The entrance to the Côte Sauvage
Plage du Pavillon is one of the privileged accesses to the Côte Sauvage du Pouliguen, this spectacular coastline sculpted by the ocean, where granite cliffs, sandy coves and sea caves follow one another over several kilometres.
The coastal path runs along the coast towards Batz-sur-Mer then Le Croisic: this is the section of the GR®34, a famous long-distance hiking trail that follows the entire Breton coastline. Following in the footsteps of 19th-century sea bathers, one enjoys a breath of iodised air and remarkable panoramas over the bay of La Baule, ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world.
As for curiosities, several sea caves to discover: Grotte de Velours, Grotte Rouge, Grotte des Deux Sœurs, Grotte des Korrigans, Grotte de la Bonne Vierge. Some are accessible at low tide for curious explorers.
Several hikes to choose from
Côte Sauvage du Pouliguen · Loop 9.3 km. Moderate level, 2 h to 2 h 30. Rating 4.3 / 5 (124 reviews). Both urban and coastal, this circuit runs along the quays then the promenade (developed since 1808) before continuing along the coastal path. Remarkable panorama over the bay from Grande Côte.
GR®34 Le Croisic · La Baule · 24.6 km. Moderate level, about 5 h 30 to 6 h. Mythical stage of the customs officers' path that crosses the tip of Le Croisic while following the Côte Sauvage: granite cliffs, sea caves, sheltered coves before reaching Le Pouliguen and La Baule.
Pornichet · Batz · Le Pouliguen via GR®34 · 16.6 km. Easy level, 3 h 30 to 4 h. Runs along the beach of La Baule and Plage Benoît in the bay of Le Pouliguen, up to the mouth of the Étier du Pouliguen.
Detailed maps and routes on alltrails.com.
Practical information
Côte Sauvage · Le Pouliguen 44510
GPS: 47.2588 / -2.4208
GR®34 · Customs Path
High traffic during peak season, arrive early.
Swimming not supervised: prefer the supervised beaches of La Baule for family outings.
Check the tides before exploring the caves.
From L'Écrin des Nymphes
Plage du Pavillon is approximately 5 km from the studio. Allow 10 minutes by car via the centre of La Baule then Le Pouliguen, or 20-25 minutes by bike along the seafront (bikes from L'Écrin at your disposal). A lovely option for a morning hike or a sunset on the cliffs.
Easily combined with a visit to the port of Pouliguen, a crêperie lunch, or the nearby Biscuiterie Bretonne.
Antonin's advice
« My favourite time: late afternoon, around 18:00, when the golden light clings to the granite cliffs and the Côte Sauvage looks like a postcard. Take the 9 km loop at a leisurely pace (2h 30) starting and finishing in Pouliguen, with a snack or crêpe break at the port before heading back. For low tides, bring a headlamp and explore the Grotte de Velours and the Grotte Rouge: magical. And for family swimming, head back to the large beach of La Baule, which is safer. »
Frequently asked questions
Where is Plage du Pavillon?
Plage du Pavillon is located in Pouliguen, 44510, on the Côte Sauvage, 10 minutes by car from L'Écrin des Nymphes in La Baule-les-Pins. GPS coordinates: 47.2588 / -2.4208.
What is the recommended hiking route?
The most popular is the Côte Sauvage loop from Pouliguen (9.3 km, moderate, 2h-2h30) which runs along the granite cliffs. For experienced hikers, the section GR®34 Le Croisic · La Baule (24.6 km, about 5h30-6h) offers a more comprehensive route with spectacular views of the bay of Pouliguen, ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world.
What can be seen along the Côte Sauvage?
The path runs along granite cliffs sculpted by the ocean, numerous marine caves (Grotte de Velours, Grotte Rouge, Grotte des Deux Sœurs, Grotte des Korrigans, Grotte de la Bonne Vierge), sandy coves, and stunning viewpoints over the bay. On the urban section, you will also encounter beautiful Belle Époque villas that testify to 19th-century seaside tourism.
Is the hike accessible to everyone?
The coastal path has rocky sections, moderate elevation changes, and is not suitable for pushchairs. Good walking shoes are recommended. It is possible to shorten the route by taking the streets and the paved promenade (1808) to reach the centre of Pouliguen without difficulty.
Can you swim at Plage du Pavillon?
Yes, the beach is swimmable in summer. However, be cautious of currents and rocks: unsupervised swimming all year round, prefer the supervised beaches of La Baule (9 km of fine sand in a crescent shape) for family swimming.
Is there parking nearby?
Yes, several free car parks are available in the Côte Sauvage area. Parking can be tight during peak season (July-August, weekends), it is advisable to arrive early in the morning.