You have just started kitesurfing and you are looking for spots to practice your sport? Did you know that you don’t need to go to the other side of the world to enjoy the sensations of kiteboarding? France and its miles of coastline offer ideal conditions for riders. In this article, we offer you a selection of the 10 most famous spots in France, all validated by the French Federation of Free Flight.
Alpes-de-Haute-Provence – Lake Serre Ponçon
The Serre Ponçon lake is an artificial lake nestled in the Alps 20 kilometres from Gap. Thanks to its fresh unsalted water, the lake is very popular with riders who prefer the mountains to the sea. The landscape is breathtaking and very surprising, as the bell tower of the old church protrudes from the surface of the turquoise water. The weather is to be watched very carefully, as the conditions change quickly in the mountains.
Corsica – La Tonnara
Located in Bonifacio in Corse-du-Sud, La Tonnara beach is an internationally known spot for kite and windsurfing. The wind conditions can be particular on this beach, so this spot is reserved for experts, except when the wind comes from the east which makes the water very flat.
Camargue – Beauduc Beach
Beauduc beach is located in the Rhône delta and the part of the Camargue called Grande Camargue near the town of Arles in the Bouches-du-Rhône. Wild and quiet, this spot is recommended to beginners who dream of kite and freedom. For information, it is possible to bivouac on the beach provided that you have a vehicle of less than 2m07.
Camargue – Plage du Carteau
Another spot in the Camargue, the Plage du Carteau located in Port Saint Louis du Rhône between the Camargue Natural Park and the industrial zone of Fos-sur-Mer. The contrast between the beach, the kitesurfers and the comings and goings of cargo ships makes it one of the most atypical spots in France.
Finistère – Les Glénans
This archipelago off the coast of Finistère has 9 wild islands known for being a place to learn many sports such as sailing. It is also a spot for kitesurfers whether you are a beginner or an experienced kiteboarder. In this almost tropical setting, the weather conditions are top notch.
Gironde – Bassin d’Arcachon
Sunshine, pleasant temperatures and a steady wind make the Arcachon basin a very good kitesurfing spot. To practice, go to the Arbousiers beach located in the south-west of the basin. As soon as the tide is low, a lagoon is uncovered between the sandbanks, which makes the water flat. For windier conditions, you need to walk a bit and move away from the shore. Be sure to wear your neoprene shoes and follow the safety guidelines.
Gard – Espiguette Beach
Along with the Almanarre in Hyères, this beach is located east of the Grau-du-Roi, about 40 km from Montpellier and is one of the largest beaches in the Mediterranean. Thanks to the permanent wind, it has become an unmissable spot, a paradise for beginners and experienced kitesurfers. Please note that for safety reasons, kitesurfing can only be practised to the south of the bathing area.
Pas de Calais – Wissant Bay
For the north of France, the Bay of Wissant is the place to be for riders, and it is not uncommon to see hundreds of sails on this stretch of the Opal Coast. Why this bay and not another one? Because of the wind of course. As it rushes into the Deux Caps site, between Boulogne-sur-Mer and Calais, it increases its strength precisely in this bay located at the exit of the Channel Strait. The wind is stuck between England and the Pas-de-Calais and is increasing in strength.
Pyrénées-Orientales – Port Leucate
Well known to surfers, the resort hosts the Mondial du Vent every year on the beach at La Franqui. With a wind in slide-off more than 300 days a year blowing up to 50 knots per day of tramontane, the French Federation of Free Flight installed its centre sport-studies of the kite to receive the young hopes.
Var – Beach of Almanarre
Fine sand, crystal clear water, off-shore water with an easterly wind, everything is there to attract kiters from all over the world. The kite zone in Hyères is open all year round and is also a famous spot for freeride fans.