Île de Bréhat
Known as the 'flower island', Bréhat charms with its exceptionally mild climate, pink granite rocks and near-Mediterranean vegetation.
The flower island on the pink granite coast
Île de Bréhat — Enez Vriad in Breton — is an archipelago of two main islands linked by a bridge built in the 18th century, lying off the Pointe de l'Arcouest in Côtes-d'Armor. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Bréhat enjoys an exceptional microclimate that earned it the nickname "flower island": mimosas bloom as early as January, agapanthus and hydrangeas line the paths in summer, and prickly pears grow outdoors.
Two islands, two atmospheres
The southern island, the more populated of the two, offers an unexpectedly Mediterranean landscape: lush gardens, lanes bordered by flower-covered stone walls, pink granite houses with blue shutters. The northern island, wilder in character, reveals heather moorlands, rocks sculpted by erosion and a rugged coastline beaten by waves. The contrast between these two faces is what makes Bréhat so charming.
A pink granite heritage
Bréhat's pink granite, the same as that of the famous coast at Ploumanac'h, gives the island its warm, luminous tones. The chapels, fountains and wayside crosses scattered across the island attest to a rich history. The Chapelle Saint-Michel, perched on the highest point (26 metres), offers a remarkable panorama over the archipelago and its reefs. The Birlot tidal mill, now restored, is one of the last of its kind still in operation.
A car-free archipelago
Bréhat is strictly car-free. The island is explored on foot, by bicycle or by tractor (for residents). This absence of motorised traffic contributes to the island's unique charm and preserves its peaceful atmosphere. The walk around the island takes about four hours and passes the Phare du Paon in the north, the Croix de Maudez and the Grève du Guerzido.
Practical information
Vedettes de Bréhat operate the crossing from the Pointe de l'Arcouest, near Paimpol (10 minutes). Departures are frequent in season and more spread out in winter. The island is very busy in summer: visiting in May-June or September offers the mildness without the crowds. A few restaurants and guesthouses welcome visitors wishing to extend their experience beyond a day trip.
Ferry to Île de Bréhat: schedules and fares
To reach Île de Bréhat, one ferry route is available departing from Pointe de l'Arcouest. The boat crossing takes between 10 and 10 minutes depending on the departure port and company.
Ferry fares to Île de Bréhat range from €11 to €11 per adult (round trip), depending on the season and company.
Ferry companies to Île de Bréhat
| Company | Departure port | Duration | Frequency | Vehicle | Bicycle | Rates |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vedettes de Bréhat | Pointe de l'Arcouest | 10 min | Departures every 15-30 min in summer, every 1h in winter | — | — | 11–11 € Adult Round trip |