Campsites in Belle-Île-en-Mer
Camping in Belle-Île is the best way to stay in touch with the wilderness of the place. Several campsites will welcome you here for a family holiday or even a weekend with friends or lovers. Our favourite campsite is located in the commune of Le Palais, the Bordeneo campsite **** has an outdoor pool area as well as a heated and covered swimming pool, and is only 500 metres from the beach and a 20 minute walk from the pier.
The essential discoveries of the island
Considered as the wonder of the island, the Pointe des Poulains, which was first called Pointe des Roches Isolées, is located at the northernmost point of Belle-Ile and the magnificent spectacle of the ocean is never ending but changes according to the season. Built in 1868, the Poulains lighthouse belongs to the pretty commune of Bangor and is situated on an islet, where it is important to watch the tides to avoid getting stuck for several hours. Accessible all year round for free, it is one of the most powerful lighthouses in Europe. It is 18 metres high and the view it offers over Quiberon Bay and the island of Groix is grandiose! The Maison du Littoral (Coastal House) allows visitors to explore the island's marine and terrestrial biodiversity and the abundance of its nature through immersive and entertaining exhibitions. It was Sarah Bernhardt who had the fort converted into a home, and today it is part of Belle-Île's heritage, along with the Villa des Cinq Parties du Monde, which is a fascinating place to visit to learn about her work.
The Aiguilles de Port Coton is the name given to the superb jagged rocks, sometimes with diabolical shapes, which can be seen from a cliff that juts out into the water. It comes from the large cotton-like flakes of foam made by the swell when the sea is rough. The site has been given the designation ENS (Espace Naturel Sensible), which covers fragile or threatened sites. To protect this unique site, which is home to a rare ecosystem, it is important not to pick anything and to stay on the marked paths. The famous painter Claude Monet painted many pictures of Port Coton and the story goes that although his stay was only supposed to last two weeks, he stayed for two months. Finally, even if the needles are beautiful in all seasons, it is strongly recommended to go there to watch the sunset, a unique moment!
The capital of Belle-Île-en-Mer, Le Palais is very much appreciated for the generosity of its historical heritage, which is due in particular to the Vauban Citadel which has dominated the town since the end of the 17th century. The port of Le Palais, the economic lung of the island until the beginning of the 20th century, is also a real favourite with its pretty coloured houses reflected in the water, as is the old town and its fortified wall. From the latter you have a beautiful view of the port and its sailing ships. The Belle Fontaine (or Aiguade de Vauban), which is a listed historical monument and probably built by Vauban, is a must for those who love old stones and their history.
If the Grands Sables beach is one of the essential beaches of Belle-Île-en-Mer, it is notably for its transparent water thanks to the seaweed, a sort of emblem of a clean and healthy beach. But also the landscape that it offers when you reach it by the coastal road. You won't regret it when you see the breathtaking view of the islands of Houat and Hoëdic and the bay of Quiberon. A nautical base will allow all those who do not appreciate idleness, to practice water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, paddle and many others. Of all the advantages it offers, the Grands Sables beach is also protected from the west winds, which gives it a calm and less dangerous sea for swimming. Finally, its north-western orientation favours the proliferation of small shellfish as well as crabs and razor clams. An authentic place which keeps its wild and preserved side, just like the island.