Pubblicato il 23 July 2025 da Redazione in Actuality, Antibes, Cannes, Lifestyle, Menton, Monaco, Nice

A More Accessible French Riviera: Inclusive Beaches and Barrier-Free Services

Villeneuve-Loubet, Cagnes-sur-Mer, and Nice invest in simple yet effective solutions to ensure sea access for all
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Immagine A More Accessible French Riviera: Inclusive Beaches and Barrier-Free Services

Slippery rocks, strong waves, uneven shorelines: for many people with reduced mobility, a swim in the sea can be more of a challenge than a pleasure. But things are changing along the Côte d’Azur. Several towns are taking real steps toward making their beaches more accessible and genuinely inclusive.

Support ropes and assistance: bringing the sea closer to everyone
One of this summer’s most impactful innovations is the installation of in-water support ropes. Firmly anchored in the sand and sometimes weighted to stay in place, these simple tools help swimmers reach the shore with greater ease and independence. A practical idea that makes a big difference.

Villeneuve-Loubet and Cagnes-sur-Mer: reliability and continuity
Villeneuve-Loubet has been a trailblazer since 2014: all seven of its beaches are equipped each summer, from May to September, with these helpful ropes. In Cagnes-sur-Mer, the service was extended last year to four beaches, with installations limited to summer months to avoid winter storm damage.

Nice expands its inclusive approach: six equipped beaches
Nice is also stepping up its commitment to accessibility. From July 1 to August 31, six public beaches – including Ponchettes, Centenaire, and newcomer Carras – will feature exit ropes. Mayor Christian Estrosi has announced plans to eventually extend the service across all public beaches, depending on their layout and access conditions.

Beyond “handiplage”: a more inclusive vocabulary
In Nice, the Centenaire and Carras beaches are fully equipped to welcome people with disabilities: access ramps, cement pathways, accessible restrooms, and trained staff are available daily from 10:45 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. However, local officials prefer the term “beaches for all” – a broader, more inclusive concept that reflects diverse needs.

Free access, no paperwork required
Unlike in other destinations like Antibes, no reservation or disability ID is needed in Nice. Access is completely free and open to anyone needing assistance – whether temporary or long-term. Shade tents, changing rooms, ramps, and professional support are all part of a welcoming, respectful beach experience.

A meaningful journey, with room to grow
Some issues still remain – such as delayed setups or overly hot cement platforms – but local governments are listening. Real inclusion is built step by step, with attention to both infrastructure and people. Sometimes, a simple rope can be the key to making a day at the beach truly enjoyable.