The seaside resort Les Sables-d’Olonne, on the French Atlantic coast, is much-loved for its surfing, sailing, long, beautiful stretches of beach, forest landscape, and unspoilt nature. It also offers elegance, public art, fine dining, and boutique accommodation.
Holiday-makers love it and perhaps forget that this is a town of decorum. The sight of shirtless “half-naked” tourists strutting their stuff through his town has prompted Yannick Moreau, the mayor of Les Sables d’Olonne, to make a plea to visitors on his Facebook page (22 July).
“It’s time to remind them clearly: it’s forbidden to walk around naked or in a swimsuit at Sables d’Olonne”. He pointed out that “This is indecent behaviour that has a nasty tendency to escalate summer after summer.
Moreau insists that the ban is a mark of “respect” for the residents of Les Sables-d’Olonne and has instructed municipal police officers in the area to enforce the rule.
Topless tourists face fines up to €150 (£130) if they are caught without clothes away from the beach.
Moreau said: “To flatter your chest and your most beautiful swimsuit at the Sables d’Olonne: 11 km of beaches are at your disposal. Enjoy it, in compliance with the rules and traditions of our resort.”
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The phrase “town of decorum” really stood out to me, as I’ve had the chance to explore the French Atlantic coast with my family. I think it’s interesting that Les Sables-d’Olonne is implementing fines for “half-naked” tourists, as it highlights the importance of respecting local customs and dress codes. As a parent, I always try to teach my kids about cultural sensitivity when we travel. Speaking of beautiful beaches, I’ve noticed that some coastal towns in France have stunning Blue Flag beaches with lifeguards on duty during the peak summer months, which is a huge relief for families like mine. The parallel between these elegant towns and their efforts to maintain a certain level of decorum is something I have been thinking about because it seems to be a common thread along the French coast. I wonder if this new fine will have a significant impact on tourism in Les Sables-d’Olonne, and whether other towns will follow suit.