This epic adventure lies just off the coast of Morbihan, only a few kilometres south of the gulf. Belle-Île-en-Mer is one of the most beautiful Breton islands and it’s discoveries lie in wait. Voted France’s favourite GR for 2022, the GR 340 takes you on the region’s coastal paths and allows you to make a complete circuit of the island.

The circuit is 75 kilometres (47 mi) long and the easiest way is to camp at the end of each stage. It’s important to check in advance exactly where you can pitch your tent, as some areas are protected. To enjoy the different beaches, creeks and bays along the route but also to take time to visit the different ports and villages, like the one in Sauzon, I’ve divided the route into five stages, each about 15 kilometres (9 mi) long. Of course, it’s possible to do it in four days, but this will leave you less time to discover and enjoy the various sights along the way.

Belle-Île-en-Mer is a key destination for all lovers of wide open spaces, wild and preserved environments, and also of hiking, cycling or water sports. To get there, you have several choices: you can take the ferry from Quiberon, which is the fastest option (45-minute crossing), or from Port Navalo, La Turballe and Le Croisic.

I was able to explore the island in September 2020 during a stopover on a sailboat. I was part of a wonderful team that organised conferences on sustainable development. The locals were so welcoming and I have a superb memory of my time there. Now I have only one desire, to return and help others discover this small corner of paradise. I am sure that Belle-Île will touch you with the beauty of its landscapes, its markets and its cake stands, its lively evenings in the pubs, and the welcome of its inhabitants.

This adventure starts at Le Palais, the ferry port, and heads first towards the northeastern tip of the island. Le Palais is a charming little port, but also the most important one on the island and it’s very lively in the evenings during the summer. The end of the route is the Pointe des Poulains, the northwestern tip of the island, before returning to the beautiful little fishing port of Sauzon and completing your adventure by arriving back at Le Palais.

I recommend camping along the route but you can just as easily sleep in a gîte or in a bed and breakfast, as each stage ends near one or more accommodation options. This itinerary is best done in summer to take full advantage of the gentle sea spray and idyllic setting of the beaches.

The return to the mainland is done by ferry. The most adventurous can even try to return by boat hitchhiking. This practice is quite common on the coast, so give it a try!

More information on ferry lines: belle-ile.com/organiser/comment-venir-belle-ile/liaisons-maritimes