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Belle Île en Mer

Photo of Belle Île en Mer

About Belle Île en Mer

The largest of Brittany’s islands, Belle-Île-en-Mer is a gorgeous destination, with two vastly different coastlines. One, the nearside, is calm and sandy, dotted with sheltered ports, whilst the ocean side — dubbed the ‘Côte Sauvage’ is rocky and dramatic. Both offer ample opportunities for adventures as a family, couple or group of friends on holiday. With accommodation options ranging from simple family-friendly hotels to indulgent clifftop idylls, there’s something on the island for everyone, As most of the best places to stay on Belle-Île-en-Mer face the sea, you can expect spectacular views, too!

You’ll find shops, eateries and galleries clustered in Le Palais, most visitors’ first stop on the island, opposite Quiberon, or in charming Sauzon, to the north. For an insight into the region’s past, look to the Musée Citadelle Vauban, which also boasts beautiful views. Other noteworthy natural sights are the Aiguilles de Port-Coton, which have inspired countless artists and photographers, and the impressive Grotte de l'Apothicairerie.

Spend your days sailing, swimming, sunbathing or fishing at the coast, or head inland for cycling, hiking, golf and horse riding. Les Grand Sables, on the nearside, is ideal for relaxed beach days and water sports. Summer travellers can catch music concerts or attend the annual opera festival. Windswept clifftop walks are glorious throughout much of the year — some starting from the best places to stay on Belle-Île-en-Mer. Charming, laid-back and very striking, this is a brilliant choice for a Breton escape.

The Best Places to Stay on Belle-Île-en-Mer

For Families

  • La Desirade is a fantastic 32-room countryside hotel, with a pool, spa and lovely gardens. Pick this place for an active family holiday (book a suite with bunk beds for the little ones), and spend your days at the beach, the tree adventure park, horse riding or sailing as a family.
  • Hotel Le Cardinal offers 55 simple, stylish rooms with private balconies and sea views. Flexible accommodation options with space for up to six guests work well for families, who will also appreciate the swimming pool and nearby beach. There are also two good onsite restaurants. Well-priced.
  • Hotel Le Grand Large has a great selection of family-friendly rooms, as well as kids' menus and a swimming pool, games room and impressive array of activities. Set on the island's wild coast, this is a spectacular spot for walks, horse riding, sailing and surfing. Expect gourmet fare, too.

For Luxury with a View

  • Castel Clara overlooks Goulphar Bay from its striking clifftop position. Chic rooms and suites are clad in a soothing blue and cream palette, and promise a very special stay for families or couples. Hire bicycles, take a dip in the pool or feast on seafood at Le Café Clara and traditional French cuisine at Le Bleu Manière Verte. Heaven for foodies and lovers of luxury.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Nantes Atlantique Airport or to Rennes Bretagne Airport, and journey by road to Quiberon. You can then catch a ferry from Quiberon to Le Palais, one of the island's main hubs.
  • Brittany is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the spring or summer for the best weather, with temperatures peaking at around 23°C in July and August — this is the busiest time of year. For a quieter trip, consider visiting in April or September, although the weather will be cooler.

STILL NOT SURE?

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Monthly Weather in Belle Île en Mer

Best Hotels in Belle Île en Mer

  • La Desirade Bangor, Brittany 32 rooms from CA$143

    Local exploring  -  An extraordinary amount of activities nearby, from diving, cookery courses, sea fishing and the Vauban Citadel
    Families  -  Really something for everyone, with a tree adventure park for smaller guests, horse riding and coastal walks
    Fishing  -  Sea fishing trips available with Arnaud de Wildenberg
    Sights nearby  -  The Great Lighthouse and Airfield of Belle Ile
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking
    Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel, Sawdays

    A fantastic hotel set within its own small village. Contemporary rooms have seaside colouring and great bathrooms. Outdoor pool, gardens and a spa for relaxing. Superb French cuisine, a short walk to the beaches, and peaceful surroundings. Ideal for families and avid seamen. See More

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  • Hotel Le Cardinal, Brittany Sauzon Belle-Ile En Mer, Brittany 55 rooms from CA$132

    Families
    Restaurant  -  Café Bleu for lunch and The Cardinal restaurant for dinner
    Views  -  Stunning views of Belle Ile's wild coast
    Swimming Pool  -  Large Outdoor Pool
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViews

    A contemporary family friendly beach holiday hotel on Belle Ile. Simple but stylish rooms with private balconies and lovely views out to sea. Swimming pool, two restaurants and a beach nearby. All the ingredients for a relaxing beach holiday. See More

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  • Le Grand Large, Brittany Belle Île en Mer 34 rooms from CA$151

    Beach Life  -  Situated on the largest of the Breton islands, boasting numerous pretty beaches, a rugged coastline and coastal trails
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the fort in the Pointe des Poulains in the north or the island's villages of Le Palais and Sauzon are also worth a trip
    Great walks  -  Find lots of great walking trails, and the Côte Sauvage in the south west of the island is particularly popular with walkers
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    A seaside hotel on a charmingly rugged Breton island with stunning sea views. Decor is understated, neat and smart; airy rooms are simple and functional and offer fabulous views of the sea or garden. Featuring two restaurants and a generous outdoor pool. A lovely and relaxed island base! See More

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  • Castel Clara Belle Île en Mer from CA$284

    Fishing  -  Find a quiet spot along the coast and spend an afternoon fishing
    Great walks  -  Wander along the coast at sunset and take in the gorgeous views
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Relais & Chateaux

    Castel Clara sits along the coast of Belle Île en Mer, overlooking Goulphar Bay. Offers chic accommodation featuring a refined décor coupled with light hues mimicking the coastal surroundings. Enjoy traditional French cuisine at the Le Bleu Maniere Verte and seafood at Le Café Clara! A superb stay. See More

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