Dog-Friendly Holidays in France

Backed by the famous promenade of the same name, this seven mile stretch of pebbly beach is a great place to hang out throughout the year. Sections of it are privately owned but around half is accessible to the public. Although dogs are not allowed on most sections of the beach, they are welcome on Lanterne beach, at the westernmost end of town.

An excellent choice for anyone who wants to explore the wartime heritage of Normandy, Asnelles is one of the beaches made famous by the D-Day landings. Nowadays, its broad sweep of sands attracts families and those who appreciate swimming in relatively calm waters that are overseen by lifeguards. Between the start of September and the end of June, dogs can run free along the beach, and in the summer months, dogs on a lead are still permitted.

A beach that appeals to lovers of wilder seascapes, Tonelle is as good for windsurfing as it is for dogs. Lifeguards patrol the beach in summer. The dramatic cliffs offer excellent opportunities for photographers. The only downside is the beach's popularity and relative lack of parking. It is best to arrive early to be sure of securing a parking space.

Accessed from a small hamlet called Kerfiat in the Finistère region of Brittany​​, Théven Braz is a hard beach to locate but its secluded nature and dramatic rolling waves make it well worth the effort. It also has much more sand than many guidebooks claim, making it perfect for games of fetch with your dog. Swimming is tricky due to large rocks but, if beach games or strolls on the sand are what appeals to you most, Théven Braz​ is ideal.

In a region where it is difficult to find beaches that allow dogs, the small village beach of Torreilles stands out. It is a wild and largely unspoiled beach that is great for dog walks. On the northern section of the beach, it is interesting to explore the remains of timber structures that were used to provide defence from enemy fire in the Second World War. More developed beaches, offering a range of water sports and other seaside activities, lie further to the south.