Do you like the authenticity of small towns and the peace and quiet of the seaside for your vacations? Do you dream of traveling to an island without breaking the bank? Did you know that France is full of possibilities to satisfy all your desires?
In this article, we take you on a tour of two of Morbihan’s islands! For a guaranteed change of scenery, follow the guide!
Let’s start with Île de Groix. From Lorient, board an Océane boat for a 45-minute crossing to the Île de Groix. Crossings are regular, but we strongly advise you to book tickets in advance, especially in high season. You dock at Port-Tudy, the island’s main port, and can begin exploring!
Small and sparsely populated, Île de Groix is one of the most authentic of the Morbihan islands. Untouched by tourists, it retains an intimate and sincere charm. Its villages and landscapes have remained unspoilt and wild. Its traditions and typical local festivals have been preserved, giving this island way of life all its charm. A 100% immersion in Breton life!
Once you’re here, there’s no time for boredom! Enjoy magnificent beaches like Grands Sables, one of the few convex beaches in Europe. Admire the island’s exceptional biodiversity, with its many species of birds and varied flora, perfect for botany lovers. Take up scuba diving, as there are numerous spots renowned for exploring shipwrecks and marine life. Or visit the museum on the island’s maritime history and heritage, or the iconic Pen-Men lighthouse for panoramic ocean views.
Île de Groix is also the ideal place for hiking enthusiasts, with its many marked trails, including the coastal path offering spectacular views of the sea and cliffs.
Finally, don’t miss the Port-Tudy harbor, where you can sample fresh seafood from the day’s catch.
You can get around on foot or by bike: there are plenty of bike rental companies on the island as soon as you arrive at the port. There’s also a bus service to the island’s main points of interest, making it easy to get around. And in high season, tourist shuttles are also available to connect beaches and tourist sites.
HI Île de Groix youth hostel is the perfect place to stay. This unusual accommodation in the heart of nature is built in a restored former military battery. Sleep in shared rooms or blockhouses, or pitch your tent on the hostel’s campsite, right next to the beach.
On to Belle-Île-en-Mer. This time, take a boat from the port of Quiberon to Belle-Île-en-Mer for a crossing lasting around 45 minutes. The Océane and Navix companies provide regular crossings. It is also advisable to book tickets in advance. The ferry arrives at Belle-Île-en-Mer’s main port: Le Palais. It’s the biggest and most visited island in Morbihan, so let yourself be seduced by its atmosphere.
Once you’re here, there’s plenty to do. Surfing and swimming at Plage de Donnant, or sailing, kayaking, paddling, surfing and other water sports at various spots around the island. And for a taste of history, visit the Vauban citadel and the Sarah Bernhardt fort, as well as the Poulains lighthouse, a renowned site offering a breathtaking view of the coast. Discover the picturesque villages of Le Palais, Locmaria and Sauzon, with their colorful houses and lively harbors. And take advantage of your visit to savor local specialties such as seafood, crêpes and cider in local restaurants and markets. Finally, lovers of wide-open spaces will be delighted to explore the Jardin de La Boulaye, for a relaxing stroll among exotic plants. But also take advantage of the many coastal paths for spectacular walks with views ranging from impressive cliffs to verdant valleys and idyllic beaches.
Throughout the year, the island also offers a rich program of cultural events, concerts and festivals. Like the renowned Belle Île On Air festival.
As on the island of Groix, walking and cycling are the best ways to get around. There are a number of bike rental outlets as soon as you arrive at the port. A bus service covers the island’s main villages and tourist sites, and in high season, tourist shuttles connect the main attractions and beaches.
Stay at the HI Belle-Île-en-Mer youth hostel, a warm and friendly establishment where the team welcomes you with open arms. Set in a green setting, it’s a true paradise for nature lovers.
So, are you ready to set sail for the famous Morbihan islands?
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