Brittany’s best beaches

After soaking up the seaside charm of Saint-Malo, brace yourself for a striking change of scenery with two hidden coves reachable only on foot. Nestled at the base of Cap d’Erquy – part of the spectacular Cap d’Erquy-Cap Fréhel headlands, honoured as a national “Grand Site” for its breathtaking natural beauty – these spots are among northern Brittany’s most iconic. Here, pink sandstone cliffs, coastal heathlands and rolling dunes tower above shimmering turquoise waters. A marked trail loops around the headland in about 90 minutes, offering fantastic views. Down below lie Lourtuais –  a favorite hangout for naturists – and Portuais, reached by long staircases. A rugged rock wall divides these two coves, set against a backdrop of pine forests and vibrant mats of gorse and heather.

In Côtes-d’Armor, the Pink Granite Coast (Côte de Granit Rose) is one of France’s most impressive coastlines. To experience its magic, head to the Presqu’île de Renote. Connected to Trégastel by a narrow sandy strip, this peninsula is dotted with smooth, rounded stones sculpted by erosion, framing crystal-clear coves and shimmering tidal pools. Cars aren’t allowed here, making for a peaceful, scenic walk of about an hour round trip. Highlights include Toul Drez Beach, the easiest one to reach, located near the Gouffre, a deep stone chasm you can explore at low tide. On the quieter south side, Baie de Sainte-Anne offers a string of tiny, tucked-away beaches sheltered from the wind, perfect for a tranquil escape.

In the heart of the Armorique Regional Natural Park, the Presqu’île de Crozon, a cross-shaped peninsula hemmed by the Iroise Sea, boasts some of Finistère’s most breathtaking coastlines. Take Goulien beach, sheltered by Pointe de Dinan, a crescent of golden sand where nature reigns supreme as far as the eye can see. You’ll likely encounter sea swimmers, surfers, and hikers catching their breath before setting back off on the iconic GR 34 footpath. A little further on, in the village of Camaret, Anse de Pen-Hat is a wild beach cradled beneath rugged cliffs, just a stone’s throw from the dramatic Pointe de Pen-Hir headland. Swimming isn’t allowed here, nor at La Palue just south down the coast, but these two swell-swept beaches are a magnet for photographers drawn to their wild, untamed beauty.

Down south in Finistère, the Névez coast reveals a whole other side of Brittany’s beaches – pristine coves you can only reach by following the coastal path. Between Raguénez and Pouldohan, just a few miles from the fishing port of Concarneau, the GR 34 hiking path passes by twenty stunning beaches, with Anse de Rospico stealing the spotlight. Tucked between two pine-dotted rocky hills, it’s a family favourite thanks to its soft white sand, clear waters and shallow tidal pools – perfect for kids to splash around when the tide is out. No roads lead directly to the coast here, so park your car and take the only trail cutting through the untouched coastal greenery. Your reward? Complete peace and quiet after a short, refreshing stroll!

Just a 45-minute boat ride from Lorient, Île de Groix, boasts one of nature’s rare geological wonders: the Grands Sables, one Europe’s only convex beaches. This golden stretch of sand juts out into the sea and migrates along the coastline, shifted by ocean winds and tides – so much so that its shape changes dramatically from year to year. On the island’s east coast, calm, crystal-clear waters create perfect conditions for sea swimming. Afterward, take the coastal path through the François Le Bail nature reserve, famous for its flocks of seabirds and the deep red garnets in the sand, which cast a stunning purple shimmer visible right from the shore.

Brittany’s islands harbour some incredible beaches, with Belle-Île, just a 45-minute ferry ride from Quiberon, standing out as a prime example. Off Brittany’s Côte Sauvage, or “wild coast”, Port Kérel is the ultimate hidden cove. Picture golden sands, a southwest-facing shore sheltered from the winds and crystal-clear waters that rank among the warmest on the island. Tucked away from the four main villages, with no shops or neighbours in sight, you’ll often find this spot all to yourself. To reach it, follow a winding path through heathland and ferns starting from the tiny village of Kerguelen, just south of Bangor. Visit at dawn or dusk for a swim, and this untouched sanctuary feels like your very own secret slice of paradise.