Coast and Nature
A prominent feature of the town is the 2.5-hectare seawater pool. It was created in 1989, is surrounded by a sandy beach and lined by a pleasant promenade. Recreational mudflat fishing in La Bernerie-en-Retz is open to everyone, but is restricted by regulations to protect the shoreline zone and its species.
The Sentier d’interprétation leads through typical landscapes of the Pays de Retz, including bocage, wooded areas, sensitive natural environments and wetlands.
The Plage de la Boutinardière and Plage de la Birochère beaches are located in the immediate vicinity of La Bernerie-en-Retz. The Plage de la Source and Plage de la Noëveillard beaches are also nearby.
Culture and History
Until 1873, La Bernerie-en-Retz held the monopoly on building the typical “chatte” boat, an amphidromous vessel that can move forwards and backwards in the same way.
The Nouvelle Maison de l’Histoire houses a documentation centre with more than 8,000 references on the history and cultural heritage of the Pays de Retz. It also offers a cultural programme with exhibitions, lectures and educational workshops that is open to everyone.
The Château de Pornic, a castle, is located near La Bernerie-en-Retz. The Église Saint-Gilles, a church, is also nearby.
Geographical Location
In the wider regional surroundings of La Bernerie-en-Retz are the Chateau de Noirmoutier, a castle, and the ruins of the Abbaye de la Blanche en Noirmoutier.
