Want to try kitesurfing? The summer season is ideal for a new sporting adventure. France has several magnificent coastlines that are ideal for learning to kitesurf. We suggest you discover 7 spots where you can learn to practice this fascinating sport in France. Get ready for a journey from the Pas-de-Calais coast to the Mediterranean beaches.
The bay of Wissant (Opal Coast)
The Bay of Wissant, in the Pas-de-Calais, is known for its strong winds. It averages 7 to 8 degrees on the Beaufort scale. The waves extend over several dozen kilometres. It is a large sandy beach with no real dangers. When the sun is shining, it is particularly pleasant to kitesurf on this spot, which is located a few kilometres from Calais. The cross-Channel ferries run all day long and add to the charm of the place.
Hardelot (Opal Coast)
Hardelot is a seaside town on the Opal Coast, located a few kilometres from the famous town of Le Touquet. The beach is very accessible. It stretches as far as the eye can see with its sandy, rock-free seabed. At low tide, natural pools, known as tarpaulins, are ideal for kitesurfing. The small town of Hardelot is characterised by its serenity. It is built in the heart of a dune massif, surrounded by forests.
The Glénan archipelago (Brittany)
Located in Brittany, the Glénan archipelago is made up of seven islets spread around an inland sea which guarantees crystal-clear waters and beaches of immaculate sand or covered with pebbles. Several spots allow you to immerse yourself in the practice of kitesurfing. The beaches are literally heavenly, thanks in particular to the presence of a very rich vegetation which includes the Narcisse des Glénan, an endemic floral species.
The Arcachon basin (Gironde)
The Arcachon basin has several very interesting kitesurfing spots: la Hume (Gujan), la Salie (La Teste), or les Arbousiers (Arcachon). The basin allows you to have a long distance to walk. This characteristic is very appreciable when you are a beginner in the discipline. Be careful, during high tide, the spots of the basin can be choppy. It is better to start at low tide.
Port Leucate (Pyrénées-Orientales)
Port Leucate, in the Pyrenees-Orientales, is a seaside resort well known to kitesurfers. It hosts the annual Mondial du Vent. More than 300 days a year, the wind blows in slide off. You can count on 40 to 50 knots on Tramontane days. Because of these characteristics, the French Federation of Free Flight (FFVL) recommends this place for the most experienced.
The Espiguette beach (Grau du Roi, Camargue)
Head for the Mediterranean coast, on the shores of the Espiguette beach. This spot is located in Grau du Roi, a small seaside town in the Camargue. It has regular currents and variable winds. Novices can learn to kitesurf without fear.
The beach of Espiguette is very large and is located in a dune massif. The water is huge, but the sandy area is also ideal for learning how to handle kitesurfing safely. There are shops along the waterfront. It is easy to learn how to “edge” and quickly gain independence. Experts in the discipline will enjoy practising at l’Espiguette.
The bay of Hyères (Var)
If you want to learn to kitesurf in the area around Hyères, you can contact the KGG school. Experts will welcome you and will be at your disposal to teach you the basic skills of kitesurfing.
The bay of Hyères in the Var is a flat area of water on a Mistral day. However, the waves come alive in an easterly wind.
Close to the bay of Hyères, you can start your kitesurfing sessions in the bay of Almanarre. With a length of 4 km, this place is divided into 3 spots. Even in case of Mistral, i.e. west wind, the bay remains practicable for novices.
Kitesurfing is a water sport that is gaining more and more followers every year. The discipline is accessible to most people. It allows you to connect with the sea and the wilderness. Explore opportunities to learn or develop your kitesurfing skills in safe and enjoyable spots.