From Port-Navalo to La Roche-Bernard: the southern arc of Brittany
In summary
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Sports
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Duration7 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationBrittany / Morbihan
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AgeFrom 18 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions106.79 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Discover the southern arc of Brittany , a wild journey between land and sea linking Port-Navalo to the charming town of La Roche-Bernard . From the very first steps after the port of Crouesty , the coastal path immerses you in a contrasting landscape: vast beaches bordered by dunes give way to the steep cliffs typical of the Morbihan coastline.
This hiking trail, nestled in the heart of unspoiled nature , winds its way between gorse and marram grass, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean . The secluded coves that dot the route are perfect for a contemplative break or a refreshing swim. Under the ever-changing light, you'll progress towards the estuary, eventually reaching the heights overlooking the Vilaine River. The adventure culminates beautifully in La Roche-Bernard , a historic stopover where the charm of ancient stones meets the serenity of the river. An authentic immersion for all lovers of wide-open spaces and Breton heritage .
The highlights
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The discovery of the Rhuys peninsula, the southern part of the Gulf of Morbihan
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The mouth of the Vilaine
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La Roche-Bernard, a small town of character
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Hiking
- Average distance/day: 17 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 109 m
- Average daily descent: 113 m
Management
Program
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Installation in Arzon
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Arrival and check-in at the hotel in Arzon, the second largest marina in France after La Rochelle.
Day 1 -
Arzon - Pointe de Saint-Jacques
- Transportation Car - 00h20 - 15km
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 17 km
- Positive elevation gain 50 m
- Negative elevation 50 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Before reaching the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean, this stage invites you to discover the peaceful paths of the southern coast of the Gulf of Morbihan. A serene hike, between the inland sea and wooded landscapes, where the deep blue of the "little sea" blends with the shades of green of the pines, oaks, beeches and yews, emblematic trees of Armorica.
From Port-Navalo to Pointe Saint-Jacques, the coastal path reveals a beautiful diversity of panoramas. Gradually, the landscapes open up and evolve, giving way to the first sensations of the open sea and the energy of the Atlantic.
Day 2 -
Pointe de Saint-Jacques - Le-Tour-du-Parc
- Transportation Car - 00h20 - 15km
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 22 km
- Positive elevation gain 45 m
- Negative elevation 45 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
The Dukes of Brittany were not mistaken in choosing this holiday destination, as evidenced by the Château de Suscinio, ideally situated between game-rich forest, marshland, and the ocean. The coastal path here follows an elevated educational trail through the marshes, offering a unique immersion into this remarkable ecosystem, where a rich yet fragile amphibious flora and fauna thrive in perfect balance.
The hike then continues towards the Penvins headland, where the white chapel seems to watch over the ocean like a spiritual beacon against the elements. Finally, the route reaches Le Tour-du-Parc, in the heart of the famous oyster route, the end point of this stage combining heritage, unspoiled nature, and Breton traditions.
Day 3 -
Le-Tour-du-Parc - Kervoyal Bay
- Transportation Car - 00h10 - 10km
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 18 km
- Positive elevation gain 10 m
- Negative elevation 20 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Located in the heart of the oyster farms of southern Morbihan, this stop offers an authentic immersion into the world of oyster farming. It's an opportunity to meet passionate producers and discover demanding local expertise, dictated by the rhythm of the sea and dedicated to preserving the highest quality oysters.
After a ferry crossing, head towards the charming port of Pénerf. Its white bell tower and low houses with light-colored facades evoke the bright, almost southern atmosphere of South Brittany. At the port entrance, the Fire Tower, also known as the English Tower, is an iconic landmark: one of the oldest seamarks on the Atlantic coast, once used to guide sailors.
Between maritime heritage, oyster farming landscapes and typical atmosphere, this hike reveals all the authenticity of the Breton coastline.
Day 4 -
Penn Lann Point - Arzal Dam
- Transportation Car - 00h30 - 25km
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 290 m
- Negative elevation 300 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After the coastal landscapes of southern Morbihan, the hiking trail winds into a magnificent river valley along the Vilaine. Verdant hillsides accompany the walker, gently descending towards the river and offering superb panoramic views of this peaceful landscape.
Here, the atmosphere changes: the tranquil boat trip on the Vilaine River complements the serenity of the walk. This calm and restorative stage invites you to slow down and contemplate an environment where nature has shaped the customs and history of the place.
Between river, gentle hills and natural heritage, this hike reveals another facet of Morbihan, more intimate and profoundly soothing.
Day 5 -
Arzal Dam - La Roche-Bernard
- Transportation Car - 00h10 - 10km
- Activity Hiking
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 150 m
- Negative elevation 150 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
From the Arzal dam, the path follows the Vilaine River towards La Roche-Bernard, a charming village ideally perched at the head of the estuary. Its granite "Roche" served as a strategic point for the Vikings, who controlled the river from there, and later, the Dukes of Brittany established their residence at the Rochevilaine estate.
This stage combines historical heritage and river landscapes, offering a glimpse into the strategic importance of the Vilaine throughout the centuries.
Day 6 -
End of stay in La Roche-Bernard
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
End of stay after breakfast.
Day 7
Accommodation
Throughout your stay, you will be accommodated in a 2* or 3* hotel.
Access
Go to the starting point
From the train station to Arzon:
- Bus: Take line 24 (Kicéo) from the Vannes SNCF bus station towards Crouesty. The journey takes approximately 55 minutes (departures approximately every hour).
- Taxi/Private Hire Vehicle: The journey takes approximately 30 to 35 minutes to cover the 35 km. The fare is estimated between €65 and €85 depending on the time of day and the service provider.
Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation in 2* or 3* hotels
- 6 breakfasts and 1 dinner
- The planned transfers of people
- Luggage transfers
- A travel journal for each room
The price does not include
- The round trip from your home
- The J4 crossing from Pen Cadenic to Pénerf (€4)
- Lunches and dinners (except dinner on Day 3)
- The single room supplement
- The single supplement (calculated automatically at the time of booking)
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Possible visits
Options
- Half-board option : CHF214.98 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- pair of sunglasses
- sunscreen
- 1 or 2 one-liter water bottles
- For the picnic: pocket knife, cutlery, cup, airtight plastic container (like Tupperware)
- toiletries
- small personal pharmacy
- toilet paper
- handkerchiefs
- 1 spare pair of eyeglasses (or contact lenses)
- 2 or 3 plastic bags for picnic leftovers
- flashlight or headlamp
- Walking sticks (recommended) but with rubber tips
- 1 pair of binoculars
- camera
- 1 backpack, 35/40 liters, with a flexible frame and equipped with a waist belt
- 1 soft travel bag for the week's belongings (note that it must not exceed 13 kg)
- good hiking shoes
- a pair of light shoes for the evening
Clothing to bring
- sports or hiking socks
- canvas trousers (quick-drying)
- shorts or skirt
- fleece sweater or jacket
- T-shirts or light shirts
- a waterproof jacket (Gore-Tex type)
- rain cape or poncho (which will also protect the backpack)
- a hat and sunglasses
- a hat
- a pair of lightweight gloves and waterproof over-trousers (from autumn to spring)
- a swimsuit and a small bath towel
- comfortable change of clothes for the evening