If you’re looking for a breath of fresh sea air, why not visit one of the many islands of Brittany? Each one is a treasure, with its own unique character. If you’re looking for a invigorating getaway, read on!
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1. Île d’Arz, for water sports and untamed natural landscapes
Several sailing schools are based out of Île d’Arz (pronounced “Ar”, which means “bear” in Breton). Visitors enjoy swimming in the island’s many inlets. The mild climate and exceptional setting have also inspired many of the local farmers to embrace the island’s wild nature by choosing organic farming methods!
2. For a chic, legendary experience, head to Belle-Île-en-Mer
The island of Belle-Île needs no introduction Made famous in part thanks to Alain Souchon, who sang about it in 1985 (in association with Marie-Galante, in the Caribbean), this Breton island attracts more than 380,000 visitors each year. And where there is tourism, you find...expensive real estate and crowds in tourist season! But nevertheless, the faithful keep coming back to Belle-Île-en-Mer every year. And once you’ve visited, it’s easy to see why…
Access: Quiberon train station and boat all year round (50mn crossing). From April to October, shipping companies serve the island from the ports of Vannes, Port Navalo, Le Croisic and La Turballe.
3. Finding authenticity on the Ile de Groix
Île de Groix has had the same emblem for more than a hundred years: the tuna. Yes indeed, the island, with its famous “dundees” (fishing boats), is well known among fishermen. It may not be the largest tuna fishing port in the world anymore, but it is still just as charming and authentic as ever. As you stroll along the trails or the beach, keep an eye out for some of the more than sixty minerals that have been counted on Groix!
Access: Lorient train station, then by boat (45mn crossing).
4. Exceptional views from Île de Sein
In just an hour’s boat ride from the coast, you can reach Iîle de Sein. With its impression of being at the ends of the earth and its breathtaking landscapes, the island is authentic and 100% car-free. While you’re there, don’t miss a visit to the top of the Goulenez lighthouse, which offers a magnificent view of the island. But make sure to hold on to your hats! The island is flat, so it can get a bit windy up at the top.
5. If you’re in the mood for time travel, head to the Ile aux Moines
Why not take a step back in time, all the way to the Neolithic era! Welcome to Île aux Moines, where you can find remains of dolmens and Celtic constructions more than 5,500 years old!
The island is the largest in the Gulf of Morbihan, as well as one of the most popular in the summer months—and with good reason: the lush vegetation and small, typical beaches attract visitors. It is known as “the pearl of the Gulf” for a reason, after all! It’s best visited off-peak, for a calmer ambiance (as is the case for most of the islands in Brittany)!
Access : Vannes train station, then opposite the bus station, take bus n° 23 towards Larmor Baden; get off at Port-Blanc, take the boat (5mn crossing time).
6. A touch of Ireland on Ushant
Classed as a UNESCO biosphere reserve, Ushant is a perfect choice for nature lovers: it is home to a rich array of flora and fauna and offers a number of different hiking trails. The landscapes are very similar to those of Ireland...so if you’re a fan of walking, this just may be the island of your dreams!
7. For plant-lovers: Bréhat
It’s not known as the “island of flowers” for nothing! Thanks to its microclimate, a whole range of plants are able to grow on Bréhat: the most well known among them is the agapanthus. But you will also find palm trees, fig trees and many other trees you wouldn’t expect to find in Brittany...all in a calm, tranquil setting with an incredible view of the beaches.
8. For a remote, tranquil setting: Hoedic and Houat
Idyllic inlets and turquoise waters are the trademarks of the islands of Hoëdic and Houat. They may be small (Houat is just 5 kilometers long), but they are home to many secrets, from flamboyantly-coloured flowers to picture-perfect beaches…
Is this really Brittany? Motor vehicles are forbidden here (except with special permission) and a peaceful ambiance reigns... There is no doubt about it: this must be paradise!