Buffeted on all sides by the Atlantic winds, the small town of Quiberon, on the peninsula of the same name, offers you a glimpse of the Brittany of yesteryear and of today.
People come to Quiberon for its glorious landscapes: a breathtaking Côte Sauvage (unspoilt coastline) can be found to the west of the 8.5-mile peninsula. Start your walk at Château Turpault, a stunning mediaeval-style building, which was actually built in the early 20th century. Plenty of people have been fooled by its crenellations and turrets!
The coastal trail, which can be travelled by bicycle or on foot, is fully open to the elements. The sea breeze, waves, cliffs and seagulls make for a fantastic spectacle. Along the coastline, mysterious megalithic sites bear witness to Brittany's Celtic past. Be sure to visit at dusk, and feel the magic...
The coast overlooks Quiberon Bay, a quiet spot especially renowned for its lovely beaches. Quiberon itself has no less than 10 beaches, to the south of the peninsula, and they offer everything holidaymakers could want: the Grande Plage, with its 19th century villas, still exudes the charm of the Belle Époque. Its fine sandy beaches will delight even the fussiest of beachgoers!
Not far from the Grande Plage, Port Maria is a great spot to walk to, with its white lighthouse that stands out against the blue sky. Until the mid-20th century, this port was the largest sardine port in France: to learn about this part of its history, head for the Belle-Îloise, a traditional canning factory open to the public.
The summer is the best time to visit Quiberon, but it's also the most popular time with tourists, so remember to book your accommodation well in advance for the best choice.
While Quiberon peninsula offers plenty to keep you busy on your holiday, it's also a good starting point to explore other, equally charming islands off the coast, such as Belle-Île, Houat and Hoédic. Happy holidays!
