#1 Ster Vraz
A sheltered beach
near SauzonThis large, sheltered cove is one of the most photogenic spots on the island, with the natural riches of Ster Vraz lending a unique atmosphere to your photos. Towering cliffs encircle the beach, providing a stunning perspective of the cove and the neighbouring moorland, especially in spring. During this season, the coastline is a vivid yellow, thanks to the flowering gorse, a species endemic to Belle-Île. The area’s geology is equally remarkable, with the beach composed of a blend of sand and quartz pebbles. Ster Vraz is also perfect for watching sailboats, as it forms a natural harbour with its neighbour, the Ster Ouen cove, where vessels often anchor overnight.
A hike to discover
Belle-Île’s signature sites
What could be better than an evening hike with friends? Starting from Sauzon’s harbour, a 10 km route will lead you to Ster Vraz in 2 hours and 30 minutes. The walk is relatively easy and takes you via Pointe des Poulains, where a spectacular panorama of the ocean and rugged coastline awaits. Don’t miss the landmark monuments at the site!
The advantage of this hike? A stunning dinner on the wild coast at “A l’Ouest Bistrozza” merely 2 km from Ster Vraz, at the Golfe des Poulains. Rooftop terrace seating guarantees breathtaking views on the ocean and Les Poulains. On the Menu: burgers, tapas and pizzas, all made unique with local and sometimes unusual ingredients!
The Vival grocery store on the port of Sauzon is open year round and stocks everything necessary for a quaint picnic on the coast: Bellilois cheese, honey and cakes as well as island grown fruits and veg.
During summer the crêperie and ice cream parlour l’Herminoise offers organic takeaway crepes, galettes and waffles.
This cove of fine sand provides an enchanting setting for those bold enough to tackle the rugged trails of Bangor’s coastal tails. The beach is accessed via a car park perched on the coast, less than 5 minutes away. From there, a path leads through meadows where Belle-Île’s unique flora is on full display. At the end of the trail the beach is revealed, framed by dunes, soft sand, and cliffs rising some 15 metres above the ocean.
Once on the beach, explore the wild coast’s pristine environment and its small caves flanking both sides of the cove. The fine sand and gentle slope makes for a very pleasant stroll along the water’s edge. During low tide and high coefficients, it’s possible to walk to the nearby Herlin beach on the vast exposed seabed. Baluden is also a prime swimming spot in summer, with its waters being some of the warmest and calmest on Belle-Île.
- By bike, follow the green cycle route towards Locmaria. In the village of Herlin, turn right towards Baluden and a dirt road will lead you to the beach parking lot in 5 minutes.
- By car, follow the D25 towards Locmaria and turn right towards the village of Herlin. Then follow the small road towards Baluden.
- With the bus in summer take the line 4 and get off at the stop Herlin. A 30 minute walk will lead you to the beach.
Neighbouring Herlin is the start point of an 8km loop that passes along the beach at Baluden. You will find this loop and 16 others our Hiker’s Guide available at the Tourism Office in Le Palais or on our website.
Night tours of Grand Phare are available. 247 steps will take you 92 meters above sea level to an unparalleled height for Belle-Ile! The monument also houses a museum dedicated to the history of lighthouses.
#3 Giving
A protected natural area
Unique in BrittanyThe largest beach on Belle-Île’s wild coast, Donnant, offers a perfect vantage point for watching sunsets, thanks to the surrounding rocky relief. Two plateaus, Anter to the north and the plateau near the village of Donnant to the south, provide stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the beach, and the impressive dunes—among the tallest in Brittany.
A surfer’s beach
swimmers welcome!
Donnant is renowned as the island’s premier surf spot, offering an average of 200 surfing days a year. Waves can reach heights of up to 3 metres, making it a hub for surfers and bodyboarders. The beach hosts two surf schools:
These schools provide lessons for both children and adults, with equipment available for hire.
In summer, Donnant is also a family-friendly swimming destination, with lifeguards present in July and August, ensuring a safe experience for all visitors.
Barely 5 minutes from Donnant, the “Poney Bleu” equestrian center in the village of Anter offers horseback tours along the coastal trails around Donnant.
Looking for a watersports focused stay? Thanks to its 50+ beaches, Belle-Ile has everything you need to make the best of your time by the sea:
Activities and leisure
Get moving, explore, indulge!
Before or after the beachWater activities, restaurants and bars and top tips to keep yourself busy before and after the beach.