Water, Rivers and the Ocean Nearby

One of the great strengths of Nantes is its unique geographical location.
The city offers an exceptional balance between urban life, nature and water — with rivers flowing through the city and the Atlantic Ocean just a short trip away.

For many international students, this connection to water and outdoor activities is a key reason to choose Nantes to live and learn French.

 

Water in the heart of the city

Nantes is shaped by water.
The Loire River, the longest river in France, runs through the city and has played a central role in its history and identity.

The Erdre River, which flows into the Loire, is often described as “the most beautiful river in France” — a phrase traditionally attributed to King François I.
Today, it is a peaceful and green space, ideal for outdoor activities.

In Nantes itself, it is possible to enjoy:

• Rowing (aviron) on the Erdre

• Kayaking and canoeing

• Sailing and leisure boating

• Walks and bike rides along the rivers

All floating activities in Nantes !

 

Sailing and boating around Nantes

Just outside the city, the Loire-Atlantique region offers many opportunities for sailing and boating, whether on rivers, lakes or along the coast.

Ports and marinas in the region welcome both local and international sailing enthusiasts:

• river ports along the Loire

• coastal marinas in Loire-Atlantique and southern Brittany

Discover marinas and ports in the region

 

The Atlantic Ocean and surfing near Nantes

One of Nantes’ biggest attractions is its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
In less than an hour, you can reach long sandy beaches and well-known surf spots.

Popular coastal areas near Nantes include:

• La Baule

• Pornic

• Saint-Brévin-les-Pins

• La Turballe

• Le Croisic

These destinations are ideal for:

• surfing

• bodyboarding

• kitesurfing

• sailing

• swimming and beach life

Some international students even choose Nantes specifically because they can combine French classes with surfing and ocean activities during their stay.

Departure from Nantes to the coast for surfing !

 

A lifestyle that attracts international students

Living in Nantes means enjoying:

• a dynamic cultural city,

• easy access to rivers and nature,

• and the ocean close by.

This lifestyle appeals to people who want more than just language classes.
They want an experience — learning French while enjoying outdoor activities, meeting people and discovering France beyond the classroom.

At FLE Nantes, we regularly welcome students who choose the city for its quality of life, its cultural energy and its closeness to water and the sea.

 

Learning French in a city open to nature

Choosing Nantes to learn French means choosing a city where:

• language learning goes hand in hand with daily life,

• nature is always nearby,

• and experiences are part of the learning process.

Whether you enjoy rivers, sailing or surfing, Nantes offers a unique environment to learn French while fully enjoying life in France.