Longs stretches of sand wind along one of the world’s most beautiful bays - La Baule. The façades of the Art Deco and Belle Époque villas boast colourful timbering and sophisticated balustrades. A chic and family-friendly seaside resort, La Baule borders Pornichet and Le Pouliguen. All against the fascinating patchwork backdrop of the Guérande salt marshes (that produce the region’s emblematic salt). From the thatched cottages of Kerhinet to the medieval walls of Guérande and from equestrian sports to nautical activities, authentic heritage still pulses through the veins of the Atlantic coast.
The real estate market
The high-end seaside property market has seen a 15-20% rise in the past year and a half. A villa in a sought-after neighbourhood with no works needed can go for up to €12,000 per square metre these days. Apartments facing the sea start from €10,000 per sq.m and can reach up to €20,000 per sq.m if they are located on Plage Benoît. Typical villas with a garden and top-floor apartments are the most in-demand properties.
Our advice
The neighbourhoods to focus on are Les Oiseaux, Garden, Grands Hôtels, Plage Benoît, Marché and Lajarrige. For apartments, along Benoît beach all the way to Pornichet marketplace.
For those looking to be able to reach everything on foot, the Garden neighbourhood is ideal. Close to the station (three hours to Paris on the high-speed line), the beach and small boutiques, the area also offers ample volumes at contained prices. Fans of golf and tranquillity should look to the luxurious gated communities along the Golf Barrière in Saint-André-des-Eaux.
Inside tip
The market is teeming with properties to redesign to suit your style. Don’t hesitate to get in touch to talk more about your plans. - Serge Le BERRE, director of BARNES La BAULE
Next stop, the Atlantic!
Gourmet products, restaurants with an ocean view, and sports activities - La Baule enthrals with its perfect blend of easy living and adventure.
Shopping
Le Fondant baulois
The perfect fondant does exist, and you can buy one from this blue and white boutique known to all the locals. With a touch of meringue, a dash of salted butter caramel and an indulgent dose of chocolate. To be consumed with moderation, but to die for.
@fondantbaulois
Place du Marché, 44500 La Baule
La Cuisine de l’Aparté
@la_cuisine_de_laparte
This caterer proposes an incredible selection of delicatessen as well as French ceramics and household linen made from noble materials. A treat for the eyes and the taste buds with plenty to fill both your plate and your lounge.
6 rue Mauperthuis 44150 Le Pouliguen
Alain Jarian
@alainjariancreateur
After earning his stripes in the luxury sector, shoemaker Alain Jarian has opened his own store in La Baule. From divinely comfortable killer heels to canvas tassel loafers, all of the shoes are made in Italy.
142 avenue du Général de Gaulle 44550 La Baule
Culture
Golf International Barrière La Baule
@hotelsbarriere
45 holes in a green oasis on 3 courses at the heart of the Brière Regional Nature Park. Set between pines and lakes, its Club House affords a vista over the stunning greens.
Route de Saint-Denac, 44117 Saint-André-des-Eaux
Terres de Sel, Marais de Guérande
@labauleguerande
The early morning sun gently wakes the Guérande salt marshes. Follow Terres de Sel on a hike around the embankment or on an introduction to the ancient craft of the salt merchant.
Pradel, 44350 Guérande
The hottest reservations in town
Le Saint-Christophe
@hoteletrestaurantlesaintchristophe
In a 1900s villa, the locally sourced Saint-Christophe, finally reopened at the end of June, puts a new spin on the Belle Epoque. Jigsaw tataki and lace biscuits all await eager diners.
1 avenue des Alcyons, 44500 La Baule
La Tête de l’Art
@latetedelart
Under the slate roof of the Manoir de La Porte Calon, the local food served at this restaurant combines wild seaweed from Le Croisic with sea lettuce.
11 rue de la Porte Calon 44350 Guérande
La Villa
@lavilla_labaule
Treat yourself to the traditional dishes served up in this iconic brasserie. And if that’s not enough to tempt you in, the cocktail list has plenty of options for those long summer evenings.
18 avenue du Général de Gaulle 44500 La Baule
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