Passage du Gois

Natural Road Connecting the Isle of Noirmoutier with France

The Passage du Gois is a road that connects the island of Noirmoutier and the mainland at Beauvoir-sur-Mer. Although that is not always visible. The road is flooded twice a day at high tide. It is one of the most remarkable roads in France. You can drive over it at low tide, but it's more fun to walk. Just make sure you time it well.

It's a remarkable sight. This ancient road emerges twice a day at low tide. This is one of the strangest roads you'll ever drive. The Passage du Gois is a road to connects the island of Noirmoutier with the mainland at Beauvoir-sur-Mer.

The natural road across the seabed has been used by locals for centuries to make their way to mainland France. In 1971, they built a bridge so now the island is always accessible, it’s called Le Pont du Noirmoutier.

Popular amongst Tourists

The road is still a favourite amongst the tourists. The 4.125 meter-long road is only accessible at low tide, for about 1.5 hours at low tide and 1.5 hours after.

The ship graveyard in Noirmoutier.

The Passage du Gois is also known for its cockles and venus clams, and at low tide you’ll often see the locals walking along the beach, looking down. You can enjoy these shellfish for lunch with a delicious glass of wine at Noirmoutier or Beauvoir-sur-Mer.

There have been some mishaps when it comes to the flooding of the road. So they’ve installed safety columns you can climb up on should you get into trouble.

Both sides of the passage also have a sign that tells you when it’s safe to cross. And there are electronic clocks and warning signs in three languages.

Accommodation in Beauvoir-sur-Mer

This village is very worthwhile. It appears in several French films and television series. You will find different accommodation in the village, like hotels and Bed & Breakfasts.

Visiting Passage du Gois

The passage is located between Noirmoutier and Beauvoir-sur-Mer. This is located 75 kilometres from Nantes. And can be combined well with a tour through Brittany.

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