Brittany is renowned for its charming coastal fishing villages dotted along its rugged coastline washed by the Atlantic Ocean. However, beyond the popular tourist destinations in Brittany, like Saint-Malo and Douarnenez, there are many hidden gems offering a glimpse into traditional Breton culture that often go unnoticed.
Île de Batz
One of the best-kept secrets of northern Brittany is the island village of Île de Batz. Situated just off the coast of Roscoff, this small island is only accessible by ferry and has managed to retain an authentic atmosphere far removed from mass tourism. Its winding narrow streets are lined with weathered stone houses featuring colorful window shutters, gardens overflowing with flowers, and colorful fishing boats pulled up on the beach. Make sure not to miss the picturesque harbor area, as well as take a walk along the island’s coastal footpath for sweeping views of the turquoise waters. For a memorable experience, enjoy a fresh seafood meal at one of the tiny restaurant shacks directly on the sand overlooking the ocean. The tranquil atmosphere on Île de Batz offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Chapelle Sainte-Anne La Palud
Venture inland a short distance from the coast and you’ll come across hidden gems like the Chapelle Sainte-Anne La Palud nestled in the verdant countryside near Douarnenez. This 12th-century Romanesque chapel perched on a hilltop is renowned for its well-preserved carved wooden altarpiece and frescoes. Make sure to explore the catacombs containing tombs and ossuary located underground. The spiritual atmosphere inside the chapel provides a step back in time. Be sure to admire the panoramic views stretching for miles across the emerald patchwork fields and rocky coastline from the hilltop grounds. A short walk away is the Moulin de la Rive village, where you can try crepes and cider at a local creperie.
Presqu’île de Crozon
Jutting out into the Bay of Brest is the Presqu’île de Crozon, a scenic peninsula stretching for miles along Brittany’s rugged Atlantic coast. Dotted along the coast of the peninsula are idyllic fishing villages full of charm waiting to be explored, such as Morgat and Camaret-sur-Mer. In Morgat, stroll along the picture-perfect harbor lined with colorful cottages and fishing boats. Then, make your way to Camaret-sur-Mer, a spectacularly positioned village built on a rocky promontory surrounded on three sides by the ocean. Nearby is the Camaret Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the peninsula. Hike sections of the coastal footpath wrapping around Crozon for sweeping seascapes. Visit on a weekend to experience authentic Breton maritime culture and sample local specialties at the harbor-side markets.
Roscanvel
Nestled between the seaside resort towns of Douarnenez and Audierne lies the charming fishing village of Roscanvel. Wander its narrow winding streets dotted with traditional Breton houses featuring stone walls, timber frames, and slate roofs. Admire the colorful fishing boats sheltering in the small yacht-filled harbor. Don’t miss the lovely church of Saint-Kernic with its carved wooden pews and stations of cross decoration. For atmospheric vibes, have crêpes and cider at a creperie on the harborfront. Not to be missed is the Sentier des Douaniers coastal footpath wrapping around the scenic harbor through fields of wildflowers with scenic views of the Baie d’Audierne. An idyllic spot to experience the relaxed rhythms of traditional Breton village life away from the tourist crowds.
Île de Sein
Situated 14 kilometers offshore from the Presqu’île de Crozon is the remote island village of Île de Sein, the westernmost inhabited spot in mainland France. Only accessible via boat, this small island outpost feels like a step back in time. Wander the stone alleyways dotted with traditional fishermen’s cottages and admire the dramatic views of the wildly crashing waves against the island’s rocky coastline. Don’t miss learning about the challenging way of life for the island’s lighthouse keepers and fishermen at the Musée des Phares et des Balises. The spiritual atmosphere makes it feel like you’ve journeyed to the end of the Earth. With no cars, tourism, or modern development, Île de Sein offers an unspoiled glimpse into simpler island life.
Douarnenez
Situated on a tranquil inlet along Brittany’s northern coast is the charming port town of Douarnenez, renowned for its colorful sardine fishing industry and arts culture. Wander the old town’s narrow cobblestone streets, passing colorful houses featuring slate tiles and wooden balconies and overlooking the bustling harbor below, which is dotted with fishing boats and yachts. Don’t miss visiting the Port-Musée exploring the history of sardine fishing and boat building. For panoramic views of the town and Baie de Douarnenez, climb the Lanvéoc Lighthouse, which is a short distance away. After browsing the art galleries selling local paintings capturing the town’s maritime heritage, relax over a crêpe and cider at a waterside restaurant. An eclectic and picturesque coastal town capturing the area’s traditional fishing culture.
Le Pouldu
Located along Brittany’s south coast near Pont-Aven lies the charming fishing village of Le Pouldu. It first came to prominence in the late 19th century when artists like Gauguin and Sérusier were attracted by the scenic light. Many buildings still standing today date back to this bohemian artistic period. Don’t miss taking a stroll along the coastal footpath for panoramic views of the Baie de Douarnenez. Visit in summer to experience the town, which comes alive with painted shutters, flower-filled gardens, and a lively atmosphere. While away in the afternoon, relax over a meal of fresh seafood crepes at one of the restaurant terraces overlooking colorful fishing boats in the harbor below. A lovely village frozen in time, retaining its bohemian artistic charm.
Ploumanac’h
Nestled within the cliffs of the Côte de Granit Rose near Perros-Guirec lies the idyllic pink granite cove beach of Ploumanac’h, protected by high cliffs. Admire the pink granite rock formations, caves, and arches carved by the crashing waves below. Follow the coastal path with breathtaking ocean vistas along the rugged coastline for different panoramas at each turn. Don’t miss checking out the fabled Table des Marchands rock formation, which is accessible by foot at low tide. For spectacular cliff-top perspectives, hike the picturesque Trepied Point footpath overlooking the bay. A magical natural coastal scenery with an enchanting atmosphere ideal for escaping the stresses of modern life.
Trebeurden
Situated along Brittany’s north coast is the photogenic seaside village of Trebeurden, which is a striking location above wild tidal pools facing the open sea. Admire the pretty, colorful houses with wooden galleries facing its small harbor area. Not to be missed are the scenic viewpoints along the coast path above sheer cliffs plunging into rocky beaches below, pounded by the ocean waves. For panoramic perspectives of the cliff-lined coastline and islands offshore, climb the Lanveg Tower located in the countryside on the outskirts of town. Spend an afternoon exploring the craggy shoreline perfect for tidepooling, before relaxing with fresh seafood crepes overlooking the dramatic scenery. An idyllic seaside village surrounded by dramatic coastal scenery.
Batz-sur-Mer
Set on a peninsula at the mouth of the Loire River along Brittany’s southern coast lies the scenic fishing village of Batz-sur-Mer. Follow a walking tour of the village to learn about its maritime history, starting at the 16th-century castle. Continuing, admire the colorful houses along the harborside featuring wooden galleries laden with flowers. Visit in late June to experience the traditional Festival des Filets Bleus celebrating local fishing culture. Must-sees include the wisteria-covered Sainte-Anne Chapel and the tidal island of Le Croisic, which is accessible by foot at low tide. Cap off the afternoon relaxing with a fresh seafood crepe, watching colorful fishing boats sail into the harbor at day’s end. A charming village steeped in traditional seafaring culture.
