The Costa Meno: France

When people think of the French côtes, it’s often with the assumption that everything within easy reach of the beach is going to be special-occasion expensive. But with three very different coastlines to explore, there are tons of lesser-known, under-the-radar beach towns—and even some gems in the tonier touristed regions—where you can stay somewhere great without spending a fortune. If you’re new to us, “Costa Meno” (a play on “costs less” and an imaginary coastline that is actually affordable) is our guide to hotels (and the occasional house rental) in destinations that tend to be independently owned, inexplicably charming, and under (in this case) 350 euros/night. We’ve already covered Italy, Spain, The Caribbean, Mexico, and the Greek Islands, so France was our natural next stop! Our list begins in the north near the Belgian border, then moves counter-clockwise over to Normandy and Brittany in the northwest, then down to the southwest, before skipping over to the Côte d’Azur…uncovering some amazing finds along the way, from stilted modernist cabins to beachy cottages and toile-filled seaside châteaus. And many of them are even more affordable in September, when it’s still very warm but the crowds are gone. 

NORTH

The “Opal Coast”

Within the Hauts-de-France region, this coastline along the English Channel—stretching from the Belgian border to Picardy—is known for its scattered charming fishing villages, dramatic cliffs and wild capes.

Hôtel de Fiennes in Boulogne-sur-Mer has the sweetest rooms filled with tasteful French antique furniture, in a beautiful building within the town’s historic fort. 

Château de la Marine is a five-minute drive from the seaside town of Wimereux—a grand renovated château with thoughtful rooms.

Hôtel Atlantic is right on the sea in Wimereux with nice, basic rooms for a great price.

L’Accalmie is a simple 4-room chambre d’hôtes in Wimereux with a lovely breakfast room.