Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef

Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef

  • La Rousselerie beach in Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef - © Stéphane Grossin

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Just 60 km from Nantes, between the seaside resorts of Saint Brévin-Les-Pins and La Plaine-sur-Mer, Saint Michel-Chef-Chef stands out for its unique coastal charm, combining gastronomic traditions and unspoilt natural landscapes.

Renowned for its emblematic Galettes Saint Michel, this tourist destination is a must for food lovers, adventure-seeking families and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you're drawn to sandy beaches, hiking trails or discovering local specialties, Saint Michel-Chef-Chef promises unforgettable moments between land and sea

Presentation

Did you know ?

A fascinating history

Saint Michel-Chef-Chef, formerly known as Saint-Michel du Chevecier, has seen its name evolve over the centuries. In 1792, the French Revolution forced a change, giving rise to the current Chef-Chef, an unusual name that intrigues and amuses visitors. This historical detail is a fine example of the evolution of place names in France.

A linguistic curiosity

The double name “Chef-Chef” symbolizes a time when commune names were adapted for political reasons. Today, it's a distinctive feature that contributes to the identity of this charming commune on the Atlantic coast. 
  • Gohaud Beach Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef - © Stéphane Grossin
  • Gohaud Beach Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef - © Stéphane Grossin

A gourmet commune 

The famous galettes St-Michel

It's impossible to visit Saint Michel-Chef-Chef without being tempted by its famous butter galettes... A must for epicureans: L'Atelier Saint Michel and its St Michel Café !
The warm and authentic boutique offers over 200 references of traditional cookies, soft cakes and exclusive creations.

Committed producers and restaurateurs

In Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef, lovers of good produce and responsible cooking will find what they're looking for, thanks to a number of committed producers and restaurateurs. Ferme Gineau, proud of its farming traditions, was recognized at the Salon de l'Agriculture for its delicious yoghurts, awarded for their quality and authenticity To extend the experience, its boutique La Pause Locale offers a selection of farm and local products, ideal for filling your basket with local flavours.

Not far from there, Le Garde-Manger, a convivial restaurant-grocery, honors short circuits by working hand-in-hand with local producers. With its generous dishes and welcoming atmosphere, this establishment is a veritable ode to eating well and sharing
  • L'Atelier Saint-Michel in Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef - © Patrick Gerard

Children will love Saint Michel-Chef-Chef

Ideal for families !

Parents with young children will find plenty of activities to keep their tribe busy throughout their stay :
  • the youngest will marvel at the Carrousel et voltige baroque de Tharon, a seaside must-see,
  • have fun at the mini-golf course, perfect for sharing family moments together 
  • for a fun ride, the famousrosalies”, multi-seater bicycles, offer an original way to discover the town !
  • for the more adventurous, the town's pumptrack is the ideal place to challenge friends on a scooter, BMX or skateboard,
  • and for speed enthusiasts, head for the karting track, where budding drivers can get their adrenalin pumping ! 

There's something for everyone, young and old, for an unforgettable vacation !
  • Rosalies in Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef - © Mélanie Chaigneau
  • Fishing at Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef - © Mélanie Chaigneau
  • Minigolf in Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef - © Mélanie Chaigneau
  • Kite flying in Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef - © Mélanie Chaigneau

A variety of activities to suit all tastes

In Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef, outdoor enthusiasts will find a wide range of activities to make the most of the exceptional coastal setting.

Water sports

Water sports enthusiasts can indulge in surfing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking or bodyboarding, while more leisurely pursuits include longe-côte or fishing on the large stretches of sand at low tide. An ideal family activity for exploring the riches of the coastline. 

Other fun activities !

For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground but their heads in the clouds, kite flying offers a colorful spectacle in the sky... while sand yachting lets you glide along the beach on the wind. Hop on an electric scooter or a scooter to enjoy the coastline in peace and quiet! Finally, for a more relaxed break, the cinema offers a convivial alternative for enjoying a moment of entertainment with family or friends.
  • Surfing lessons in Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef - © Mélanie Chaigneau

The beaches of Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef

A preserved natural heritage

Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef's coastline boasts 4.5 km of superb beaches where relaxation and fresh air blend harmoniously. 
The large Tharon beach is the most emblematic, with its vast fine sand ideal for a family day out or an invigorating stroll facing the Atlantic. From swimming to fishing and sand yachting, there's no shortage of activities to make the most of this unspoilt setting. The surrounding coves are wilder and more intimate, offering a peaceful escape for nature lovers. Whether you've come to recharge your batteries or indulge in the pleasures of the water, the beaches of Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef promise a real breath of iodized air.

The fisheries, elegant and unmissable

The traditional fisheries, with their hanging square nets, are icons of the coastline. The famous blue fishery at Tharon-Plage is an unforgettable sight, especially at sunset. These fishing huts are an integral part of the landscape and the memories of holidaymakers to Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef !
 
  • La Rousselerie beach in Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef - © Stéphane Grossin

Walking and cycling

Nature, calm and serenity

In Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef, nature flourishes in unspoilt areas where it's easy to get around on foot or by bike.
The Etang des Gâtineaux, a veritable haven of peace, invites you to relax with its peaceful setting and varied fauna. 
Nearby Bois Roy offers a lush green setting ideal for hiking and shady walks. Linking these natural areas, the Coulée Verte winds its way through the commune, offering a pleasant itinerary for walkers in search of calm and bucolic landscapes. So many places to discover and escape to, in the heart of a preserved environment. 
Finally, the “sentier des douaniers(GR8) offers walkers exceptional panoramic views of beaches, cliffs and lush green countryside. Between sea, ponds and forests, Saint Michel-Chef-Chef is a must-see destination for nature lovers.
 
  • Etang des Gâtineaux in Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef - © Elise Fournier

Not to be missed !

Here are a few more ideas and tips for activities to discover...

 A guided tour of Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef

Accompanied by our enthusiastic guide Paul, discover the history of Tharon-Plage through an enriching guided tour. Chapelle Sainte-Anne, Grand Escalier, villas and fascinating anecdotes await you on this walk accessible to all. 

 Llama and alpaca breeding

Aurélie and her camelids welcome you to the Écrin de la Belle Étoile ! Visits, snacks, discovery workshops, festive events in a soothing setting for young and old. This encounter will be one of the unforgettable memories of your stay in Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef!

 Painting on porcelain and glass: Arielle M.'s workshop 

Finally, let yourself be seduced by Arielle M.'s workshop in Tharon-Plage. Jewelry, lighting fixtures and glass paintings: a place that combines local arts and crafts, perfect for the curious and the passionate. 
  • Guided tour with Paul at Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef - © Mélanie Chaigneau

Not-to-be-missed events

Saint Michel-Chef-Chef is alive with festive and cultural events all year round. 
  • All year round, the Tharon markets enliven the town with their fresh produce and local crafts, while in summer, the night markets add a festive touch, ideal for strolling under the stars.
  • Summer is also marked by Celtijade, a festival combining Celtic music, dance and traditions, to the delight of culture lovers. 
  • In August, it's magic time with the illumination of the fisheries, an enchanting spectacle that sublimates the coastline. 
  • In December, the arrival of Santa Claus on the beach delights young and old alike, in a magical atmosphere. 
  •  - © Johanna Le Roy

The team's favorite

Marie-Charlotte, Tourist Advisor and Quality Assistant at Ma Destination Pornic, is passionate about her region. She is particularly fond of the Tharon-Plage seafront and its breathtaking sunset, which she invites you to discover on her Monday morning bike rides.

 “Ferme Gineau and its farm store, La Pause Locale, are treasures for lovers of local produce. When you buy fresh vegetables, farmhouse cheeses or artisan jams, you're supporting local producers while tasting products of excellence.”
  • Marie-Charlotte's bike ride to Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef - © Mélanie Chaigneau

To know

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