8 of the most beautiful beaches in Brittany

29.05.2024 - 20:27 / lonelyplanet.com

Daphné is the author of the Brittany chapter for our latest France guidebook. Here she shares the best beaches along its epic coastline.

Brittany doesn’t offer your typical beach experience. It’s not a matter of throwing on a bikini and jumping straight into the sea; you’ll want to pack a fleece, a raincoat, and preferably – if you’re not one for cold water – a wetsuit.

But don’t let that put you off. The region, which alone makes up for a third of France’s coastline, is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches – ranging from sandy and tropical to wild and rocky, through surfer-friendly and ready to party.

Less crowded than most spots in warmer parts of the country, Brittany’s beaches often leave you with the satisfaction of having stumbled upon an unspoiled gem. You'll be surprised to find out how heavenly the seascape can get and the photo opp is well worth sacrificing those perfect tan lines.

These are our favorite beaches in beautiful Brittany.

One to watch from afar

A small cove on the eastern flank of the Crozon peninsula overlooked by pine trees and swathes of heather, Plage de l’Île Vierge was once one of the most coveted spots in the area on a sunny afternoon. And with good reason – facing transparent, turquoise waters, the white, stoney beach, quietly tucked away between the cliffs, can seem other-worldly.

For the past few years, however, access to the beach has been closed for safety reasons. Stick to the warning signs and snap your pic from above, while remaining on the GR34 footpath that circles the peninsula.

Detour: Plage de l’Île Vierge is only one of the many wonders you can expect to see if you hike the GR34 in the Crozon peninsula. Don’t miss the majestic Cap de la Chèvre further down south.

Surfers’ paradise

A two-kilometer (1.2 miles) stretch of sand facing the Atlantic Ocean, Plage de la Torche has become known for its rolling waves that attract surfers from around the world all year long. For those who don’t travel in a cool, board-loaded campervan, the beach is also an inspiring spot for a walk, a lie-down and a swim, followed by a crêpe at one of the cute restaurants facing the sea.

For the sailing enthusiasts

Located on an island literally named after its beauty, Plage des Grands Sables lives up to the reputation of Belle-Île. You'll find it after a 15-minute car drive from the main town, Le Palais, featuring beautiful views of the coast and the neighboring islands of Houat and Hoëdic.

A long stretch of sand protected from the wind and bathed in sunlight throughout the day, it’s the perfect place for a relaxing family day out. The beach’s prime location has also made it a hotspot for water sports. You can rent kayaks, paddles and windsurfing equipment from the