From Paimpol you can take a 10 minute boat ride to the Ile de Brehat, known as paradise island for good reason. Actually a series of islets set around two small car free islands which at low tide are joined by an 18th century built bridge. Take a 10 minute boat ride from the Pointe de l’Arcouest to discover pink rocks, mimosa, oleander, myrtle and figs growing in the open – it hardly rains here apparently! There are pretty villas, a church and chapel and restaurants joined by a labyrinth of paths.
Where to stay
Ker Moor Hotel in Saint-Quay-Portieux is built around a 19th century house with an astonishing onion-shaped domed roof, it’s a landmark in the area. Right on the GR34, it has a private path down to the sea with unique panoramic views over the Saint Brieuc Bay in Paimpol.
From the hotel it’s a short walk to a sandy beach (there are five in the town) and there’s a popular free to use sea water pool on the beach. There are also two ports - one of which is northern Brittany’s biggest deep-water harbour.
The hotel rooms are light and sunny and the people who work there are lovely – the sort that make your holiday feel really special.
The hotel team know where all the best restaurants are (ask them where to go for oysters) and will make you feel very welcomed.
Hotel Les Agapanthes in the small coastal town of Ploubazanec is run by a Parisian couple who gave up city life, unable to resist the lure of the area where they took their holidays. The little town has a charming port and isn’t remotely touristy. In nearby Pors-Even you’ll find a quaint little village with a cute little seafood restaurant which serves the freshest oysters and best moules frites you’re ever likely to taste.
Tourist Office: www.cotesdarmor.com