Overview
Situated along the Loire Estuary, Saint-Nazaire does not shy away from its lack of picturesque charm, focusing instead on being a bustling epicenter of industry and innovation. It is renowned for its impressive machinery, significant engineering projects, and rich military history, making it a unique destination within France. The shipbuilding sector thrived in the 1800s, followed by aviation advancements in the 20th century, and today, this dynamic locale continues to be a hub for advanced manufacturing.
The essence of Saint-Nazaire is captured by the submarine pens located in the harbour: formidable concrete structures that remain intact yet are now home to various attractions.
1. Submarine Base
Prior to World War II, Saint-Nazaire served as the departure point for transatlantic cruises to locations including Mexico, Cuba, and Panama. However, post-1941, the site was repurposed for a robust submarine pen utilizing a 19th-century lock and fortified with nine metres of impenetrable concrete. Many U-boats participated in the Battle of the Atlantic from this very base, which emerged from the war largely unscathed.
Within the grounds, visitors can explore fascinating exhibits featuring vessels such as the Espadon and the Écal’ Atlantic.
2. Escal’ Atlantic
Embracing the allure of the golden age of cruising, this exhibition within the submarine base acquaints visitors with the opulent interiors and engineering marvels of two historical ships: the SS Normandie, launched in 1935, and the SS France, introduced in 1960. The guided walking experience navigates through 20 diverse rooms, showcasing spaces such as a dining room, piano bar, and both economic and luxury cabins, while also revealing production processes in the engine room and bridge.
Interactive displays and multimedia installations cater to younger audiences, while adults can appreciate over 200 authentic artifacts from these iconic liners.
3. French Submarine Espadon
The name “Espadon,” which translates to “swordfish” in French, refers to this submarine accessible at the former Nazi U-boat base. Commissioned in Le Havre in 1957, it holds the distinction of being the first French submarine to navigate beneath the Polar Ice, reaching as far north as 70° in the Norwegian Sea. Equipped with an audio guide, visitors can delve into the daily routines of the 70-member crew through the cramped corridors, dining areas, and kitchens, all while appreciating the added dimension of sound effects and scientific insights.
4. Terrasse Panoramique
Visitors can access the elevated terrace either by elevator or by ascending the scenic staircase that leads to breathtaking panoramic views. From this vantage point, the expansive Penhoët dock, spanning 22 hectares, comes into view as one of Europe’s largest. Additionally, the terrace features “Suite de Triangles,” an installation by Swiss artist Felice Varini, renowned for his perspective-based art, which creates an illusion that only aligns when viewed from a specific angle.
5. STX Shipyard Tour
This exclusive two-hour tour provides an inside look at the STX shipyard, a premier facility employing thousands of skilled workers utilizing cutting-edge technology. These docks were responsible for constructing the MS Harmony of the Seas, the world’s largest passenger vessel, which had its maiden voyage in 2016. Departing from the submarine base, the bus tour covers a six-kilometre route with frequent stops for photography and in-depth commentary from knowledgeable guides. Tours take place on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with a weekly English-speaking tour planned in July and August.
6. Airbus Tour
Operating from the Submarine Base, this bus tour offers access to the state-of-the-art Airbus assembly site in Saint-Nazaire, available every Wednesday and Friday. Due to the confidentiality of the facility, advance reservation is required at least 48 hours prior, along with a form of identification. This Airbus location primarily focuses on the assembly and testing of the front and central fuselage sections for all aircraft manufactured by the brand prior to their shipment to completion facilities in Toulouse, Spain, or Germany. Witnessing massive Beluga cargo planes loading complete aircraft fuselages is a remarkable experience.
7. Front de Mer
In recent years, Saint-Nazaire has revitalised its waterfront promenade adjacent to the Wilson and Albert 1er Boulevards. Enhancements include the planting of trees, establishment of lawns, and expansion of walkways, creating an idyllic setting for leisurely walks. This revitalized area provides a welcome respite on warm summer days, with several bars and expansive terraces offering ocean views complemented by refreshing beverages. Along the promenade, visitors can also discover various memorials, including tributes to the sinking of HMS Lancastria and the American recapture of Saint-Nazaire during World War II.
8. Écomusée de Saint-Nazaire
Positioned on the harbour facing the shipyards, the Écomusée serves as a small permanent exhibition dedicated to the maritime heritage of Saint-Nazaire. The exhibition commences with prehistory and progresses through the 19th century, highlighting key technological advancements over the past century and a half. Visitors can investigate some of the legendary vessels constructed in Saint-Nazaire, including models of the SS Normandie, SS France, and groundbreaking Loire seaplanes produced in the 1930s. Admission to the Écomusée is included with the ticket for Escal’ Atlantic.
9. Plage les Jaunais
To the west of Saint-Nazaire, the natural landscape transforms into rugged, wild coastlines adorned with picturesque sandy beaches along the Côte d’Amour, the finest of which is Plage les Jaunais. This 500-metre beach features ample parking and is supervised by lifeguards throughout July and August. The shallow sandy waters of the bay are ideal for family swimming, while the rocky fringes create intriguing pools perfect for crab hunting. Nearby, a secluded cove often frequented by naturists offers an additional layer of allure and tranquility.
10. Pont de Saint-Nazaire
The elevated views from the lock and submarine base offer a striking perspective of the magnificent bridge spanning the estuary. Completed in 1975, this structure was not only the longest bridge in France at the time but also held the title of the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world until 1983. Measuring over 3.3 kilometres in total length, with a height approaching 60 metres, it stands as a prominent landmark visible from a distance. Avid Tour de France followers may recall that the Pont de Saint-Nazaire has featured on the race course multiple times, with its last appearance recorded in 2011.
11. Prehistoric Monuments
The Tumulus de Dissignac, located a few kilometers west of the city, is a remarkable megalithic burial mound estimated to date back to approximately 4,500 BC, making it the oldest man-made structure in the entire Loire-Atlantique region. One of its two burial chambers houses a stone marked with enigmatic, unreadable engravings. Guided tours of this historic site are available in July and August. Additionally, in the heart of Saint-Nazaire, the Place du Dolmen showcases a trilithon dolmen alongside a menhir from the Neolithic period, symbolizing the area’s rich prehistoric legacy.
12. Jardin des Plantes
Adjacent to the waterfront promenade, the Jardin des Plantes was established in 1880, featuring a serene botanical garden characterized by an English landscaping style. Visitors can wander along meandering paths that pass through well-manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and majestic trees sourced from both France’s Atlantic coastline and the Mediterranean. A variety of southern pine and palm species thrive due to the local climate’s mild temperatures and ample sunshine. The garden provides an inviting space for relaxation, where visitors might enjoy the stunning ocean views from its southern edge.
13. Guérande
Continuing along the coastline brings you to the walled medieval city of Guérande, an essential stop for those exploring the Loire-Atlantique region. The setting is striking and unique, surrounded by salt marshes to the south and the impenetrable Brière swamp to the north. The town’s fortifications were established during the 14th-century conflict of the War of the Breton Succession. Guests can walk along portions of the walls and visit the Porte Saint-Michel, which houses a museum dedicated to the city’s defensive history. In contrast to Saint-Nazaire, Guérande boasts a quaint, tourist-friendly atmosphere highlighted by charming crêperies and artisanal shops.
14. Loire à Vélo
At this estuarine location, one may be surprised to find themselves alongside the same river that winds past the stunning châteaux in Indre-et-Loire. The excellent Loire à Vélo cycling route traverses this area, with Saint-Nazaire serving as the starting point for this extensive 800-kilometre network. The city has significantly improved its bicycling infrastructure in recent years, including a newly established 10-kilometre loop that connects to the Submarine Base and offers a scenic ride along the estuary. This loop connects with an additional 170 kilometres of car-free paths, predominantly along flat terrain, although cyclists should be cautious on windy days.
15. Ocean Cruises
In a city closely tied to the Atlantic Ocean, embarking on a cruise from the harbour is a fitting activity. There are three options available to choose from: the first offers a panoramic perspective of Saint-Nazaire, sailing past the scenic cliffs, secluded coves, and pristine beaches to the west, as well as glimpses of the town’s significant industrial sector. Alternatively, one can venture further to appreciate the elegant resorts of the Côte d’Amour from the water, including viewing the Escoublac sand dune, one of Europe’s tallest. Finally, the nocturnal cruise “La Route des Phares” features the twinkling lighthouses and signals illuminating the shoreline at night.
