5 August 2024
The Beaches of Pornic in Brittany and a Local Artisan to Discover
With its stunning coastal landscapes, Brittany is the perfect destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Between steep cliffs, secret coves, and long stretches of fine sand, every corner of Brittany offers a new wonder to discover. Let’s dive into the hidden treasures of Brittany beaches, perfect for a seaside getaway.
Étang Beach
Étang Beach, located in the Finistère department, is a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful, unspoilt escape. Nestled between dunes and ponds, it’s the perfect place to recharge away from the crowds.
The calm, crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming, while the surrounding dunes offer a serene setting for quiet walks. This spot is also popular with birdwatchers, thanks to its rich and varied wildlife.
Porteau Beach
Located in Pornic, Porteau Beach charms visitors with its intimate, picturesque setting. This small cove, bordered by rocks and lush vegetation, is a peaceful haven ideal for relaxation.
At low tide, the natural pools formed by the rocks become a perfect playground for children, while adults can enjoy the sun on the golden sand. The clear waters are ideal for snorkelling, offering breathtaking views of the local marine life.
Sablons Beach
Plage des Sablons in Saint-Malo is a must-visit destination for sea lovers. This wide sandy beach is perfect for family activities, offering plenty of space for beach volleyball, sandcastles, and other seaside games.
Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy surfing, kitesurfing, and sailing, thanks to favourable wind conditions. As the day winds down, don’t miss a stroll along the promenade that borders the beach, the perfect spot to catch a breathtaking sunset.
Cult Classic: Pornic Pottery, a Breakfast Table Icon
Insert by Laurence Gounel for lifestyle magazine Teritoria, le Mag
Who hasn’t received a bowl with their name on it? With 22 million copies produced since its creation, the Petit Breton with blue ears for handles has earned its place in French heritage. In 2021, it broke records with 87,000 pieces sold. And each one bears the same signature: the name of its owner, painted in the calligraphic style pioneered by Raymond Cordier, then workshop manager in 1950, alongside two small, naive figures outlined in black and frozen amid the vegetation.
Although the company has been producing decorative earthenware since 1946, it has been adapting to baby name trends for 70 years, with 3,809 different names and 2,036 unique ones (ordered only once). It’s such a reliable barometer of naming trends that the company’s website even offers a PDF of the top 500 names…
And while the tableware range has expanded, notably with the tart dish inspired by the decorators’ dividing tray (available in around a hundred designs), it’s the personalised name bowl that remains the company’s enduring success. Founded by Alsatians, the company is now firmly rooted in Brittany.
Bernard Serraz, a graduate of the École des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, is undoubtedly one of the key figures behind this French success story. Arriving from the Niderviller pottery, the founders’ parent company, he was responsible for setting up the Pornic factory in 1947 and running it until 1981, the year he retired. After a brief period of decline, Jules Wagner from Luxembourg (formerly of Villeroy & Boch) purchased the factory and renamed it La Faïencerie de Pornic.
They even market this savoir-faire in the United States under the French Heritage label. Since 2003, new owner Pierre Woda has been breathing new life into the company, inviting French and international artists and designers to reinterpret this instantly recognisable hand-painted earthenware. Each artist brings a unique style, but all share a common thread: illustrations that pay homage to Brittany.
Conclusion
Brittany is a region brimming with beaches, each more beautiful than the last, and each with its own unique charm and character. Whether you’re seeking tranquillity, water sports, or family fun, Brittany’s beaches are sure to captivate you and leave you with unforgettable memories, all while giving you the chance to discover local crafts.
Stay up to date with our latest discoveries and travel tips by signing up for our newsletter. Looking to surprise your loved ones with a unique gift? Explore our gift shop and discover our gift boxes and gift cards valid in all Teritoria hotels and restaurants. Enjoy the magic of Brittany and all the wonders it has to offer!
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