Bréhat Island: Your Complete Guide from Trestel (Ferry, Tips)

Visiting Bréhat Island is an unforgettable experience during your stay at Locations Trestel. Nicknamed the "Island of Flowers," this small, car-free archipelago offers a complete change of scenery just a stone's throw from the Pink Granite Coast. Here is our complete guide to planning your day, from leaving Trévou-Tréguignec to exploring the island's most beautiful trails.

Getting to the Arcouest Pier from Trestel

The departure point for Bréhat is Pointe de l'Arcouest, in the municipality of Ploubazlanec, just past Paimpol. The drive from our holiday homes is simple and quick.

From the apartment, the Mouettes house, or the P'tite Maison, take the D786 towards Lannion, then follow the signs for Paimpol. Once in Paimpol, the direction for "Embarcadère Île de Bréhat" is clearly marked.

Parking at Arcouest requires a fee and is in high demand during the high season (July-August). We advise you to leave early enough to find a spot without stress and walk to the pier at your leisure.

The Ferry Crossing: Schedules and Tips

The main company providing the connection is Vedettes de Bréhat. The crossing is very fast, barely 10 minutes, but it already offers a magnificent first glimpse of the archipelago.

Please note: ferry schedules are not fixed from one day to the next. They are highly dependent on the tides. It is therefore essential to check the schedule calendar on their official website or on documents from the Pink Granite Coast Tourist Office before you leave. Do not rely on a schedule you saw several weeks in advance.

Our tips for the crossing:

• Buy your tickets online in advance, especially in summer. You will avoid a long queue at the ticket office.
• Keep an eye out for the magnificent La Croix lighthouse, which marks the entrance to the Ferlas channel.
• Make a note of the last ferry back to enjoy your day without any unpleasant surprises.

What to Do and See on Bréhat Island?

Once you disembark at Port-Clos on the south island, time seems to stand still. The island is best explored on foot or by bike (many rental shops await you upon arrival).

The South Island: The Charm of the Village

The South Island is the more "inhabited" part. Take the time to stroll through the alleys of "Le Bourg," with its pretty square, a few restaurants, and artisan shops. It is the heart of Bréhat life. You will find the Notre-Dame-de-Bonne-Nouvelle church and, a little further, the Saint-Michel chapel. From its hilltop, it offers a 360° panoramic view of the archipelago.

The North Island: Wild and Spectacular Nature

A bridge, Pont ar Prat, connects the South Island to the wilder, more exposed North Island. It's the perfect playground for hikers. The landscapes are more dramatic, with heathland covered in heather and gorse. Don't miss:

• The Paon Lighthouse: Built on an impressive pink granite chaos, this is the northernmost point. The view is breathtaking.
• Guerzido Beach: The island's largest beach, known for its pebbles and agapanthus flowers in summer.
• The Birlot Tide Mill: A perfectly restored 17th-century mill that demonstrates the ingenuity of the past.

For a picnic, local products are an excellent option to enjoy in this idyllic setting.

The Best Season for a Trip to Bréhat

• Spring (April-June): The ideal season. The island is in full bloom (agapanthus, mimosas, hydrangeas), the light is beautiful, and the tourist crowds are still manageable.
• Summer (July-August): The island is in full swing. The atmosphere is festive, all services are open, but expect many people. It's a different, more lively experience.
• Autumn (September-October): The colors are gorgeous, the light is softer, and tranquility returns. It is the perfect time for photography lovers and those who enjoy quiet walks, similar to those on the GR34 trail near Trestel.

Bréhat is a treasure of Brittany. By following these few tips, your day on the Island of Flowers will remain one of the most beautiful memories of your holidays on the Pink Granite Coast.

Frequently asked questions

Can you take a car to Bréhat Island?

No, the island is entirely pedestrian, with the exception of a few service vehicles and tractors. This is what gives it its unique charm. You will have to leave your car in the car parks at Pointe de l'Arcouest.

How long is the ferry crossing?

The direct crossing between Pointe de l'Arcouest and Port-Clos on Bréhat is very quick, lasting about 10 minutes.

Is it easy to walk around the island?

Yes, the island is a paradise for walkers. The distances are not huge (the island is 3.5 km long). However, the terrain is hilly. Plan to wear good shoes. Renting a bike is an excellent alternative to explore the North Island more easily.

Where can I find the exact ferry schedules?

The schedules change daily depending on the tides. It is essential to check them on the official website of the ferry company (Vedettes de Bréhat) for the day of your visit. Do not rely on schedules you have seen in advance.