Day 1 : Tourist road
Follow the coastal road through the pretty villages of Lanildut, Melon, Porsporder and Argenton perhaps stopping for a coffee or an aperitif in one of the many roadside bars and cafés. Watch the surfers ride the waves at Penfoul beach, maybe you've time to dip your toes in the sea or enjoy a picnic on the headland. Then follow the Route Touristique along the rocky coastal road, stopping to admire the tiny Chapelle de Saint Samson and marvel at how the fishermen negotiate this stretch of water. Trémazon castle is situated in the coastal hamlet of Kersaint, spend some time on this sandy beach or explore the coastal path. The tour ends in Portsall, home of the giant anchor salvaged from the Amoco Cadiz which split in two after running aground on Portsall rocks during the early 70's. Here you can enjoy a crepe or two at La Chaumine or visit its sister restaurant, Les Litterines, for some delicious locally caught sea food.
Day 2 - Les Abers
From Portsall follow the coastal road towards Aber Benoit. The road follows the meandering path of the Abers offering some fabulous views on route. As well as wide sandy beaches at St Pabu, take time to visit the old ferry crossing. Not so many years ago the only way across the aber was by rowing boat, today you'll have to follow the road in-land to Llanillis before you can cross Aber Benoit. From Llanillis follow the road out to Landeda and spend some time exploring this picturesque peninsula.
Cross Aber W'rach on the route touristique for great views up and down the aber, before heading to the Vierge Island Lighthouse in Plouguerneau. Why not call into the Hoalen beach shop, home of the region's fashionable surfwear? Situated in a restored boat house right on the shore front you can browse the ranges of clothes or enjoy a drink on the terrace. Feeling energetic? Join one of the beach gym work outs or sign up for a surfing lesson! The tour finishes further along the coast in Kerlouan with a visit to the lost Fisherman's Village.
Day 3 - Brest
Start the day at the largest aquarium in Europe, Océanopolis, which is located on the sea-front in Brest. Stop for lunch in one of the many restaurants which line the port and then walk up the hill to the Chateau de Brest, the oldest monument in the city spanning over 1700 years of history. A visit to the Tour de Tanguy is included in the entrance ticket for the chateau and if you've time and energy left why not finish the day exploring the shops and pavements bar of this famous naval city..
Day 4 - Coastal Attractions
Explore the Isle de Segal at Lampaul Ploudalmezeau and then enjoy the breath-taking views from the Corsen Pointe in Plouarzel. If you've time take the coastal path towards the pretty beach at Kerhorneau perfect for a snooze in the sun. Le Conquet would make an ideal stopping place for lunch and afterwards take the coastal road towards Pointe St Matthieu and its famous lighthouse. The historical site of the Berthaume Fortress in Plougonvelin is just around the corner and for the energetic visitors the opportunity to take the "zip-wire" over to the island on which the fortress sits!
Day 5 - Islands
Visit the islands of Ouessant, Molène and Sein all of which are part of the Park Règional d'Armorique. The islands were designated a Man and Biosphere reserve in 1988 and Ouessant is the westernmost point of France. Daily ferries from Le Conquet, Lanildut and Brest..
Day 6 - Mythical Megaliths
Starting with the Kerloads Menhir in Plouarzel this is the largest standing menhir in Europe, if not the world, standing 10 metres tall. The Kergadiou menhir on the outskirts of Plourin is the second largest in Brittany standing at 8 metres. The road from Plourin leads on to the pretty coastal village of Brélès which has an interesting church and the fantastic restuarant La Belle Air. A visit to Chateau de Kergroadés is highly recommended, throughout the summer the chateau hosts a number of daily events - check the noticeboard for details.Starting with the Kerloads Menhir in Plouarzel this is the largest standing menhir in Europe, if not the world, standing 10 metres tall. The Kergadiou menhir on the outskirts of Plourin is the second largest in Brittany standing at 8 metres. The road from Plourin leads on to the pretty coastal village of Brélès which has an interesting church and the fantastic restaurant La Belle Air. A visit to Chateau de Kergroadés is highly recommended, throughout the summer the chateau hosts a number of daily events - check the noticeboard for details.
Day 7 - Crozen Peninsula
It's worth stopping on route at Plougastel Doulas, famous for both the introduction of strawberries to mainland Europe and its imposing Calvary. There is a circular route, clearly signed around the Crozen Peninsula but do stop and take the small detour to climb Menez Hom (at the devil's feet) the view from the top makes the climb worthwhile!
7 ideas of day out
Authentik Cottage - The Brittany Experience
Penn al Lann Garo, 29830 Plourin, Finistère, France
Tel: 00 33 2 98 04 40 49
Mobile: 00 33 6 20 30 70 36
Email: gites.authentik@gmail.com