Ouessant (Ushant)

• Ferry~1 h 15 from Le Conquet
• Size~8 km long
• Best forLighthouses, cycling
• TimeFull day+

Ouessant lies about 20 km off the Breton coast and marks the entrance to the English Channel. It's a low, windswept island of stone houses, tiny fields and dramatic rocks, guarded by some of the most famous lighthouses in the world.

Getting there

Ferries run from Le Conquet (about 1 hour 15) and from Brest, calling at Molène. There's also a short flight from Brest. Book ahead in summer.

What to see

• The Créac'h lighthouse, one of the most powerful in Europe, with the Musée des Phares et Balises (lighthouse museum) at its foot.
• The Pointe de Pern, the westernmost point, facing the Nividic lighthouse.
• The ecomuseum at Niou Uhella, showing traditional island life.
• Views of the legendary Jument lighthouse offshore.

Tips

Rent a bike at the port in Lampaul or at the ferry landing; the island is about 8 km long. Weather can delay ferries, so travel insurance with disruption cover is useful.

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