Montalivet is situated on the Atlantic Coast of France between the sand beaches of the Atlantic shoreline and the Gironde Estuary in the Medoc region. With limited accommodation (no building over two stories) rentals include apartments, beach houses and villas. There are also a few campsites and hotels found in and around the village, some of which have direct access to the beach. The main summer season in this region of France lasts from the middle of June to the end of August.
Surrounding this rural beach community you will find activities for all age groups and preferences. If its sport which you are looking for; the sea and the inland freshwater lakes close by are great locations for fishing, landyachting, canoeing, kite surfing, sailing and surfing. Otherwise you can try your hand at paintball, polo, horse riding or have a trip in the trees at the local adventure park.
The village is the home base for a few events during the summer months including the "aquitaine show bike" (over 10.000 bikes) a "vintage car meeting" called the montacar oldskool and a "longboard surf competition" which runs in September every other year (2015, 2017, 2019 etc). But book your place to stay early as there are not that many beds in the hotels and campsites of the village.
Montalivet has an open air market taking place each day during the summer months. This market with its colourful blend of market stalls and stands which are famous for their produce and atmosphere ( lots of wine to taste). Open from 8.30 am until 2pm each day. Art is also a part of village life with a budding art gallery open most of the year close to the market where you can find a great beach mat for your front door .
Surf at Montalivet Les Bains: The village of Montalivet-les-Bains is one of the most northern surf spots of this 200 km sand beach running along the Gironde coast line. The best season for good quality surf and warm water is from September to October with the long reach swells coming in as the Atlantic throws her first winter storms. During this season of shifting peaks and powerful rips, Montalivet-les-Bains is an ideal surf location when the surf in the villages further south is closing out. Also you have a great surf shop here in the village.
Need to rent a surfboard for a few days while in the Medoc ? Shortboards, Longboards bodyboards and wetsuits for rent by the hour or week. Board rentals allow you to catch some good waves and hang out for a classic day on the beach. But please note; it's up to you and at your own risk. Always check local conditions before surfing. Check the surf, tides times, wind direction, talk to locals and lifeguards, look for rips and other currents.
Lots more information about the village here Web: https://www.montalivet-info.com/ written : 2003 / latest update : 2021
