Beaches of Brittany

Introduction

Found in the north-western corner of France, the Brittany peninsula and its many islands account for a third of the country’s coastline. It’s 2,700km of rugged coast is packed with quiet coves and scenic beauty, including beach resorts, hidden gems, and eye-catching rock formations.

The peninsula’s south coast tops 2,000 hours of sun each year, with Brittany’s maritime climate echoing that found in Cornwall. Its golden sands and warm summer temperatures put it at the top of many holiday wish lists, while its ease of access only enhances its popularity. Ferries serve the Brittany ports of St Malo and Roscoff from the south of England, while flights into the airports at Nantes, Dinard, Quimper and Brest operate from locations across Britain.

The beaches of Brittany are renowned for their clear turquoise waters and white sands, with many found close to picturesque stone towns and villages. Here’s the pick of the best beaches in Brittany, from across the north, west and south of the peninsula.

North Brittany Beaches

The port city of Saint Malo is home to several beaches, while vast granite walls surround its Old Town. Bon-Secours beach can be found in the shadows of the ramparts, and is admired thanks to its seawater pool, which provides swimming even at low tide. Or head to the 3km stretch of sand known at Grande Plage du Sillion, the region’s longest beach connecting the city neighbourhoods of Parame and Intra-Muros.

Alternatively, you could wander in the footsteps of Picasso by taking in the stripy beach tents and sands of Plage de l’Ecluse, in Dinard. A popular resort since the 19th century, there’s plenty of activities to keep those of all ages occupied.

For some of Brittany’s most striking shores, a visit to the Pink Granite Coast is in order. Named after the pinkish rock formations and sands found all along this stretch of coast, aim for Plage Saint-Guirec to really admire its beauty. Shallow waters make it popular with families, while the ruins of the 12th-century Chateau de Costaeres can be viewed out at sea.

West Coast Brittany Beaches

Brittany’s western coastline feels the brunt of the Atlantic Ocean, but it has created striking rock formations and many havens for all kinds of water sports. Thanks to high winds coming off the ocean, Plage de Sainte-Evette is the place to go for sailing, surf and stand-up paddleboarding, although it’s great for swimming too.

Another stretch of wild coastline exists on the Crozon Peninsula. Plage de l’Aber is a stretch of white sands backed by dunes, while you’ll only be able to access Plage de I’ile Vierge at low tide or via its own coastal path. It’s worth the walk though, especially if you’re keen to spot dolphins and grey seals in the aqua waters, or hunt for marine creatures in its caves and rockpools.

Beaches of Brittany's South Coast

The south coast of Brittany is dotted with beach resorts, including the renowned La Baule-Escoublac, where you’ll find one of Europe’s longest beaches. Situated to the west of Saint Nazaire and the mouth of the Loire River, 9km of beautiful white sands stretch from Le Pouliguen to Pornichet, with casinos, restaurants and bars set just back from the beach.

Carnac, known for its standing stones dating back to 4,000 BC, is home to some spectacular beaches too. The largest, Grande Plage de Carnac, has a Blue Flag to showcase its quality and stretches for 2km alongside the town. Don’t miss the chance to sample fresh oysters here too, as they’re a regional delicacy.

Brittany’s islands house an abundance of beautiful scenery and white sands too, including on the island of Belle-Ile. The golden sands of Plage de l’Herlin can be found at the base of three valleys, with the surrounding rolling hills providing a number of secluded spots.

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