Foncillon Beach

Foncillon beach, the first beach of Royan

Foncillon beach was the first of Royan to welcome bathers, from the beginning of the nineteenth century. Nestled near the port, facing the Congress Palace, it marks the beginnings of Royan as a seaside resort. The Royan audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this historic place of sea bathing.

The cradle of sea bathing in Royan

From 1819, the mayor Labarthe reserved access to Foncillon beach for bathers, making this place the cradle of sea bathing in Royan. It is here that the seaside vocation of the city was born, long before it became a renowned resort. Located between the Pointe du Chay and the port, facing the Congress Palace, this small family beach has kept an intimate character.

What to see

Small and family-friendly, Foncillon beach offers a pleasant setting near the port, facing the Congress Palace. Here you enjoy the sand, the swimming and the views of the rebuilt seafront. It is a stop that recalls the seaside origins of Royan, in an area close to the centre and full of history.

Practical information

Foncillon beach lies near the port of Royan, facing the Congress Palace, reachable on foot. It is a freely accessible public beach; swimming depends on the season and supervision, to be checked on site. Suitable for families, it lends itself to a pleasant stop during the walk on the seafront.

Why is Foncillon beach historic?

Because it was the first beach of Royan open to bathers, from 1819, marking the beginnings of the city as a seaside resort.

Where is Foncillon beach?

Near the port of Royan, between the Pointe du Chay and the port, facing the Congress Palace.