Dogs welcome

What can be better than a bracing walk across the beach, with wind in your hair, and the fresh salty smell of the sea, followed by a steaming cup of something hot and your canine companion at your side? Kieranne Grimshaw discovered Nude Food Beach on the south coast, where dogs are given a warm welcome

Situated at La Haule directly on the shore, this beach café and restaurant is the perfect pit stop for both dogs and their owners. There's indoor and patio dining, as well as an al fresco area directly on the beach. With a door at each side of the inside area, dogs always have easy access to outside.

Manager João is no stranger to dogs. 'Back home in Madeira I had three. I've only been here since May, but I love it,' he said. 'People like to bring their dogs here. You can have whatever you want – breakfast, lunch or dinner, or just come for a drink and at the same time have fun with your dogs on the beach. It's a natural play area outside.' This seems an ideal venue with plenty of space, especially at low tide. For anyone with energetic dogs, this is the place to let off steam. It’s also a natural stop between town and St Aubin. For a more diverse walk, there are even some woodland footpaths almost opposite the café – albeit a rather steep incline on the way up.

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Dog owners need not be concerned about their messy pets. With its wooden floor, the establishment is perfectly designed to accommodate dogs all through the year.

'They're always welcome here, even sandy, wet dogs,' Joao said. 'We also open evenings in the summer.’ So, no need to feel guilty about leaving your loved ones behind.

'All the staff love meeting dogs,' João continued. 'Our most regular customer brings in his three dogs every single morning. They are just lovely and part of the family already – they have their own table.'

Two Westies are curled up under a corner table, looking very much at home. Owners, Jane and Nigel declared they visited every weekend. 'The dogs love it here, they get lots of attention. We like it for the beach and the staff are lovely too.' Looking ahead, Joao confirmed the new outlet at La Pulente should be ready by early 2023. 'It will have lots of covers, both inside and out – and be dog friendly, of course!'