A Day out in the village of Le Conquet
During the lockdown, there was a distinct envision of the perfect holiday that I was craving.
Because we were limited to just one walk a day, we couldn’t see our family or friends unless on a screen, we couldn’t pop out for a quick coffee and we definitely couldn’t go on holiday. So during this time, I had a very specific place in my mind of where I wanted to be.
The fantasy included a small village, on the coastline, quaint buildings covered in flowers and of course, white sandy beaches.
While on our trip to Brittany we visited Le Conquet. This commune turned out to be the exact destination to fulfil this imaginary oasis I had in my mind. Ticking every box along the way during the days we spent here.
So below we’ve come up with a wonderful itinerary of how to spend 1 day here in the scenic village of Le Conquet.
Want to extend your trip? Read our article “8 WONDERFUL THINGS TO DO ON THE BRITTANY COASTLINE” for more travel inspiration for things to do in Brittany
LE CONQUET
Le Conquet is the westernmost town of mainland France. Known as an important crab fishing port, the harbour sets the backdrop for a picturesque visit.
During our time here, we had what we call the perfect day. The town of Le Conquet has it all. The scenic harbour, white Caribbean-like beaches, a quaint town, a landmark lighthouse and the best patisserie we’ve ever eaten.
THE MORNING
THE LIGHTHOUSE
Start your morning with a walk to the impressive Phare de Kermorvan (“Phare” meaning lighthouse in French). From the lighthouse, you can walk around the peninsula to reach a secluded cove and historic ruins. This circular walk hugs the coastline and is the perfect way to spend your morning.
Kermorvan lighthouse is part of the lighthouse route in Brittany. Read our article “EXPLORING THE FAMOUS LIGHTHOUSE ROUTE IN BRITTANY” for more information about the route the other ligthhhouses included!
The lighthouse can be found on a rocky spur at the end of the Kermorvan peninsula. The lighthouse, which was lit in 1849 is now entirely automated and still warns ships away from the hazardous rocky coast. The building is unusually square-shaped and is painted white on only the two sides that face the sea, allowing navigators to locate themselves during the day.
The Beach
From the lighthouse follow the coastline till you reach a bay filled with perfect white sand. Keep an eye out for inquisitive seals bobbing along the shoreline as you walk along!
With the sun shining, the turquoise water is translucent which makes it hard to believe you’re not in the Caribbean!
The bay along this walk, to our knowledge has no name. We actually stumbled upon it accidentally while walking back from the lighthouse. So I’ve attached a satellite photo pointing to where it is.
After the circular walk, you can also visit Plage des Blancs Sablons which is a two-kilometre long unspoiled beach perfect for surfing and body boarding.
Fort de l’Ilette & the coastal path
Following the walk from the small beach, you’ll find Fort de l’Ilette. Fort de l'Îlette de Kermorvan (or Kermorvan Island Fort in English) was built in 1847 and is accessible to explore at low tide.
While on our trip around the Brittany coast we’d come across many historical ruins and monuments. We kept thinking that if we were in England this would be protected, have long queues and a pricey entrance fee filled with tourists. But this wasn’t the case while in Brittany. No overpriced cafe, no children’s play park and no arrows on which way to walk. Simply you, the sea breeze and the history itself. Bliss.
THE AFTERNOON
town & bakery
After your coastal escapades, head to the village for lunch. Here you’ll find a huddle of traditional sandstone houses adorned with blue wooden shutters and flowers. These narrow streets have a selection of art galleries, creperies, restaurants and gift shops.
One of our favourite food stops on our week in Brittany was a visit to Bakery Frédéric Bian. A definite must-see (or in this case, must-taste) while in Le Conquet. Filled with locals buying their daily bread and pastries, we followed the smell of freshly baked goods and bought a selection of cakes, croissants and baguettes for our lunch. The food was outstanding and we couldn’t recommend a visit here enough!
Take your delicious baked goods and find a bench overlooking the harbour. Watch the small multicoloured boats bob along the water and swing in the wind.
BIRDS & BEACHES
Walk along the narrowing harbour inland till it forms the ria. When the tide is out it becomes a paradise for shorebirds like the graceful egret and oystercatcher.
Or from the harbour visit Plage de Portez, Plage du Bilou and Plage de Porz Liogan. All three of these white sandy beaches are within a 20-minute walk from the port so you can hop from one to another.
The Iroise Natural Marine Park
Iroise, known as the jewel of France's west coast is a Natural Marine Park covering over 3,500km², this area includes the water surrounding Le Conquet. Boasting a wealth of natural and cultural riches, the park was the first marine protected area in France.
The park has the role of raising awareness, protecting the marine wildlife and environment as well as educating visitors on the understanding of the marine while creating sustainably developed sea-dependent activities.
One-quarter of the countries sea mammals are to be found in the Iroise waters. So while on the sandy beaches of Le Croquet keep an eye out for some of the wildlife the park protects. This includes a colony of grey seals, dolphins and porpoises!
A Michelin star meal
While on your trip to Le Conquet why not indulge in a Michelin star meal?
Just a short stroll from the port is the exquisite Restaurant La Corniche. The eatery is part of the Sainte Barbe Hotel which sits right at the front of Le Conquet overlooking the port and seafront directly opposite where the sun sets into the ocean.
With the chef having close ties to the local fishermen, farmers and artisans they offer superb, fresh seafood and quality seasonal produce from the region.
We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Le Conquet in Brittany! If you have any suggestions or have any questions please let us know in the comments below!
Our trip to Le Conquet was in partnership with the Brittany Tourism Board, where we went on assignment to explore Brittany’s coastline, capturing the most beautiful spots and destinations along the way
