- DepartmentMorbihan
- Ferry~50 min from Quiberon
- Best forCliffs, cycling, coves
- Stay2–4 nights
Belle-Île is the largest of the Breton islands, about 17 km long, with a coastline of cliffs and coves on the ocean side and sheltered beaches facing the mainland. Its four communes are Le Palais, Sauzon, Bangor and Locmaria.
Le Palais
The main port is guarded by a massive star-shaped citadel reworked by Vauban, now a museum and hotel. Ferries arrive here from Quiberon.
Sauzon
The island's prettiest harbour, with pastel houses, a little lighthouse and seafood restaurants on the quay. From here, walk to the Pointe des Poulains, where the actress Sarah Bernhardt bought an old fort in the 1890s, and to the Grotte de l'Apothicairerie.
The Côte Sauvage
The Aiguilles de Port-Coton, needle-like rocks battered by the waves, were painted many times by Claude Monet in 1886. Nearby, the Grand Phare lighthouse can be climbed in season.
Getting around
- Ferries run year-round from Quiberon; book a car space well ahead in summer, or bring a bike instead.
- Bikes, e-bikes, scooters and small cars can be rented in Le Palais.
- The coastal path around the island is about 80 km, a classic multi-day walk.
Stay in Belle-Île-en-Mer
Compare prices and free-cancellation rates.
Top sights near Belle-Île-en-Mer
Carnac Standing Stones
Around 3,000 Neolithic menhirs in rows across the countryside, now a UNESCO site.
Read guide →
Gulf of Morbihan Islands
Boat trips around an inland sea, with stops on the Île aux Moines and Île d'Arz.
Read guide →Header photo: Photo: Gilles Messian from Paris, France, CC BY 2.0
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