The district next to Plage du Sillon, northeast of the walled city, grew quickly in the late 19th century furnishing it with many stunning Belle Époque villas.

These were built by wealthy holidaymakers, who gave free rein to their sense of whimsy.

With an itinerary you could have a little walking tour of this leafy neighbourhood, stopping to see fabulous houses like Villa l’Argonne on Boulevard Chateaubriand, which has a stunning octagonal tower and a pattern of alternating glazed and red bricks.

Then Villa Remember on Boulevard Hébert is in an exaggerated Flemish style, with a crow-stepped gable and stone finial.