What is longe-côte?
Longe-côte, or coastal water walking, originated in Nord-Pas-de-Calais in the 2000s and quickly spread along the French coastline. The principle is simple: walk in the sea, with water up to the waist or chest, sometimes with a paddle to add arm work.
The activity combines the benefits of gentle exercise (no impact on joints), thalassotherapy (mineralised seawater, iodised air), and hiking (discovering the coastline, sharing in a group). It is accessible to everyone, from adolescence, without any particular physical condition and without needing to swim · the water never exceeds the chest.
Why practice in La Baule?
The large beach of La Baule, ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world, offers 9 kilometres of fine sand with a gentle slope, ideal for longe-côte: no abrupt drop-offs, moderate currents, and an unobstructed view of the bay. The water is warmed by the Gulf Stream and practice is possible all year round with an appropriate wetsuit.
Ouest Coaching, the local club
Since 2021, Romain Leray has been leading longe-côte sessions in La Baule for Ouest Coaching, an organisation he co-founded with Hélène Cospain. A qualified sports coach, he also supervises sessions at Tharon-Plage and organises events (stag/hen parties in longe-côte or bootcamp mode).
Practical information
(near the beach restaurant "Clan des Fish")
44500 La Baule-Escoublac
Payment on site. The wetsuit is provided for the initiation.
Off-season schedule (September to June)
| Day | Time | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10:00 · 10:45 | 45 min |
| Thursday | 10:00 · 10:45 | 45 min |
| Saturday | 11:15 · 12:00 | 45 min |
Summer schedule communicated directly by Ouest Coaching · contact Romain at 06 26 25 50 29.
From L'Écrin des Nymphes
The meeting point is located on the central promenade of La Baule, approximately 1.5 km from the studio. Allow 5 minutes by car, 8 minutes by bike or 18 minutes on foot. Parking is easy in the off-season; prefer biking in July-August. Bicycles are available for you at L'Écrin des Nymphes.
Antonin's advice
« If you want to try longe-côte, tell Romain I sent you · he will take care of you personally. I recommend the Saturday 11:15 session: relaxed atmosphere, beautiful light over the bay in winter, and a chance to follow up with a coffee facing the beach. »
Frequently asked questions
What is longe-côte?
Longe-côte, or coastal walking in water, is an outdoor activity that involves walking in seawater up to the waist or chest, sometimes with a paddle. It combines gentle exercise, relaxation, and coastal exploration. Accessible to everyone, no swimming skills required.
Do you need to know how to swim to practice longe-côte?
No. Longe-côte is practiced standing, with feet touching the ground. Supervision by a qualified coach ensures total safety, even for those who cannot swim.
What should you bring for a session?
Swimsuit, towel (poncho type), and a small mat to insulate your feet in winter. The wetsuit is provided for the initiation. Arrive 20 minutes before the session starts.
How much does an initiation session cost?
The initiation is €15, equipment (wetsuit) included. Payment on site to Romain Leray, the manager of Ouest Coaching.
Can you practice longe-côte all year round in La Baule?
Yes. Ouest Coaching offers an off-season schedule from September to June (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday) and adjusts the slots in the summer season. Sessions are cancelled only in case of a storm.
What are the benefits of longe-côte?
Overall muscle strengthening, improved cardio, lymphatic drainage due to water pressure, oxygenation from the iodised air, and psychological well-being linked to contact with nature.