Getting around Pornichet without a car
What if you left the car behind for a while? In Pornichet, it is surprisingly easy. As a human-sized seaside town, Pornichet makes getting around simple and enjoyable: on foot, by bike, by scooter, with shuttle services or local buses… Here is a quick overview.
On foot
There is something special about wandering through quiet little avenues. Breathing in the scent of pine trees, admiring Belle Époque villas, gazing out over the Atlantic, exchanging a simple hello with local residents… Here, walking from one place to another means experiencing the town exactly as it should be enjoyed. Pornichet is compact, and distances are never really a barrier.
Arriving by train?
The moment you step off the platform, you are already in the town centre. Hotels, restaurants and local shops are right there waiting for you. A few more steps and suddenly the beach opens up before your eyes. And if there is one thing we highly recommend, it is a walk along the newly redesigned seafront promenade, created especially with pedestrians in mind.
By bike
Whether you prefer mountain biking, classic cycling or an electric bike, Pornichet offers countless cycling routes to explore. Around the town centre, towards the beaches, on your way to the market or venturing further into the surrounding area, the bicycle quickly becomes your best travel companion. Sea breeze in your face, complete freedom and no parking worries… simply pedal and enjoy every moment of your stay.
With just a few turns of the pedals, you can easily reach Saint-Nazaire or La Baule thanks to dedicated cycling lanes and scenic routes crossing woodland and countryside via the Vélocéan cycle route. Pornichet Tourist Office proudly holds the Accueil Vélo label and is strongly committed to promoting low-carbon travel. If you would like to reach us by bike via the Vélocéan route, the itinerary is available here.
Mountain biking enthusiasts can also explore over 7 kilometres of countryside trails and discover Pornichet’s peaceful rural landscapes.
Forgot your bike ?
No problem. Bikes are available to rent from several local specialists, including our partners Le Cabanon à Vélos, Les Vélos de Sainte-Marguerite and Veloc’Ouest. There are also two self-service electric bike rental stations, one at the train station and another near the racecourse roundabout. Very convenient.
A label dedicated entirely to cycling: Accueil Vélo
Pornichet Tourist Office proudly carries the Accueil Vélo certification. What does it entail? It guarantees high-quality services and facilities for cyclists travelling along major cycling routes. Advice, repair kits, practical services… Come and see us.
By bus and shuttle
By bus and shuttle
Walking or cycling all the way to Saint-Nazaire or La Baule does not sound appealing? Fortunately, buses make things easy.
Pornichet and the surrounding peninsula benefit from an excellent public transport network operated by two companies: Ycéo, serving all towns within the Saint-Nazaire urban area, and Lila Presqu’île, connecting destinations across the Guérande Peninsula including Le Pouliguen, La Baule, Le Croisic and Guérande.
A useful tip: transport tickets are available directly at the Tourist Office at discounted rates. And during summer, free seasonal shuttle buses run throughout Pornichet on three dedicated routes — Town Centre, Seafront and Villages — making it easy to get everywhere.
Even by tourist train
For a more original way to get around — and one that feels wonderfully like summer holidays — hop aboard the tourist train. A true icon of the seafront promenade, it follows the coastline between Pornichet and La Baule and offers a memorable scenic ride. Tickets are available at the Tourist Office or directly onboard.
We have also created a dedicated Pornichet without a Car guide, packed with ideas and useful information to help you enjoy your stay differently.
Need more information? Come and see us — the Tourist Office is easily accessible on foot, by bike or by bus ;-)