Presqu'île de Crozon
Jutting into the Atlantic like a craggy fist, the Presqu'île de Crozon is a wild, windswept peninsula in Brittany that rewards travellers with dramatic cliffs, secret coves, and a raw coastal beauty that feels a world away from the region's more touristed corners. This is a place for hikers, history buffs, and anyone who loves the salty tang of the sea and the sound of waves crashing against ancient rock.
Highlights & What to See
- Cap de la Chèvre – The peninsula's southern tip offers a stunning walk along vertiginous cliffs with panoramic views over the Atlantic. On a clear day, you can see the islands of Sein and Ouessant.
- Pointe du Van – A wild headland crowned by the Chapelle Saint-They, a tiny granite chapel that seems to grow out of the rock. The coastal path here is a photographer's dream.
- Morgat Beach – A sheltered, sandy beach perfect for a swim or a lazy afternoon. The nearby village has a handful of crêperies for a proper Breton galette.
- Grotte de l'Autel – A sea cave accessible at low tide, with a natural altar-like rock formation. Bring sturdy shoes and check the tide times.
- Fort de la Pointe des Espagnols – A 16th-century fortification with a fascinating history (it was briefly held by Spanish troops). The views across the Rade de Brest are superb.
- Aber Wrac'h & Aber Benoît – These two deep, fjord-like estuaries just north of the peninsula are prime spots for kayaking, birdwatching, and exploring tiny stone villages.
Suggested Time to Spend
Give yourself at least two full days to explore the peninsula properly. One day is enough for a whistle-stop tour of the main headlands and Morgat, but you'll miss the quieter trails and coves. With three days, you can hike sections of the GR34 coastal path, kayak in the abers, and visit the nearby fishing port of Camaret-sur-Mer. If you're self-driving, base yourself in Crozon village or Morgat for easy access to both coasts.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Brest – A 45-minute drive north, Brest is a gritty, fascinating port city with the excellent Océanopolis aquarium and a lively maritime history.
- Camaret-sur-Mer – A picture-perfect harbour town with a medieval tower, a lively Sunday market, and excellent seafood restaurants.
- Menez-Hom – A distinctive hill (330 m) with sweeping views over the peninsula and the Bay of Douarnenez. A short but rewarding hike.
- Pointe du Raz – One of Brittany's most dramatic headlands, about an hour's drive south. Combine with a visit to the Baie des Trépassés.
- Île de Sein – Take a ferry from Audierne to this low-lying, treeless island with a unique, windswept charm. Best as a day trip in good weather.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.