Pink Granite CoastBretagne Sauvageour nature guide to discovering it!
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Top spots to explore wild Brittany on the Pink Granite Coast

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Looking for a holiday in the great outdoors?
Here in North Brittany, wide open spaces are not just a backdrop, but an open-air playground. Cliffs sculpted by the winds, wooded valleys full of mystery, islands accessible at low tide or paths running alongside the water… the Pink Granite Coast boasts a diversity of landscapes that is rare, even unique in France.
Hiking, kayaking, contemplation or simply breathing in the sea air: these destinations have one thing in common. They invite you to slow down, observe and experience nature from the inside out.

Published on 21 August 2023

Behind its pretty beaches, Brittany also knows how to be wild! Yes, on land and at sea, the region is a reflection of its inhabitants, with no shortage of character. But don’t worry, the Côte de Granit Rose and the Côtes d’Armor don’t bite! What’s more, they offer you real moments of escape and exceptional landscapes. So if you’d like to get closer to this wild Brittany and even try to tame it during your holiday, we’ve put together 7 unique places in north-west France where you can observe it. Are you ready to go? Then follow the guide.

01 – Le Sillon de Talbert

A path on the open sea

Walking on water? What an idea… And yet, it’s possible in Brittany! On the pebbles and sand of the Sillon de Talbert, you’ll find a passageway between land and sea. The legends of Brittany abound about this passage, sometimes created by Merlin, sometimes by the fairy Morgane, who fell in love with King Arthur. Whoever created it, it’s an impressive sight!

As you make your way along, the landscape takes on the air of a mirage, and the inhabitants of the Sillon, terns, plovers and larks, come to welcome you in their own way. Sheltered on this wild strip of land, they live quietly as a family far from the beaten track of the Pink Granite Coast, between blue thistle and sea cabbage. Who knows, maybe they’ll pose for a souvenir photo?

These open landscapes are also an invitation to a different way of travelling: taking your time, observing and listening. With each season, the light transforms the landforms and renews the experience. The same place is never experienced in the same way twice.

📌 Please note: Due to the presence of a breach in the Sillon de Talbert, 500 m from its start, it is advisable to explore the site two hours after high tide and return to the coast at low tide. The precise times of passage of the breach can be consulted on the Town Hall website, at the tourist office and on display at the Maison du Sillon.

02 – Plougrescant

A walk from the chasm to the castle

Like Brittany and its people, the coastline of Plougrescant seems as wild as it is elusive. But once tamed, the granite heaps characteristic of the Pink Granite Coast and the steep cliffs of the Gouffre de Castel Meur open onto a small stone cottage nestling between the rocks. And yes, in Brittany, the wilderness is open to the most adventurous…

On the footpaths along the bay, follow the path leading from the Gouffre de Plougrescant to the Pointe du Château. At the end of this royal road winding its way through moorland, rocks and wild flowers, one of Brittany’s most beautiful landscapes is revealed. Sitting facing the waters of the English Channel, enjoy the view of the Petite Île, the Île d’Er, the tip of the Sillon de Talbert and the sea. If you’ve planned a snack, this is the perfect time to enjoy it against the backdrop!

📌 Please note: were you thinking of taking advantage of your visit to Plougrescant to go to the beach? Be aware that there’s not much room to put your towel down here! We recommend you head for Buguélés beach or Port-Blanc instead.

03 – Traouïero Valley

And its fairytale world

Forget fairytale books, Brittany is the author of your dreams and your imagination! A few steps away from the beaches and coastline, the scenery turns green and you enter a whole new world. Beneath the oak and chestnut trees of the Traouïero valley, a wild and legendary Brittany opens its doors to you. Follow the course of the river Kerougant and set off for a walk through the forests of the Pink Granite Coast. After a few metres, you’re likely to sense a presence in the woods: many korrigans live hidden away in the heart of this verdant valley. We invite the whole family to try and find them!

We’ll give you a few clues… Along the way, you’ll be able to see their home: a cave carved out of a granite chaos. Who would have thought that a walk in the forest could be so mysterious?

Between the granite chaos and the shady undergrowth, the feeling of immersion is immediate. The coolness of the valley contrasts with the nearby sea air, offering an almost timeless interlude.

📌 Please note: everything here is done on foot, on paths that are sometimes narrow and damp. Good shoes are recommended. To take full advantage of the wooded atmosphere and preserve the tranquillity of the area, opt for a walk early in the morning or at the end of the day.

04 – Goas Lagorn Valley

Water, earth and stone

Are you looking for a new idea for a walk after discovering the green and wild side of Brittany? Are you torn between the coast and the forest? Then head for the Goas Lagorn valley, one of the most beautiful natural sites in Trégor on the Pink Granite Coast. Here, the land, sea and stone work in harmony to create an atypical setting that’s 100% wilderness.

To get there, simply follow the GR34. This walk in the heart of wild Brittany begins in a green area teeming with life. After crossing a few meadows, a path leads you along streams. As you slowly approach the beach, on the sand or on top of the cliffs, a breathtaking view of the sea awaits you. Continue your walk and at the bend in the path, the stones of the Saint Thurien* chapel join the picture. Fire, water, earth, “Tann, dour, douar”. Here, in the hollow of this valley, are the symbolic elements of Breton culture and the treasures of wild Brittany.

*Also sometimes called the chapel of Saint Dourien or Saint Thurian, the interior of this chapel features whitewashed walls and painted niches containing statues. Keep your eyes peeled: a scallop shell is carved into the threshold of the west portal.

05 – The Léguer

Your guide to Brittany

Whether by sea or river, on the coast or inland, in Brittany, and more specifically on the Pink Granite Coast, water is everywhere. A good idea? Make a change from iodised bathing and follow the course of the Léguer, one of Brittany’s wild rivers. Along this small Breton river, you can swim, fish, canoe or simply relax in the shade of the trees.

Start out on the Pink Granite Coast. Little by little, the salty air gives way to the scent of woods and valleys. As you head inland, you’ll suddenly see salmon and otters swimming alongside you.
As you continue your river journey, you’ll pass through forests, moors, unspoilt nature reserves and meadows… all the way to the Monts d’Arrée. To discover Brittany and its wildest landscapes, nothing could be easier: let the Léguer be your guide!

It’s a different way of experiencing Brittany, one that’s gentler, more inward-looking and closer to nature.

📌 A fishing paradise: did you know? Classified as a 1st category migratory fish river, the Léguer is one of the most renowned salmonid rivers in France! So don’t forget to bring along your fishing rod for your next holiday in wild Brittany.

06 – The moulin neuf pond

An animal paradise

If you’re looking for a peaceful, green natural area, follow us as we take you to the paradise of otters and wild horses: the Etang du Moulin neuf! Far from the waves and the hustle and bustle of the beaches, in this setting of wild Brittany, peace reigns.

On a family holiday, take the children to learn about the endemic species that inhabit the pond. Take part in an investigation by assisting Inspector Fri Furch (curious in Breton) on the trail of a criminal along the banks of the pond. In the midst of this wilderness, play detective and discover the green side of the Pink Granite Coast!

This natural setting is also an ideal breathing space for fans of gentle activities. A walk, observation or simple contemplation are enough to create a bond. You come here to immerse yourself, not to consume the landscape.

📌 A surprising pond: where Brittany meets the South of France! Don’t be surprised to see Camargue horses, present all year round, accompanying you as you stroll around the pond.

07 – Milliau Island

An iodised hike

Head for Trébeurden on the Pink Granite Coast, and more specifically for Ile Milliau. This nugget of Brittany is home to a thousand treasures jealously guarded by the Conservatoire du Littoral. To get there, you don’t need a pier: just get the timetable for the walk and a good pair of trainers! A hundred metres or so separate the island from the mainland, and in the middle, a rocky chaos to climb and then a short climb through undergrowth will take you to the heart of the island. You might even come across a few rabbits on the moor.
The scenery here is breathtaking! The paths wind between the pink rocks, the gorse and above all the view of the sea all around, inviting the whole family to contemplate. A dolmen, a vestige of its Neolithic past, leads the way to the top of the island, where the 360° panorama is breathtaking. After this 3km walk, it’s time to cross back over to Le Castel and Père Trébeurden, who watches over the resort. And yes, the walk is already over… Can’t wait for the next one!

📌 Please note: Île Milliau is only accessible at low tide. Remember to check the timetable and plan your return. No services on site: bring your own water and picnic, and leave without a trace.

After the effort… the comfort!

In Brittany, we love walking, swimming and making an effort, but what we love most of all is comfort! After exploring the region’s wild landscapes, you’re invited to share a convivial moment with the locals! All you have to do is get your feet under the table in a local bistro and learn a few words of our regional language. Demat (Hello), Mat ar jeu ? (How are you?), Ur bannac’h ‘po ? (Do you have a drink?) Yec’hed mat ! (Here’s to you!)… You’ll see it’s not that complicated and you’ll learn quickly! In a bar, restaurant, microbrewery, distillery or fest-noz, end your discovery of wild Brittany with a moment as warm as Breizh!

The wild nature of the Pink Granite Coast

Frequently asked questions
  • Where is the Pink Granite Coast located?

    The Côte de Granit Rose is located in northern Brittany, in the Côtes-d’Armor department, between Perros-Guirec and Trébeurden, via Trégastel.

  • Where to put your towel down on the wild beaches of the Pink Granite Coast?

    The Pink Granite Coast is full of unspoilt beaches, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet in the heart of nature. Among the most popular are Goas Lagorn beach in Lannion, discreet and lined with rocks, Toul Drez beach on the Presqu’île Renote in Trégastel for its more unspoilt out-of-season feel, and the small coves around Île Grande, perfect for secluding yourself by the sea.

  • Which peninsula to visit on the Pink Granite Coast?

    The most emblematic is undoubtedly the Renote peninsula in Trégastel. Accessible on foot, it offers a superb looping route between the surprisingly shaped pink granite rocks, the small wild coves and the unobstructed sea views.

  • Where can you cycle in the heart of nature on the Pink Granite Coast?

    The Pink Granite Coast is a great place to cycle, with its quiet lanes, greenways and coastal routes. The Vélomaritime allows you to cycle along the coast between Perros-Guirec, Trégastel, Trébeurden and Lannion. The greenway between Lannion and Louannec, built on a former railway line, is ideal for a peaceful outing on two wheels in the heart of nature.

  • Which river or pond to fish on the Pink Granite Coast?

    The wild river that invites you to go fly fishing is the Léguer, which crosses the Pink Granite Coast from south to north. One of the best-known fishing lakes on the Pink Granite Coast is the Poulloguer lake. Easily accessible and surrounded by nature, it is popular for recreational fishing, particularly for roach, carp or pike (depending on the season and regulations).

  • Which forest is best for a family walk?

    For a walk in the heart of nature, the Beffou forest is a sure bet. Located south of Lannion, it is the largest forest in the Côtes-d’Armor. With its many shady paths between beech trees, oak trees and streams, it’s ideal for a walk or cycle ride.

  • Do I need to book sea trips in advance?

    To make sure you get the most out of your boat trip, we advise you to book in advance, especially in high season (July-August), as places sell out fast. You can book easily via the official website of the Pink Granite Coast Tourist Office, which centralises the different companies and timetables.

  • Which ports do the sea trips leave from?

    Sea cruises on the Pink Granite Coast start from a number of emblematic ports, depending on your chosen destination: you can embark from Perros-Guirec (Trestraou beach), Trégastel, Trébeurden, Lézardrieux, Carantec, Plougasnou or the Arcouest pier to reach the island of Bréhat. Each port offers a charming setting and services to get your trip off to a good start. Don’t hesitate to check the exact port of departure when making your reservation.

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