Best French Naturist Spots and Nudist Beaches

in the South of France

With its Mediterranean climate and its heavenly beaches, the south of France is a perfect destination for swimming or sunbathing. Whether you are already an enthusiast or still hesitating, here is our selection of naturist spots and nude beaches to discover naturism.

L’île du Levant and the origins of naturist holidays

Off to one of the Iles d’Or which stand majestically in the sea opposite Hyères: l’Ile du Levant. A cousin of Port-Cros and Porquerolles, the island is particular in that it is divided into a military zone and a naturist zone. Which has also been the International Naturist Centre of l’Île du Levant since 1929. The centre was set up by doctors Gaston and André Durville, who were behind the naturist movement in France. We recommend you go to the Les Grottes beach, which is the best-known on the island. With its fine sand, crystal-clear waters and its fantastic view of Port-Cros, it’s the ideal setting for launching into the adventure of naturism. For those of you who are curious, other creeks can be accessed on the naturist’s trail. And if you want to extend your visit, head for the Héliotel or the Bazar du Levant, a French naturist institution

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Some of the most beautiful nudist beaches in France

Looking for the best nudist spots in the South of France? You can swim or sunbathe naked on beaches where naturism is permitted.

Head for the discreet Cap Taillat beach in Ramatuelle in the Var. You can get there on foot along the coast from L’Escalet beach. A little further on, real food-lovers will find their pleasure on the Le Layet beach in Le Lavandou (also known as L’Anse du Boucanier). A beautiful sandy beach to tan, swim and also eat in the restaurant installé on the beach.

But we cannot talk of nudist beaches without mentioning the mythical Pampelonne beach (plage de Pampelonne), at the level of Les Tamaris. A must during your nudist holidays situated near the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, you can get there on Chemin de la Matarane.

And, last but not least, you’ll just love the wild coastline of the popular Piémanson beach (plage de Piémanson). Located in Salin-de-Giraud, in the Natural Park of Camargue, this picturesque beach is renowned for its rolling dunes and plants.

Naturist holidays in the heart of nature

France is one of the most famous naturist destinations in the world.

And for naturist holidays you’ll need naturist accommodation (hotels, campsites…). Put on your shoes and your rucksack, and head for the nudist Castillon de Provence campsite. Nestling in the mountains of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, there’s a pool and access to one of the lake’s beaches. A 100% nature area that will give you the feeling of being the only person on earth. There are also creative workshops with an artist. Another option is the Gîte Naturiste Abêlia: a haven of peace hidden in the mountains of the Mercantour. Enjoy the comfort of a little gipsy caravan, the pool, the sauna and the jacuzzi in peace and quiet. Nearby: take a ride to the resort of La Colmiane or Parc Alpha and its wild wolves.

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Where can I do naturism?

For all you seasoned naturists or first-timers, we recommend you have a look, before you leave, at the legislation relative to your holiday place. In France, the practising of naturism is strictly regulated and limits it to beaches subject to bylaws. Nudism can also be tolerated on other beaches. Your best bet: the “Naturiste par Nature” mobile app, a good ally for new nudists which will provide you with all the practical information you need for successful naturist holidays. It lists the main naturist sites in France and is available on App Store and Google Play.

Women can also tan topless on many beaches in France, where this practice is permitted (with some exceptions). For more information, you can contact the tourist office of your holiday town.