Are all the beaches naturist beaches?

No, naturism is only practised within the CHM and on the beach associated with the campsite.

Is it possible to practise naturism without joining the CHM?

Yes, you can reach the CHM beach by walking along the coast. You will be able to practise naturism in complete peace and quiet. However, you will not be allowed to enter the campsite to make use of the facilities it offers.

History of naturism

Montalivet is renowned for its exceptional natural surroundings, and this is also reflected in its unique history with naturism. It is in the heartof this unspoilt natural environment that the values of naturism come to life: the Centre Hélio-Marin de Montalivet, or the “CHM de Monta”, a naturist village with over 3,000 pitches, was established here in 1950. Nestled between pine forests and the ocean, the cradle of naturism in Europe awaits you for a family holiday in harmony with nature.

The beginnings of naturism

Montalivet has always inspired a sense of freedom. As early as the 1950s, our resort saw the growth of naturism.

A way of life that encourages nudity in harmony with nature, it is based on respect for oneself, for others and for the environment. It is a movement that invites people to go without clothes in appropriate settings such as beaches, campsites or designated naturist centres.

It was in 1950 that the Centre Naturiste Hélio-Marin de Guyenne,Europe’s first naturist holiday centre, was founded by Albert and Christiane Lecocq. Passionate visionaries, they were convinced that the various natural elements encountered by the naked body foster both physical and mental wellbeing.
They went on to found the French Naturist Federation (FFN) that same year, making Montalivet an iconic destination for the practice.

Find out more about the CHM

A tradition that spans generations and continues today

By becoming France’s first naturist holiday village, the CHM has always appealed to families and people of all ages.The values associated with naturism are tailored to suit everyone, offering an immersive experience where kindness and tolerance are the watchwords.

Even today, naturism is passed down from generation to generation, demonstrating that it is a genuine way of life and way of thinking that is shared.
We are also seeing the arrival of new practitioners, keen to discover a new
philosophy of life.

Discover the story of four generations who tell the story of the CHM

MONTA STORIES

Unspoilt beaches

The Atlantic coast offers usincredible, unspoilt natural landscapes. The CHM naturist beach – the first of its kind in France and stretching for almost 3 km – guarantees complete freedom to practise naturism, whilst fully respecting its values.