Best Places for Surfing in Villers-sous-Saint-Leu, France

A Guide to Surfing in the French Riviera

Surfing enthusiasts from around the globe flock to the picturesque shores of Villers-sous-Saint-Leu, a charming town along the English Channel in northern France. Known for its consistent waves and warm climate, this coastal village offers a variety of spots suitable for surfers of all skill levels. Let's explore the top 20 places where you can catch some serious waves.

The Perfect Conditions

Villers-sous-Saint-Leu benefits from a combination of geography and weather patterns that create ideal conditions for surfing. The town’s location on the English Channel means it receives swells from both the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea, providing consistent wave action throughout the year. The water temperature, while cooler than in southern France, remains comfortable thanks to the proximity to the sea.

Top 20 Surfing Spots

1. La Plage du Sillon: A popular spot known for its long, smooth waves ideal for beginners and intermediates.
2. Le Port de Saint-Leu: This beach offers a mix of small waves and more powerful swells during certain times of the year.
3. Les Bains de Saint-Sauveur: Known for its gentle waves, perfect for those learning to surf.
4. La Réserve: A bit further from town but worth the drive for experienced surfers looking for a challenge.
5. Le Brancas: This area offers a mix of small and medium-sized waves, suitable for all skill levels.
6. Saint-Pol-sur-mer Beach: While not in Villers-sous-Saint-Leu itself, this nearby beach is renowned for its consistent waves and is often visited by surfers from the town.
7. La Grande Brèche: A secluded spot with long, powerful waves that can get quite intense during strong onshore winds.
8. La Petite Brèche: Smaller than La Grande Brèche but still offers a good wave count and is less crowded.
9. Les Bains de Saint-Sauveur-les-Aubépins: Another calm spot with gentle waves, perfect for beginners.
10. Le Chêne Noir: Known for its powerful waves that can reach up to 4 meters high during summer storms.
11. La Grande Barre: A more challenging wave break popular among experienced surfers.
12. Les Bains de Sainte-Marie-en-Roumois: Offers a mix of small and medium-sized waves, with a bit of a reputation for strong currents.
13. Le Sillon du Calais: Another long beach known for its steady swells and suitable for all levels.
14. La Grande Plage de Saint-Pol-sur-Mer: A wide stretch of beach that can accommodate many surfers and offers varied wave conditions.
15. Les Bains de Saint-Aubin-en-Roumois: Another calm spot with gentle waves, perfect for beginners.
16. Le Port de Calais: While not directly in Villers-sous-Saint-Leu, this nearby port is a popular surfing destination and offers long rides on the swell.
17. Les Bains de Saint-André-en-Roumois: Known for its consistent waves and relatively calm conditions.
18. Le Brancas Nord: A bit more challenging with powerful waves that can reach up to 3 meters high during strong swells.
19. La Grande Plage de Saint-Pol-sur-Mer (Continued): This large beach offers a range of wave sizes and is often visited by both locals and tourists.
20. Le Port de Sangatte: A more exposed spot with powerful waves, perfect for experienced surfers.

Getting Started in Villers-sous-Saint-Leu

For beginners, it's essential to choose a spot that provides gentle waves and consider taking lessons from local instructors. The town hosts various surf schools that offer both group and private lessons, making it easier for newcomers to learn the basics and enjoy the sport.

Villers-sous-Saint-Leu’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and surfing culture makes it an ideal destination for a memorable surfing experience. With its diverse range of waves and warm, welcoming community, this French coastal town is sure to provide a thrilling surf session year-round.