On Brittany's northern coastline, the Hauts de Port-Blanc campsite is the ideal base camp for visiting the top destinations on the Côtes d'Armor. There's no shortage of places of interest, but you still have to know how to find them.
Here are 9 wonders of the Côtes-d'Armor not to be missed this summer!
1. The Pink Granite Coast and Ploumanac'h
In northern Brittany, from Trégastel to the Ploumanac'h lighthouse in Perros-Guirec, the Pink Granite Coast is a must-see tourist attraction in the Côtes-d'Armor. It owes its name to its enormous pink rocks, sculpted by the wind and the sea. This particular hue is due to the presence of iron oxide in the granite. A natural curiosity that attracts thousands of visitors, hikers and photographers every year.
The GR34, the famous ‘sentier des Douaniers' (customs officers' path) that runs around the coast of Brittany, skirts the Pink Granite Coast and leads to the Mean Ruz lighthouse, the beach and the oratory of Saint Guirec (set in the sand) before reaching the port of Ploumanac'h.
2. The island of Bréhat, ‘the island of flowers
Just 10 minutes by boat from Paimpol, the island of Bréhat is one of the jewels of the Côtes-d'Armor. It is nicknamed ‘the island of flowers' for the extraordinary richness of its flora. Its ease of access and size (3 km2, just over 400 inhabitants year-round) make it an unmissable tourist stop-off during a camping holiday in the Côtes-d'Armor. The island is entirely pedestrianised. A coastal path runs around Bréhat for around 34 km. Other, shorter routes can be completed in two hours or less. Attractions include the church of Notre-Dame de Bonne-Nouvelle in the town centre, the Verreries de Bréhat glassworks in the old citadel, the Corderie harbour and the Pointe du Paon lighthouse.
The Vedettes de Bréhat shipping company offers regular crossings from the Arcouest pier, north of Paimpol (10-minute crossing).
3. The 7 islands archipelago: sea excursion and stopover on Île aux Moines
Off the coast of Perros-Guirec, the Sept-Îles archipelago is made up of a group of granite islets: Rouzic, Malban, Bono, l'île aux Moines, l'île Plate, Les Costans and Les Cerfs. It is one of three bird sanctuaries in the Côtes-d'Armor. Classified as a nature reserve since 1976, the archipelago is home to more than 20,000 pairs of seabirds, as well as France's only colony of gannets. A group of grey seals has also taken up residence here.
From Perros-Guirec (Trestraou), the Vedettes des 7 Îles organise guided excursions to the archipelago. You can also stop off at Ile aux Moines, the only island open to the public, famous for its lighthouse and ancient Vauban fort.
4. The port of Paimpol
The port of Paimpol, nicknamed the ‘Port of the Icelanders', is a place steeped in history. Situated right in the heart of the town, this port of heritage interest preserves the memory of the era of the Great Fishery to Newfoundland and Iceland.
Take a stroll along the quays, where fishing boats and pleasure yachts mingle, then immerse yourself in the history of cod fishing at the Musée de la mer. A stone's throw from the pontoons, the old streets of Paimpol invite you to take a stroll. Attractive boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and café terraces keep visitors coming back for longer. Find out more: see our article on ‘Visiting Paimpol'.
5. Tréguier, Brittany's ‘Petite Cité de Caractère
Make the most of your camping holiday in the Côtes-d'Armor to visit Tréguier, the former capital of the Trégor region. The Petite Cité de Caractère® is an emblematic stop-off point on the Vélomaritime and Douaniers trails, as well as the Tro Breizh, a sacred 1,500 km pilgrimage across Brittany. Saint-Tugdual cathedral, dedicated to the monk who founded Tréguier, is one of Brittany's most beautiful religious buildings. Its Gothic cloister, listed as one of the most beautiful in France, is well worth a visit. Find out more: read our guide to ‘Visiting Téguier'.
6. The Cap d'Erquy - Cap Fréhel Grand Site de France
Between Erquy and Plévenon, the two Côtes-d'Armor capes, Fréhel and Erquy, offer a breathtaking natural spectacle. The cliffs, almost 70 metres high and covered in heather and moorland, plunge into a turquoise sea. The GR34 crosses these two exceptional sites. Along the way, you can discover remarkable sites such as the old pink sandstone quarries, the Château de Bienassis, the dune spit at Sables-d'Or-les-Pins and the islet of Saint-Michel and its chapel, accessible at low tide. In summer, guided tours reveal the secrets of the local fauna, flora and history.
Access: free parking is available in the market town of Plévenon (4.5 km from Cap Fréhel) or on the road (C8) between Cap Fréhel and Fort La Latte (July and August only).
7. Fort La Latte
Not far from Cap Fréhel, in the commune of Plévenon, Fort La Latte is one of Brittany's most famous fortified castles. Perched on a rocky spur facing England, this castle was built in the 14th century under the name Château de la Roche Goyon. Its ramparts, keep and drawbridge have survived the centuries.
This ancient medieval fortress, which has been the setting for several films, is open to visitors. You can discover the large dwelling, the cistern, the chapel, the cannonball oven, the keep and the crossbowmen's room. The fort also features a medieval garden. The view of Cap Fréhel, the Emerald Coast and the Bay of Saint-Malo from the sentry walk is magnificent. Website: www.lefortlalatte.com.
8. Pontrieux, Petite Cité de Caractère
Looking for a picturesque getaway in Brittany? Discover Pontrieux in the Côtes-d'Armor, a Petite Cité de Caractère® nicknamed the Venice of Brittany.
Pontrieux is a hidden gem offering visitors a blend of authentic charm and fascinating history. Stroll along the picturesque banks of the River Trieux and admire the magnificent half-timbered houses that line its cobbled streets. Take an electric boat and discover the wash-houses of Pontrieux by day or night. There are over fifty of them, real architectural gems dating from the 16th century.
Families can enjoy boat trips on the river and guided tours to learn more about the town's history. Enjoy the peace and quiet of Pontrieux, a haven of peace that will appeal to travellers looking for a change of scenery and authenticity. Don't miss the chance to discover this charming town on your next trip to Brittany!
9. The Valley of the Saints, Easter Island in Brittany
The Vallée des Saints, nestling in Carnoët (Côtes-d'Armor), not far from Carhaix-Plouguer, is a unique site. Visitors can discover a living cultural heritage, combining history and Breton legends.
This artistic project brings together more than 200 monumental statues of Breton saints, sculpted from local granite. Some are up to 7 metres high! These emblematic figures include Saint Guénolé, Saint Anne and Saint Yves (Erwan in Breton), considered to be the patron saint of Brittany. The valley also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
Visits are free and open all year round. Guided tours are available in summer. Free parking is available on site. Access: Quénéquillec, 22160 Carnoët. For more information, visit www.lavalleedessaints.com.
