Arcachon is a pretty French town on the south coast that boasts a huge beach, waterfront restaurants, shopping, watersports, cheap seafood and even campsites.

Brits looking for their next holiday destination, but who don’t want to travel too far, should consider some of the lesser-known towns in France where you'll find gorgeous beaches, delicious seafood and plenty of sun.

One such hotspot is Arcachon, on the southwest coast of France, which is a charming seaside town boasting plenty of natural beauty and a chill atmosphere for relaxing. As it’s just over the channel you can reach the town by car though it will take over eight hours to drive there from Calais, or by plane in just an hour and 40 minutes.

The "hidden gem" boasts sunshine and average highs of 75 degrees in the summer months and is right on the beach. It has bays that stretch along the Atlantic coast, providing tons of space for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

a much smaller town than hotspots like Paris and Nice it’s great for those who want a relaxed holiday, but still offers plenty to do. The main beach, Plage Pereire, is popular with families and has calm, blue water that’s great for swimming and paddling.

You can also explore the beautiful Arcachon Bay by taking a boat trip or a ferry ride. You can also visit the nearby Île aux Oiseaux or Bird Island which is perfect for bird spotters. Foodies can take a tour of the oyster farms to learn about the region's rich oyster culture.

Speaking of which, the seafood in the town is top quality – and cheap. Not only can you get stuck into local oysters, mussels, and seafood platters at the waterfront restaurants or markets, but you’ll get great prices too. If you buy them from the markets you can bag 12 for as little as $7.

Don't miss the daily indoor market, Marché Municipal, where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and other regional delicacies too. Plus, stroll through the town center to admire the Belle Epoque architecture and beautiful sights such as the iconic Villa Tosca and Villa Algerienne.

Cycling and hiking are also popular as the area offers trails that wind through pine forests, along the bay and across the coast offering great views out over the ocean. Just a short drive from Arcachon is the Dune du Pilat, Europe's tallest sand dune, when you get to the top you’ll enjoy top sea views and a look across the Banc d'Arguin nature reserve.

The town is a great base from which to explore the wider Aquitaine region. You can take day trips and visit nearby hotspots like Bordeaux, with its world-class wineries and historic landmarks, or the wine-growing region of Saint-Émilion. There are also a number of castles, cathedrals and lush gardens within driving distance for that classic French holiday vibe. Plus, Parc de La Coccinelle – a theme park – offers rides and slides as well as a petting farm.

London travel blogger Anna, called the town a "hidden gem" and praised it as "charming". She said it’s a "French coastal town you probably haven’t heard of but absolutely have to add to your bucket list". In her video she showed off relaxed waterfront cafes, shopping streets with boutiques, gorgeous buildings and the golden sand at the beach.

Daily Star UK