Plage de Pontaillac, Atlantic beach in Royan, France
Pontaillac Beach is an Atlantic coast strand in Royan with golden sand and clear water bordered by elegant seaside homes. The beach slopes gently into the water and stretches along the shore with a calm character.
The beach became popular in the 19th century when Royan changed from a fishing village into a seaside retreat for wealthy visitors. This transformation brought the elegant buildings and organized infrastructure that shaped the place.
The beachfront shows Belle-Époque charm through its villas and buildings that shape the area's refined character today. You can feel this heritage in the architecture and how locals value their seaside setting.
The beach has lifeguards in summer, showers, restrooms, and nearby parking options. Mornings offer a less crowded experience, and the location is easy to reach on foot from town.
The beach is home to carrelets, traditional wooden fishing huts on stilts used for generations along the Charente-Maritime coast. These structures remain functional and offer a glimpse into long-standing fishing traditions of the region.
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