The largest island in Brittany
20 km long - 9 km wide - area 85 km².
Belle île en mer's Island
Of volcanic origin, it is 17 km long (from Pointe des Poulains to Locmaria) and 9 km wide (from Palais to Port Coton), i.e. 85 km².
By way of comparison, it is four times the size of Ouessant or almost identical in area to the island of Ré (84 m²). The island is made up of numerous valleys which make it a destination for experienced cyclists! It is essential to take the time to discover the variety of its landscapes, from north to south and from east to west. As well as savouring its unique atmosphere. If you want to stay on Belle Ile, you must take the time to do so, ideally between 5 and 10 nights out of season. Travellers fall under the spell of its beauty, its "micro-climate" and its gentle way of life! Total disconnection guaranteed!
The Island is full of sites to discover !
The island consists of 150 villages spread over four communes: Le Palais, Locmaria, Bangor and Sauzon.
There is a variety of landscapes between the wild and steep west side and the east coast, with its ports and long white sandy beaches.
Belle île is also an ideal place for walking and cycling, here to find out more about the island's walking and cycling routes.Located 15km from Quiberon (45 mn by classic" boatand 1h30 by sail) - 5,000 inhabitants all year round and 35,000 in July and August - 82 km of coastal paths - 80 km of signposted cycle routes - 58 beaches - A hospital, fire brigade, SNSM, gendarmerie, a "REX" cinema, an aerodrome...
A privileged spot for hiking in the respect of a preserved nature
The GR340 is France's "favourite" route for 2022 and attracts many visitors.
Thanks to its coastline, which has been preserved from urbanisation, it is possible to walk all the way round without taking your eyes off the ocean. Hikers coming to the island should be well equipped, physically prepared and respectful of a fragile environment. Tips are compulsory on walking sticks.
Locmaria : the most beautiful beaches are there !
This is the commune where the houses of Kerdavid'île are located. Founded in 1070, it was initially mainly devoted to agriculture.
The south of the island is spared from the influx of tourists who arrive en masse on the Pointe des Poulains, Sauzon, Port Coton and Le Palais. Moreover, the most beautiful beaches are to be found there! Locmaria also offers spectacular coastal scenery, with the highest cliffs on the island: at the Pointe du Skeul. Its atypical church dates back to the origins of the commune. In the village of Locmaria, there are several shops: a bakery, a supermarket, a bar-tobacco-grocery, a bicycle rental company, a creperie, an oyster producer and a restaurant. The market takes place every Wednesday. Shopping and bike delivery are possible directly at the rental.
The south of the island is spared from the influx of tourists who arrive en masse on the Pointe des Poulains, Sauzon, Port Coton and Le Palais.
Moreover, the most beautiful beaches are to be found there! Locmaria also offers spectacular coastal scenery , with the highest cliffs on the island: at the Pointe du Skeul.
Its atypical church dates back to the origins of the commune.
In the village of Locmaria, there are several shops: a bakery, a supermarket, a bar-tobacco-grocery, a bicycle rental company, a creperie, an oyster producer and a restaurant. The market takes place every Wednesday. Shopping and bike delivery are possible directly at the rental.
Would you like to get a better idea of the environment of the houses ? Follow the guide !
Le Palais : the Island's capital where you arrive and leave
It is the main port of arrival from the mainland, and there is continuous activity, especially at each arrival and departure of a boat.
There are many car, bicycle and scooter rental companies.
On the outskirts, there are two supermarkets: Casino and Super U. In the city centre, a Spar and a Carrefour City are very practical for Sunday shopping !
The imposing Citadelle Vauban, visible from the moment you arrive at the port with its fortified enclosure, is undergoing renovation work. At midday and in the evening you have a choice of restaurants.
It's great to have a morning tea or coffee on the harbour with the ship's departure and arrival as a spectacle. The many shops selling clothes, decorations, accessories and books are usually on lunch break until 3pm.
Fish and seafood market every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and every day in July and August.
Sauzon : the picturesque port, Sarah Bernard and Les Poulains !
Sauzon is famous for its harbour with its colourful houses which are a delight for painters and photographers !
The harbour is still home to a few fishing boats, and has a growing marina activity. Very pleasant to stroll around and always good addresses of restaurants: small bistros, gastro or crêperie.
In the afternoon for a family snack or in the evening for a romantic moment. Not to be missed: the Pointe des Poulains and the Sarah Bernard fort.
For golf enthusiasts, they will enjoy an exceptional view, but beware of lost balls!
Bangor : the wild coast
The territory to the west, with its jagged coastline and impressive cliffs, such as the famous Aiguilles de Port Coton and the Anse de Goulphar.
A place that Claude Monet particularly appreciated, he was as if hypnotized by the place. The beach of Donnant is also very well known for surfing amateurs and professionals (2 schools offer group or individual lessons).
The great lighthouse of Goulphar can be visited in season and is one of the most powerful in Europe.
Local shops in the village, close to the lighthouse the restaurant "Le Kervi" ideal for families or gourmet restaurants and creperies.
Want to be pampered? Try the treatments at the thalasso "Castel Clara . Or discover the world of donkeys, so sweet so cute withElsa from "Belle île en âne