Visitors come for the culture and stay for the hip bars, quirky boutiques and convenient access to the Loire Valley and the Atlantic coast. Yes, really. The route comes alive during the annual arts festival, when public buildings such as the contemporary arts and music centre Le Lieu Unique are dressed up for the occasion. Back to earthlier pursuits, Nantes has plenty to offer the avid shopper. The latter comes courtesy of Le Nid , perched at the top of la Tour Bretagne, a storey skyscraper in downtown Nantes.
This urban eyrie has egg-shaped chairs from which to survey the skyline. Speaking of drinks β this is a region made for wine lovers. Most vineyards around the area offer tours and tastings β many free of charge. There are also several wine trails you can follow, stopping off at various wineries to try the local crisp and cooling muscadet.
An hour outside the city, La Baule Bay combines a serene stretch of coast with a pine forest and elegant villas. Relax on the terrace of a beach restaurant, sunbathe on the golden sand, or get active with surfing, sailing, kitesurfing or standup paddle boarding SUP. Alternatively, head to Pornic , which has a pretty beach, fisheries and an old port to explore, or hike along the coastal footpath at Chemin des Douaniers for stunning views.
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