Top 10 Ports to Visit on the Emerald Coast: 2023 Guide

Top 10 ports to visit on the Emerald Coast!

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Top 10 des ports à visiter sur la Côte d'Émeraude : Guide 2023

Top 10 Ports to Visit on the Emerald Coast

The Port of Saint-Malo

With its impressive fortifications, charming cobbled streets and rich maritime history, Saint-Malo is a must-see for any visitor to the Emerald Coast.

Port of Saint Malo seen from the ramparts

History of the port of Saint-Malo

The port of Saint-Malo is a jewel of Brittany, with a rich and varied history. Founded in the 6th century by monks, the port has always played a central role in the development of the city. Over the centuries, Saint-Malo has become a prosperous city thanks to trade and fishing.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, Saint-Malo was known as the "City of Corsairs" because of its fleet of privateer ships - private vessels authorized by the King of France to attack enemy merchant ships during war. Famous privateers such as Robert Surcouf hailed from Saint-Malo.

During World War II, the city was almost completely destroyed by bombing, but it was carefully rebuilt in the original style after the war. Today, the fortifications, cobbled streets and historic buildings give Saint-Malo a unique atmosphere and are reminders of its maritime past.

Why visit the port of Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo is a jewel of Brittany, combining history, natural beauty and vibrant culture. The port is the heart of the city, offering magnificent views of the sea and maritime activity. As you walk along the ramparts, you can enjoy views of the port, beaches, islands and maritime forts.

The old town, Intra-Muros, is full of cobbled streets, unique shops and restaurants serving excellent Breton cuisine, including fresh seafood. Local museums, such as the Musée d'Histoire de la Ville et du Pays Malouin, offer fascinating insights into the city's history.

Finally, Saint-Malo is also an excellent base for exploring other parts of the Emerald Coast, such as the charming port of Cancale and the magnificent Mont Saint-Michel.

Some tips for visiting the port of Saint-Malo

  • Visit the port at the end of the day, when the sun begins to set. The view is magnificent!
  • Stroll along the ramparts to admire the view of the port, beaches, islands and maritime forts.
  • Visit the old town, Intra-Muros, full of cobbled streets, unique shops and restaurants serving excellent Breton cuisine.
  • Visit local museums to learn more about the city's history.

How to get to the port of Saint-Malo

  • Saint-Malo is easily accessible by car, train and ferry.
  • By car: Saint-Malo is located on the N137, approximately 70 km from Rennes. There are plenty of car parks in and around the city.
  • By train: Saint-Malo has an SNCF train station which offers regular services from Paris (around 2.5 hours by TGV), Rennes and other cities in Brittany.
  • By ferry: Brittany Ferries operate regular ferry services between St Malo and Portsmouth in the UK. There are also ferry services to the Channel Islands.
  • Once in Saint-Malo, the port is easily accessible on foot from the old town and the train station

Did you know?

  1. Saint-Malo was built on a rock and was originally an island at high tide. This is why the city is surrounded by massive ramparts - to protect the city from sea attacks and storms.
  2. Privateers were not pirates in the usual sense, but rather private sailors licensed to attack enemy ships in times of war. The system was actually a way for governments to weaken their enemies without having to use their own ships or sailors.
  3. It may be interesting to note that Saint-Malo is the birthplace of the French writer François-René de Chateaubriand, one of the forerunners of the Romantic movement. His birthplace, the "Maison natale de Chateaubriand", can still be visited today.

Port of Dinard

Its Belle Époque architecture, picturesque beaches and views of Saint-Malo make it a very pleasant destination.

Port of Dinard

History of the port of Dinard

Dinard, located just across from Saint-Malo on the right bank of the Rance, has an equally fascinating history. Dinard began as a small fishing village, but in the 19th century, with the arrival of the railway, the town became a popular seaside resort for the British and French bourgeoisie.

At the turn of the 20th century, Dinard was one of the most prestigious seaside resorts in Europe, attracting illustrious visitors including artists, writers and royalty. Many of these visitors built magnificent villas in the Belle Époque architectural style, many of which remain today and give Dinard its distinctive character.

Why visit the port of Dinard

Dinard is a charming and elegant town, with much to offer visitors. Dinard's beaches, with their fine sand and magnificent sea views, are among the finest in Brittany. The coastal path around the town offers spectacular views of the sea and the nearby town of Saint-Malo.

The marina is a lively place, with boats coming and going, and café terraces where you can sit and watch the world go by. The town also has a number of beautiful public gardens, such as the Parc de Port Breton, which has animals, children's playgrounds and a castle.

Finally, the city is famous for its Belle Époque villas, many of which can be seen on a walk around the city. The Palais des Arts et du Festival is also a must-visit, offering a variety of shows, exhibitions and festivals throughout the year.

Some tips for visiting Dinard

  • Visit the marina to admire the boats and café terraces.
  • Take a walk along the coastal path to enjoy views of the sea and the nearby town of Saint-Malo.
  • Visit Port Breton Park to see the animals, children's games and the castle.
  • Admire the Belle Époque villas on a stroll around the city.
  • Attend a show, exhibition or festival at the Palais des Arts et du Festival.

How to get to the port of Dinard

  • Dinard is easily accessible by car, bus and boat.
  • By car: Dinard is about 10 minutes from Saint-Malo via the Rance dam or about 20 minutes via the coastal road. There are several car parks in the town.
  • By bus: There are regular bus services between Saint-Malo and Dinard, operated by the Illenoo transport network.
  • By boat: During the summer there is a regular water taxi service between Saint-Malo and Dinard, offering a picturesque way to get into the town.
  • Once in Dinard, the port is a short walk from the town centre.

Did you know?

  1. Dinard was originally a humble fishing village before being transformed into a luxurious seaside resort by the British aristocracy in the 19th century.
  2. Dinard is famous for its Belle Époque architecture, with the largest number of listed villas in Brittany.
  3. Every year, the city hosts the British Film Festival. Thanks to this festival, Dinard has been nicknamed "Cannes of the North".

Port of Cancale

Known as the oyster capital of Brittany, it is the ideal place for seafood lovers and offers magnificent views of the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel.

Port of Cancale

History of the port of Cancale

Located east of Saint-Malo, Cancale is a small fishing port with a long maritime history. The port is best known for its oysters, a tradition that dates back to Roman times. The nutrient-rich waters of the Baie du Mont Saint-Michel are ideal for oyster farming, and Cancale has become the main oyster-producing region in Brittany.

In the 18th century, King Louis XV declared Cancale oysters to be the best in France and served them at his table at Versailles. Today, Cancale is still synonymous with high-quality seafood, and the harbour is lined with stalls selling freshly caught oysters.

Why visit the port of Cancale

Visiting Cancale means discovering a little corner of Brittany that has managed to preserve its charm and authenticity. The port, called "La Houle", is still an active fishing port, and you can see the boats returning with their catch of the day.

Tasting fresh oysters on the quayside is a must-do experience for all visitors. Many restaurants on the waterfront also offer a variety of seafood and traditional Breton dishes.

As well as its culinary delights, Cancale offers spectacular views over the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel, and the coastal path offers a lovely walk with views of the sea and surrounding countryside. The Pointe du Grouin, just north of the town, is a wonderful spot for birdwatching and nature watching.

Some tips for visiting Cancale

  • Visit the fishing port to admire the boats and stands selling oysters.
  • Take a walk along the coastal path to enjoy views of the sea and the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel.
  • Visit Pointe du Grouin for bird and nature watching.
  • Enjoy fresh oysters on the quay, or at one of the many restaurants on the waterfront.

How to access the port of Cancale

  • Cancale is easily accessible by car and bus.
  • By car: Cancale is about 15 minutes from Saint-Malo via the D201. There is free parking at the port, although this can be busy during the summer months.
  • By bus: The Illenoo transport network offers a regular service between Saint-Malo and Cancale.
  • Once in Cancale, the port is in the centre of town and can be easily explored on foot.

Did you know?

  1. Cancale is often called the "Oyster Capital" of Brittany, and is famous for its flat and hollow oysters which are harvested by hand in the bay of Mont Saint-Michel.
  2. Oyster farming in Cancale has a thousand-year history. The Romans, 2000 years ago, were already fond of Cancale oysters.
  3. Every year, Cancale hosts the Oyster Festival, where you can participate in oyster opening competitions, taste delicious fresh oysters, and more.
  4. In addition to its famous port and its oysters, Cancale also offers a breathtaking view of the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Port of Saint-Cast-le-Guildo

This charming port offers a beautiful beach and outdoor activities, perfect for a family day out.

Port of Saint Cast le Guildo

History of the port of Saint-Cast-le-Guildo

Saint-Cast-le-Guildo, located west of Saint-Malo, is a picturesque seaside resort with a long maritime tradition. Historically, the port was a fishing and trading center, but in the 19th century, with the arrival of the railway, the town began to attract tourists in search of sea air and beautiful scenery.

Today, Saint-Cast-le-Guildo is a popular holiday destination, known for its beautiful beaches, outdoor activities and relaxed atmosphere. The port itself is a bustling marina, with boats coming and going, and restaurants and cafes offering views of the water.

Why visit the port of Saint-Cast-le-Guildo

Saint-Cast-le-Guildo is the perfect place for a family day out or a longer holiday. The Grande Plage is a wide strip of sand that stretches for 2km, perfect for swimming, sandcastle building or just relaxing in the sun.

The town offers a variety of outdoor activities, including sailing, kayaking, golfing and hiking. The coastal path offers spectacular views of the coast, and Pointe de l'Isle is a beautiful place for a stroll.

The harbour itself is a lovely place to stroll, watch the boats and enjoy a meal or drink overlooking the water. There are also a variety of shops and markets where you can buy local produce, souvenirs and seafood.

Some tips for visiting Saint-Cast-le-Guildo

  • Visit the Grande Plage for swimming, sandcastle building or just relaxing in the sun.
  • Take a walk along the coastal path to enjoy coastal views.
  • Visit Pointe de l'Isle for a walk.
  • Enjoy seafood in one of the many restaurants in the port.
  • Go shopping in boutiques and markets.

How to get to the port of Saint-Cast-le-Guildo

  • Saint-Cast-le-Guildo is easily accessible by car.
  • By car: Saint-Cast-le-Guildo is about 30 minutes from Saint-Malo via the D786. There are several car parks in the town, including near the port.
  • There are no direct train or bus services to Saint-Cast-le-Guildo from any major town, so the most convenient way to get there is by car. However, during the summer there may be local bus services or shuttles from nearby towns.
  • Once in Saint-Cast-le-Guildo, the port is easily accessible on foot from the town centre and the beach.

Did you know?

  1. Saint-Cast-le-Guildo is home to one of the largest beaches in the region, stretching for almost 2 km. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
  2. Although the port is small, it has great importance for the local community. It is the starting point for many regattas and nautical events.
  3. Just a short walk from the port, you can discover Fort La Latte, a 14th-century castle that offers breathtaking views of the coast.
  4. The name "Saint-Cast-le-Guildo" is a combination of two Breton saints, Saint Cast and Saint Guildo? The latter is often associated with the healing of eye disorders.

Port of Pléneuf-Val-André

A friendly port nestled in a charming seaside resort with a large sandy beach.

History of the port of Pléneuf-Val-André

Pléneuf-Val-André is a charming seaside resort located west of Saint-Malo, in the Côtes-d'Armor department. The town began to develop as a tourist destination in the 19th century, with the arrival of the railway and the construction of beautiful Belle Époque-style villas along the seafront.

The port of Dahouët, located in the commune of Pléneuf-Val-André, has a history linked to that of deep-sea fishing, particularly in Newfoundland and Iceland. Originally, the port consisted of simple fishermen's cottages. Over time, with the increase in fishing, quays, slipways, warehouses and captains' houses were built. The fishermen left for long fishing trips and the port was then a place of great activity. Today, it is a marina, but its past as a deep-sea fishing port remains very present in the architecture of the place.

Why visit the port of Pléneuf-Val-André

The port of Dahouët is a place full of history where you can discover the maritime heritage of Brittany. You can walk along the quays and admire the old warehouses and captains' houses, witnesses to the golden age of deep-sea fishing.

The port is also a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the Emerald Coast. It offers beautiful sea views, and the nearby seaside resort of Pléneuf-Val-André has a large sandy beach and a renowned golf course.

Some tips for visiting the port of Pléneuf-Val-André

  • Visit the fishing port to learn about the history of deep-sea fishing.
  • Take a stroll along the quays and admire the old warehouses and captains' houses.
  • Enjoy the natural beauty of the Emerald Coast.
  • Visit the seaside resort of Pléneuf-Val-André and enjoy its large sandy beach and renowned golf course.

How to get to the port of Pléneuf-Val-André

  • Pléneuf-Val-André is easily accessible by car.
  • By car: Pléneuf-Val-André is about 50 minutes from Saint-Malo via the D786. There are several car parks in the town, including near the port.
  • There is no direct train service to Pléneuf-Val-André, and bus services are limited, so it is best to get there by car. Once in Pléneuf-Val-André, the port of Dahouët is about 2km from the town centre and can be reached on foot or by bike.
  • Port of Saint-Quay-Portrieux: This port offers a wide range of services and is an ideal starting point for exploring the Breton islands.

Did you know?

  1. The port of Dahouët was once an important centre for cod fishing, particularly towards Newfoundland and Iceland. Sailors would go out to sea for long months, leaving their families on land.
  2. The name Dahouët, which seems mysterious, actually comes from the Breton "Dahouet" which means "Two Winds". This name was chosen because of the prevailing winds that influence the weather conditions of the port.
  3. The port of Dahouët still has many vestiges of its past as a fishing port. You can see captains' houses, slipways, quays and warehouses that date from this period. Some of these buildings are now listed as historical monuments.

Port of Saint-Quay-Portrieux

An important fishing centre, especially renowned for its scallops, it is a vibrant site that offers a fascinating and authentic experience to visitors, whilst playing a vital role in the local economy.

Port of Saint Quay Portrieux

History of the port of Saint-Quay-Portrieux

Saint-Quay-Portrieux is an important port on the northern coast of Brittany, located in the Côtes-d'Armor department. The town has a long maritime history, dating back to Roman times, but it gained importance in the 19th century as a scallop fishing port. Today, it is one of the largest scallop fishing ports in the Bay of Saint-Brieuc.

Why visit the port of Saint-Quay-Portrieux

Saint-Quay-Portrieux is a vibrant port with plenty to offer visitors. The modern marina has over 1000 berths, and there is always a bustling activity with fishing and pleasure boats coming and going.

The harbour is surrounded by restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy fresh seafood, especially scallops. There is also a coastal path that will take you through beautiful scenery of cliffs and beaches.

It is also a mecca of Breton culture, with its maritime museum, its Celtic music festival and its numerous festivals and events throughout the year.

Some activities you can do in Saint-Quay-Portrieux

  • Visit the fishing port and discover the life of the fishermen.
  • Take a stroll along the coastal path and admire the magnificent scenery of cliffs and beaches.
  • Visit the Maritime Museum and learn about the city's maritime history.
  • Attend a festival or cultural event.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants in the harbor.

How to get to the port of Saint-Quay-Portrieux

  • By car: Saint-Quay-Portrieux is about 1h15 from Saint-Malo via the D786. There are several car parks available near the port.
  • By bus: Bus services run regularly from Saint-Brieuc to Saint-Quay-Portrieux, the journey taking approximately 40 minutes.
  • By train: The nearest train station is in Saint-Brieuc. From there you can take a bus to Saint-Quay-Portrieux.

Did you know?

  1. Saint-Quay-Portrieux is one of the main fishing ports for scallops in France? Every year, the town celebrates this local specialty with the Fête de la Coquille Saint-Jacques.
  2. The port of Saint-Quay-Portrieux has undergone many transformations over the years. It has evolved from a simple fishing port to a port combining fishing, trade and pleasure boating activities. The old port, dating from the 19th century, coexists with the modern port, creating a unique contrast.
  3. The port of Saint-Quay-Portrieux is also known for its casino, located nearby. It was built in 1921 and is still in operation, adding a touch of glamour to this small fishing town.
  4. The customs officers' path, which runs along the coast around Saint-Quay-Portrieux, offers spectacular views of the port and the sea. This path was once used by customs officers to monitor the coast and prevent smuggling.
  5. Saint-Quay-Portrieux has a strong link with the United Kingdom. Since 1990, it has been twinned with the town of St Brides Major in Wales. Cultural exchanges take place regularly between these two towns, strengthening their bonds of friendship.

Port of Erquy

Known for its scallop fishing, this port has an authentic atmosphere and a beautiful beach nearby.

Port of ERQUY

History of the port of Erquy

Erquy, also known as the "Capital of the Scallop", has a rich maritime history. Its port has been a major fishing centre since the 19th century. Over the years, the port has grown and is now one of the largest scallop fishing ports in France. Every year in November, Erquy celebrates the scallop fishing season with its popular festival, the "Fête de la coquille Saint-Jacques". This event attracts sea lovers and foodies from all over the region to celebrate and enjoy this delicious seafood.

Why visit the port of Erquy

Erquy is an authentic Breton fishing port that has retained its traditional charm. Walking along the quays and watching the fishermen prepare their boats for the next trip out to sea is a fascinating experience. The restaurants around the port offer a variety of fresh seafood dishes, with of course, the scallop being the star of the menu. Eating it freshly caught is a real treat.

In addition to its culinary assets, Erquy is surrounded by beautiful nature. The pink sandstone cliffs offer hiking trails with panoramic views of the sea and surrounding beaches. In addition, the region is rich in biodiversity, making it a favorite place for nature lovers.

Some activities you can do in Erquy

  • Visit the fishing port and discover the life of the fishermen.
  • Take a stroll along the coastal path and admire the magnificent scenery of cliffs and beaches.
  • Visit the Scallop Museum and learn the history of this iconic seafood.
  • Attend the Scallop Festival, a popular festival held every year in November.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants in the harbor.

How to get to the port of Erquy

  • By car: Erquy is located about an hour's drive west of Saint-Malo. From Saint-Malo, you can take the D786 west, then the D791 to Erquy. There is parking available near the port for visitors.
  • By bus: Bus services are available from Lamballe train station, which is the closest station to Erquy. The journey takes approximately one hour.
  • By train: The nearest train station is in Lamballe. From there you can take a bus to Erquy. Trains to Lamballe depart regularly from Rennes and Saint-Brieuc.

Did you know?

  1. The port of Erquy is rich in history. The oldest documents mentioning the port date from the 15th century, but it is likely that the site was used as a port well before this period.
  2. Not far from the port, you can find the remains of an old pink sandstone quarry, which was once an important source of income for the region. Erquy sandstone has been used in the construction of many famous buildings in France, including the base of the Statue of Liberty in New York!
  3. The port of Erquy is also a starting point for excursions to Cap d'Erquy and Cap Fréhel, two spectacular natural sites offering breathtaking views of the Emerald Coast.
  4. The town of Erquy served as inspiration for the fictional town in the comic strip "Boule et Bill"? The author, Jean Roba, spent many holidays in Erquy and was inspired by the town and its port to create the setting for his stories.

Port of Saint-Brieuc

Although located a little back from the coast, this port provides access to a dynamic city with a rich cultural heritage.

Port of Saint Brieuc

History of the port of Saint-Brieuc

Saint-Brieuc, located in northern Brittany, is a town of character with a historic port known as "Le Légué". Le Légué is a mixed port, with one part dedicated to fishing and another to pleasure boating. Since the 19th century, this port has played a crucial role in the town's economy, serving as a starting point for the transport of goods and fishing.

Why visit the port of Saint-Brieuc

The port of Saint-Brieuc offers an interesting mix of fishing and boating activities. It is a pleasure to stroll along the quays, watching the fishing boats and yachts, and enjoying the lively atmosphere of the seaside cafes and restaurants.

The city itself has much to offer visitors. Old Saint-Brieuc is rich in architectural heritage, with buildings dating back to the Middle Ages. The Cathedral of Saint-Étienne, for example, is a must-see monument. In addition, the city offers a varied choice of cultural activities, with several museums, art galleries, and a rich program of events and festivals throughout the year.

Some activities you can do in Saint-Brieuc

  • Visit the fishing port and discover the life of the fishermen.
  • Stroll along the quays and admire the fishing boats and yachts.
  • Visit St. Stephen's Cathedral and discover its rich architectural heritage.
  • Attend a cultural event, such as a concert, play or festival.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants in the harbor.

How to get to the port of Saint-Brieuc

  • By car: Saint-Brieuc is easily accessible via the A11 motorway from Rennes or the N12 from Brest. The port is located to the east of the city and is well signposted.
  • By train: Saint-Brieuc train station is served by regular trains from Paris, Rennes and Brest. From the station, the port can be reached in about 15 minutes by car or taxi.
  • By plane: The nearest airport is Dinard-Pleurtuit-Saint-Malo Airport, located about an hour's drive from Saint-Brieuc. Car rental services are available at the airport.

Did you know?

  1. The port of Saint-Brieuc is also known as "Port du Légué". It is located on the Gouët River, and is in fact the only river port in the Côtes-d'Armor. It takes its name from the former commune of Légué which was attached to Saint-Brieuc in 1869.
  2. Originally, the port of Légué was one of the most important fishing ports in Brittany, especially for sardine fishing. Today, it is mainly known as a marina and commercial port.
  3. Saint-Brieuc is well known for its bay, which is one of the largest nature reserves in France. But what many don't know is that the bay of Saint-Brieuc is home to a species of algae called Zostera marina, or sea grass, which serves as food for barnacle geese, migratory birds that come to the bay every winter.
  4. Finally, did you know that the port of Légué was the scene of one of the largest fishermen's strikes in Brittany? In 1994, fishermen blocked the port for several weeks to protest against fishing quotas imposed by the European Union.

Port of Paimpol

Former fishing port, rich in history, today a charming port town.

Port of Paimpol

History of the port of Paimpol:

Paimpol is a port located in the Côtes-d'Armor region of Brittany. It has a rich history, dating back to the Middle Ages when it was a small fishing village. However, Paimpol experienced spectacular development in the 19th century when it became a major centre for cod fishing in Iceland. Thousands of sailors set off from Paimpol on long and perilous fishing trips to Iceland, an aspect of the town's history that was immortalised in Pierre Loti's novel, "Pêcheur d'Islande".

Why visit the Port of Paimpol:

There are many reasons to visit Paimpol. The town has a certain charm, with its old half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and bustling port. You can visit the "Maison de l'Islande", which tells the story of cod fishing in Iceland, or the Musée de la Mer, which offers an interactive exploration of maritime life.

Additionally, every two years, Paimpol hosts the Festival du Chant de Marin, an event that attracts music groups from around the world and historic boats for a weekend celebration of maritime culture.

Paimpol is also close to the island of Bréhat, a beautiful car-free island that you can explore on foot or by bike. The town itself is also pleasant to visit, with many restaurants serving local specialities, including of course seafood.

Some activities you can do in Paimpol

  • Visit the fishing port and learn about the history of cod fishing in Iceland.
  • Stroll along the quays and admire the fishing boats and yachts.
  • Visit the Iceland House and learn about the history of cod fishing in Iceland.
  • Visit the Museum of the Sea and discover maritime life.
  • Attend the Festival du Chant de Marin, an event that attracts musical groups from around the world and historic boats.
  • Visit the island of Bréhat, a beautiful car-free island that you can explore on foot or by bike.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the city's many restaurants.

How to get to the Port of Paimpol:

Paimpol is accessible by road and by train. By car, you can take the N12 from Rennes, then the D6 to Guingamp. By train, Paimpol is served by TER Bretagne trains from Rennes and Saint-Brieuc. During the summer, a steamboat service runs between Paimpol and the island of Bréhat, offering a pleasant way to see the sights of the region.

Did you know?

  1. The port of Paimpol was the setting for a famous novel! Indeed, the novel "Pêcheur d'Islande" by Pierre Loti, published in 1886, depicts sailors from Paimpol leaving for long fishing trips in Iceland. This greatly contributed to the port's reputation.
  2. Paimpol has hosted a very popular music festival for several years, the "Festival du chant de marin". This festival, which takes place every two years, attracts maritime folk music artists from all over the world. It is an opportunity for the port of Paimpol to relive its maritime past.
  3. The church of Saint Jacques was built by the fishermen from Paimpol who had gone to Iceland. Each fisherman leaving on a campaign brought a stone for the construction of the church.
  4. The port of Paimpol is the starting point of an old steam railway? The "Vapeur du Trieux" is a steam train that connects Paimpol to Pontrieux along the Trieux river. It is a beautiful way to discover the Breton landscape.

Port of Binic

Ideal place for families with its wide seafront, sandy beaches, and children's play areas.

Port of Binic

History of the port of Binic:

Binic, nicknamed "the beauty spot of the Côtes d'Armor", is a charming seaside resort with a rich maritime past. The history of the port dates back to the time of cod fishing in Newfoundland in the 19th century. Today, although fishing activity has declined, the port remains a lively place, hosting a marina and many events throughout the year.

Why visit the Port of Binic:

Binic Harbour is perfect for a family day out. Children can have fun on the sandy beach, explore the playgrounds or take part in one of the many activities organised during the summer. Adults, meanwhile, can stroll along the quays, admire the pleasure boats, visit the local shops or enjoy seafood in one of the many seaside restaurants.

In addition, Binic hosts the "Fête des Terre-Neuvas" every year, a festival that celebrates the town's maritime history with concerts, exhibitions and demonstrations of traditional skills.

Some activities you can do in Binic

  • Visit the fishing port and learn about the history of cod fishing in Newfoundland.
  • Stroll along the quays and admire the pleasure boats.
  • Visit the sandy beach and let the kids have fun.
  • Explore the playgrounds.
  • Take part in one of the many activities organized during the summer. (bike rides, fishing, beach games, etc.)
  • Visit local shops.
  • Enjoy seafood at one of the many seaside restaurants.
  • Attend the Fête des Terre-Neuvas, a festival that celebrates the city's maritime history.

How to get to the Port of Binic:

Binic is easily accessible by road.

From Saint-Brieuc, take the D786 towards Plouha and follow the signs for Binic. The journey should take no more than 20 minutes. There are car parks near the port.

Did you know?

  1. The name "Binic" comes from the Breton "Binih", which means "the egret"! Indeed, these birds are commonly seen in the region, hence the name.
  2. Binic was one of the first cod fishing ports in Brittany. At its peak, the port of Binic sent more than 100 ships per year to fish for cod in Newfoundland.
  3. Binic has a beach known as "la Banche"! It got its name because of the mussel bank that used to stretch across a large part of the beach. Today, la Banche is a beautiful sandy beach that attracts bathers and families during the summer.
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