Things You'll Need:
- Surfboard
- Wetsuit
- Car
- Map
- French Phrasebook
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Step 1
Start at Le Lizay on the Île de Ré. This lefthanded wave is compact and powerful, and actually begins to break righthanded as the tides rise. If there is a western wind, make sure you are in the water; Le Lizay forms into a picture-perfect A-frame with that type of wind. Because of a strong riptide and the strange placement of rocks, only skilled surfers should ride at Le Lizay.
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Step 2
Island-hop to Les Boulassiers on the Île d’ Oléron. This spot is a strange one. When a large swell rolls through the Bay of Biscay, Les Boulassiers turns into a long and mellow lefthanded wave, instead of becoming sloppy. When the tide is high enough, you can find gorgeous rides on this quaint island.
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Step 3
Head to northwestern part of the island and Chassiron. The uneven surface below Chassiron makes this spot a bit fickle, but during low tide you can find short, powerful rights and some long lefthanded waves. Be sure to wear booties, as you’ll have to cross sharp rocks on the walk out to the water. Watch for an extremely strong riptide as well.
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Step 4
Count on Saint Trojan. Always working and always beautiful, this spot thankfully isn’t always crowded. Part of the allure of Saint Trojan is the assortment of peaks. The placement and shape of each peak depends on the speed and direction of the wind, as well as the strength of the current.
