpath of about 450 metres leads to the beach. Check local trail conditions and access rules in advance.
Walks Along the Canal and Through Nature
La Verdonnaise starts in Le Verdon-Sur-Mer and is a very easy 6.7-kilometre walking trail; it takes about one hour and 45 minutes. This is an approximate time, and you should check the trail signs before setting out. The route follows the canal to former oyster huts. The loop to the huts is 800 metres.
The Marais du Logit also lies along La Verdonnaise. An information sign indicates that this place can be visited; access may depend on local conditions. So, as well as the canal and former huts, you can take in a natural area during your walk. Plan your route based on the trail signs and local conditions.
Lighthouses and Maritime History
Cordouan Lighthouse is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can be reached by boat from Le Verdon-Sur-Mer. Organised boat trips to visit it depart from Port Médoc. Checking the respective sailing times will help you include the trip in your plans. The Musée du phare de Cordouan et des Phares et Balises is dedicated to the lighthouse and explores the history of maritime signalling.
Phare de Grave also offers panoramic views over Le Verdon-Sur-Mer. Listed as a historic monument, Phare de la Pointe de Grave comprises the entire lighthouse, including the former residential buildings now used by a museum. A memorial at Pointe de Grave also commemorates wartime events, including Operation Frankton and the Monument aux Américains. For a different cultural focus, the former oyster port welcomes visitors to its artists’ huts: photographers, painters, sculptors, ceramicists and other artists exhibit their work there. The huts welcome visitors throughout the summer; summer programmes may vary.
Maison de Grave is open to everyone all year round and offers activities in environmental education and awareness. Visits focused on nature and heritage therefore complement each other, so you don't have to limit your stay to just one type of excursion.
Cycling and Water Sports
The Vélodyssée starts at Pointe de Grave, opposite the landing stage for the ferry between Royan and Le Verdon-Sur-Mer. This clearly identifies the cycling route's starting point; the route to Saint-Nicolas Beach then continues along the footpath mentioned above. Fishandtwins is a family-oriented, environmentally conscious surf school in Le Verdon-Sur-Mer. Its offerings may change seasonally, so it is advisable to check the latest information in advance.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Émilion, Courpiac, Saint-Genès-De-Fronsac, Belvès-De-Castillon, Carbon-Blanc, Cestas, Saint-Sauveur-De-Puynormand, Saint-Magne-De-Castillon.
For the overview of the wider area: Gironde.
