The painted facades of the harbour front

The tall houses along the harbour were painted to look richer than they were. Cornices, balustrades and whole windows are trompe l’œil, brushed onto flat plaster by painters who knew exactly where the light would fall. Some of the windows you think are open are not there at all.

Walk the front at dusk, in the hour before sunset, when the sun is low over the sea and the colours are deepest. Stand back on the beach for the whole row, then go close to find the joins.

Three minutes from the door, and no ticket needed.