Plage des Petites Vallées, Sandy beach in Pornic, France.
Plage des Petites Vallées is a sandy beach in Pornic where sand mixes with exposed rocks along the shoreline, creating natural zones for swimmers of different preferences. The beach features gentle slopes in sandy areas and rocky outcrops that extend into shallow water.
Development of this coastal strip began in the mid-1800s when bathing cabins and a bathhouse were constructed by Constant Blandin to serve early visitors. These structures marked the beginning of the area as a destination for sea bathing.
The wooden poles standing in the water have long helped swimmers find their way safely around the rocky sections. These markers shape how people use the beach and reflect practical traditions that locals have maintained.
The main access is through Boulevard de l'Océan in Sainte Marie sur Mer, which is straightforward to reach. The restaurant Zagaya nearby serves as a useful landmark for finding the entrance.
Dogs are allowed on the beach during the autumn and winter months from October through March, as long as they are kept on a leash throughout their visit. This seasonal rule makes it a welcoming spot for travelers with pets during these quieter months.
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