In the United Kingdom, the magnificent coast of Scotland draws you towards the Outer Hebrides. These islands have a strong Scandinavian influence, as the Vikings left many traces. There is a wealth of nature here, among which are numerous bird colonies.

The Orkney Islands will make you think you’ve reached the ends of the earth: sea melds with sky, creating a luminous, ever-changing panorama. In the Hebrides, the Isle of Skye presents you with a wild landscape of barren, wind-swept hills, jagged cliffs, and rushing waterfalls.

Northern Ireland has a remarkably craggy coastline. The coastal road in Derry (Londonderry) is absolutely beautiful. As for the Giant’s Causeway, legend says it was built by a giant who needed a way to travel to his rival in Scotland; the site is spectacular and is recognized by UNESCO. Those who doubt the existence of giants attribute the site, more prosaically, to a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago.

In Ireland, the Atlantic bathes the entire west coast: the counties of Donegal, with its disarmingly lovely scenery, the Arran Islands, steeped in tradition, the legendary Connemara, dotted with lakes and famous for its capital, Galway, and further south, the renowned Ring of Kerry and the enchanting Dingle Peninsula. This is postcard Ireland.

Let’s continue under Celtic influence as we glide towards France and the coast of Brittany. Taste the seafood and famous Breton crêpes, immerse yourself in history at the standing stones of Carnac. Farther south, continue your navigation along the Pays de la Loire : moor for a while in the Bay of Baule, then, still further south, stop at Vendée to see the islands of Noirmoutier, Yeu, and Sable d’Olonne.

Next you’ll find yourself in Poitou, in the Ile de Ré region, just offshore from the marvellous port of La Rochelle. Make a long call at the Ile d’Oléron to sample the oysters, then move on to visit the fortified town of Royan and the estuary of the river Gironde, with its long stretches of white sand.

Aquitaine invites you to relax or enjoy some sport: the enormous beaches and the Bay of Arcachon lead you gently to the fiercely proud Landes region. Before arriving at the legendary swimming beaches of the Basque coast (Anglet and Biarritz), don’t miss a stay at Saint Jean de Luz: this is a city of great charm as well as architectural richness.

The Basque Country extends along the other side of the border, leading you into Spain: its irregular coastline, numerous cliffs and rocky inlets make for a most seductive panorama. The excellent beaches on the Costa Cantabria harbour beauties such as the Bay of Santander, nestled among the cliffs. The Autonomous Region of Asturia (Costa Verde) is home to some of the most gorgeous beaches on the Iberian Peninsula.

Finally, in Andalusia, there are two key words to describe the Costa de la Luz. Cadiz, the oldest city in the West (founded by the Phoenicians 3,000 years ago), with an equally riveting historical heritage, and superb beaches.

Portugal has many protected areas along its Atlantic coast. When you’ve seen everything in Porto, descend to the long, white sandy beaches, and launch your board on the excellent surfing waves before continuing on to explore Lisbon. This magnificent city has a fascinating history, an undeniably rich culture, and shines with its old quarters.

The Alentejo coastline is so untouched it will seem as if you’re the first person ever to find it. The natural park in the southwest of the region exemplifies the beauty of its beaches. The enticing fishing villages will welcome you to taste some fresh fish while you admire the beach. Then, let yourself relax on a chaise longue, enjoy the sun on your face, fill your lungs with fresh sea air and let your eyes be dazzled by the view.

The Algarve, with its white cliffs and long, sandy beaches, provides spectacular views of the Atlantic.