To discover South Finistère and be as close as possible to nature, there is nothing better than organizing short walks or hikes in the region. Alone or with your family, let yourself get lost on the beaten paths very close to your accommodation at the Fouesnant Nature & Résidence Loisirs Le Kervastrad campsite or take a bike ride to discover the department’s greenways!
We have selected for you 10 walks and hikes to do in South Finistère. Discover them!
From Pointe du Raz to Pointe du Van
In Brittany, more precisely between Cléden-Cap-Sizun and Plogoff, the points of Van and Raz are two ends which close the Baie des Trépassés to the north and south. They both represent rocky promontories that jut out into the sea. Labeled “Grand Site de France”, they offer beautiful landscapes and plenty of hiking trails.
During your walk starting from one of the points and arriving at the other, taking the coastal path for example, you will appreciate the beauty of an almost wild nature, the majesty of the steep cliffs, the clarity of the waters of the beach, but above all the impression of being at the end of the world with the ocean in front and the open moors as far as the eye can see. And this over a distance of approximately 18 km. You can also plan walks around each of the points to discover the surroundings.
Pont-Aven, following in the footsteps of renowned painters
Surrounded by green countryside and bordered by the Aven, in the heart of South Finistère, Pont-Aven is the ideal village for walks. Alone, with family or as a couple, this exceptional place has always pleased with its medieval architecture, its wild nature, its authentic streets, but above all its typically Breton charm. Several painters fell in love with the place and took pleasure in representing it in their paintings. Gauguin is the great witness to this.
This one-hour circuit allows you to explore the “city of painters”, its old mills, its Bois d’Amour and its footbridges on the Xavier Grall promenade which overlook the river and let yourself be seduced by its charm during a stroll! You can take countless tours to discover part or all of the city.
The tip of Trévignon, between sea and land
The tip of Trévignon is a completely exceptional natural site in Trégunc, very popular for its low cliffs, but above all its unmissable beaches. It offers numerous hiking trails.
By following the coastal path from the point, for example, you can enjoy a unique panorama of the ocean, a picturesque port which brings together small fishing boats, as well as a multitude of beaches on the sand bar. Continuing your walk on the other side of the cordon, you will be pleasantly delighted to discover 7 small ponds which are home to lots of animal species. This South Finistère walk extends over a distance of 14 km for a duration of approximately 3 hours of walking through magnificent landscapes.
From Pointe de la Torche to Saint-Jean-Trolimon
The Pointe de la Torche – Saint-Jean-Trolimon circuit is a magnificent route in the southwest of Brittany, in Bigouden country. Long certainly, but very rich in history, natural landscapes, buildings, beaches and culture.
Starting from Pointe de la Torche, an unmissable spot for board sports, follow the coast on the sand bar to Tronoën beach. Leaving the shore, take the road which leads to the Notre-Dame de Tronoën chapel, which is known for its monumental calvary dating from 1450 representing the crucifixion. On site, also discover religious buildings, megalithic monuments, as well as vestiges of the past.
Between Plomeur and Saint-Jean-Trolimon, from March to April, you can admire the beauty of the tulip fields, a magnificent, colorful art painting that feels like you’re in the Netherlands.
The tour of Cap de la Chèvre near Crozon
Embark on a well-signposted 8.5 km South Finistère hike not far from Crozon, in Finistère. The walk, relatively easy, lasts on average 2 hours 30 minutes. It is recommended to do it counterclockwise for the best experience. Be sure to scrupulously follow the markings to guarantee your safety and preserve this enchanting place.
Remember to wear shoes suitable for hiking (at least sneakers) as the trails along this coast can be steep and rocky. Once on the route, breathtaking panoramas, diverse landscapes and a breathtaking view of the bay of Douarnenez await you, for a memorable walk.
Hike from Beg-Meil to Concarneau via the GR34
Discover the wonders of the Forêt-Fouesnant bay over a distance of 23 km, thanks to the famous GR34, the emblematic customs officers’ trail. This trail, which is located right near our campsite, will guide you from the port of Beg-Meil to Concarneau, via Port La Forêt. The route offers you magnificent views of the Glénan Islands, and takes you through charming coves and peaceful corners, ideal for a picnic. The Saint-Laurent and Saint-Jean coves reveal a cemetery of boats, evoking an atmosphere full of mystery and serenity.
For the return trip, enjoy a peaceful boat trip thanks to the Vedettes de l’Odet, which will take you back to the Beg-Meil slipway.
The Pors Poulhan circuit
Embark on a charming 11 km hike in South Finistère around Pors Poulhan. Although it can be done in 3.5 hours, we recommend that you stroll around to savor the panorama and the serenity of the environment.
At the start, a spacious free parking lot awaits you. Don’t miss the emblematic statue of Bigoudène, contemplating the ocean. Its base bears the words: “Ama echu bro Bigouden”, meaning: here the Bigouden Country ends.
Then continue towards the Tréouzien water mill, nestled in the heart of lush greenery. Completely restored, it is furnished with period furniture and opens its doors to visitors in season. Gradually, head towards the historical remains and the archaeological site of Menez Dregan with its explanatory area. A little advice for those planning this family outing: get the games booklet at the Plozevet tourist office (€12). This offers a coastal route enhanced with puzzles and activities related to the sites visited.
Hike from Pointe du Millier
This exceptional hike is one of those places that we would like to keep secret. However, given its reputation as one of the most splendid walks in South Finistère, it is difficult to remain silent.
The starting point is the Pointe du Millier car park. Once you have gone around the lighthouse, which often hosts exhibitions, you will leave behind this breathtaking view towards the Moulin de Keriolet. The latter, open every day from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. then from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., from April to September, offers free immersion into its world. It also offers buckwheat flour for sale, freshly ground on site, while showing you its mechanism.
The hike, lasting approximately 3 hours and stretching over 10 km, continues through the fields where a few dolmens are revealed. You will then join the coastal path leading to Pors Peron beach, with its fine sand and crystal clear waters. However, be careful: swimming there is risky. On a sunny day, the panorama of the Crozon peninsula and Cap de la Chèvre is breathtaking.
The Stangala Gorges
Looking for a getaway surrounded by greenery? Dive into the heart of the Stangala gorges. Ideal for cooling off on hot days, these gorges guide you through a dense forest, along the Odet river, revealing breathtaking panoramas along the way with a drop of up to 80m towards the river. Equip yourself with suitable shoes and bring a snack, especially if you are accompanied by children, because the terrain is sometimes demanding! Here, you will discover an enigmatic Brittany full of mysteries, like the legend of the Griffon du Stangala, this half-lion, half-eagle creature, whose nest, the Griffonier, is said to be located in one of the caves of these steep rocks. .
The walk, starting at the Griffonès car park, will offer you around 3 hours of escape among the trees.
Locronan mountain circuit
Locronan, recognized for its architectural treasures from the Middle Ages, is also famous for its Troménie. This event, much more than a simple religious festival, is a real immersion in a unique hike. Inherited from Celtic traditions and Druidic rites, Troménie is a unique event in Brittany. From the Ar Sonj chapel, treat yourself to a breathtaking view of the bay of Douarnenez.
You can take the Petite Troménie loop, a distance of 8km, available all year round. However, the Grande Troménie, which crosses private land, is only accessible every six years, the next being planned for 2025. A Breton legend says: “He who has not done the Troménie during his lifetime, will travel it after his death, advancing each day to the size of his coffin. ” To meditate !