Hiking and walking in South Finistère
A Breton paradise for nature lovers
Finistère, the department that means “End of the Earth”, is known for its charm and authenticity. Hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails offer enthusiasts a veritable playground. The famous GR34 – “Sentier des douaniers” is the most emblematic hiking trail in Finistère and Brittany in general, running along the entire coastline.
But the inland routes don’t blush, being just as much a feast for the eyes with their bucolic landscapes.
From the customs path
to the GR 34
We can’t do an article on hiking without mentioning the GR 34 coastal path. In the 1970s, this path was used by customs officers to prevent smuggling. In 1967, a project was launched to revitalize this historic itinerary and, above all, to create the missing sections to open up a passageway along the coast to pedestrians.
Today, this 1,800 km trail runs along the coast of Brittany thanks to its red and white markings, with sea views almost the entire way. Since 2017, the starting point has been Mont-Saint-Michel, then the Bay of Saint Brieuc and the Pink Granite Coast. The adventure continues in Finistère via the famous Crozon peninsula and the Cornouaille region. Finally, the Golfe du Morbihan and the Parc Naturel Régional de Brière guide you to Saint-Nazaire, the final stop on the GR 34.
Some hiking and walking itineraries
Stroll in Pont-Aven
The Henan circuit is undoubtedly the perfect choice for a hike on a hot day. In the forest or on the banks of the Aven, the coolness of the water and the shade of the trees will make you appreciate all the more what you’ll discover along the way.
It’s also a time to be in harmony with nature, enjoying the many species of birds that you’ll find on the banks of the river.
Along the way, you’ll spot granite buildings: a XVᵉ century tide mill and the Château du Hénan.
A walk in Trévignon
A family hike or stroll along the Trévignon ponds will delight young and old alike as they observe the rich flora and fauna. A total of 7 ponds (called loc’h in Breton) create a veritable ecosystem in a dune landscape where numerous species cohabit. You’ll be accompanied by the gentle song of the birds that find an essential refuge here. The dunes are home to an exceptional flora, including the rare and beautiful “blue thistle”.
Stroll in Névez
Whether you call them thatched houses or thatched cottages, there’s no doubt that they’re an emblem of South Finistère. From Tahiti beach, we invite you to walk along the cliffs to the charming village of Kerascoët. This 15th-century village is a peaceful place not to be missed for discovering the richness of Brittany, and a photographer’s delight.
And where to walk inland?
Of course, due to the popularity and beauty of the GR 34, the seaside paths are the most popular with local hikers and tourists alike. However, if you venture into central Finistère, you’ll have no trouble getting to or discovering many awe-inspiring sites.
First of all, don’t hesitate to visit the Roches du Diable (Devil’s Rocks) located in the communes of Querrien, Locunolé and Guilligomarc’h. You’ll discover a natural heritage with a mighty river at its center, the Ellé. This playground for kayakers, dotted with large granite boulders and bordered by a hiking trail, is a feast for the eyes.
Just a few kilometers from this site, head for the multi-faceted commune of Scaër. As you stroll through the commune or its countryside, you’ll stop to contemplate numerous sites such as the chapel of Plascaër, the menhir Saint-Jean and to discover the richness of nature such as the forest of Coatloc’h or the stones of coadry.
This article gives you an overview of what South Finistère has to offer to help you discover the richness and diversity of this region. Thanks to the many hiking trails, you’ll also be able to visit sites that have been awarded the “Art and History” label.
There are also numerous events to discover, including storytelling walks, gourmet hikes and musical excursions.
If you want to be at the heart of the hiking trails, we invite you to stay at Flower Camping le Kergariou, which links the most beautiful paths in just a few kilometers.
You can find all the hiking trails in the Quimperlé area here.