Only 30 minutes' drive separate the two main capes of the Penthièvre coast. But if you take the time to drive along this fantastic coastline, you'll be in for a real surprise!
This part of the Breton coastline is full of natural and historical treasures, and is an integral part of the Grand site Cap d'Erquy - Cap Fréhel ".
With its fine sandy beaches, steep cliffs, medieval fort and migratory birds, the area is a must-see in Brittany!
The seaside resort of Erquy is a great base from which to explore all these wonders!
Majestic Cap Fréhel
- © Pim van der Maden / Shutterstock
After leaving the town of Erquy, take the D34 and D786 towards Plurien and the seaside resort of Sables d'Or les Pins.
The resort of Sables d'Or les Pins was built from scratch in 1922. Its architecture is partly inspired by the Norman residences of Deauville. But what really catches the eye here is the superb beach!
This magnificent crescent of fine sand stretches for almost 3 kilometres. The dunes, the sea, the pine trees and the opulent villas transport you to another world!
Sables d'Or beach at low tide
- © Begir / ShutterstockWhere to stay in Sable d'Or les Pins?
⭐ The Lagrange Vacances Cap Green residence is located in Sables d'Or les Pins.
🏖️ The complex is set back from the resort centre, with the town's superb beach just 700 metres away.
🏊♂️ As a bonus, you will have free access to the beautiful indoor swimming pool. A sauna is also available for an additional fee.
🛌 Wi-Fi connection is available in the accommodation for a fee. Please note that bed linen and towels are provided.
The accommodation varies in size and can sleep up to 8 people. The largest measure more than 60 m².
🚗 Finally, you should know that the structure has a private car park reserved for its customers.
Erquy
After breakfast in the heart of the resort in the bakery-pastry shop. You'll also find a picnic with their savoury specialities.
Head back towards Cap Fréhel, following the road along the seafront and its fabulous scenery.
You arrive at the protected site of Cap Fréhel. This majestic site towers more than 70 metres above the raging waves of the English Channel.
The panorama you can enjoy here stretches from the Ile de Bréhat to the Pointe du Grouin. You have to pay to get to the lighthouse, but the view from the top is fantastic!
As an added bonus, Cap Fréhel is home to a renowned ornithological nature reserve of inestimable ecological value!
The site is a breeding ground and passageway for a large number of bird species (kittiwakes, cormorants, razorbills).
Nearly 400 hectares of moorland are also protected. The area is part of the Natura 2000 network.
Not far from Cap Fréhel is another of the region's must-sees, Fort la Latte!
The Château de la Roche Gouyon (or Fort la Latte) was built in the 14th century and retains its medieval appearance, overlooking an exceptional geographical site.
The castle is open every day from April to September from 10.30am to 6pm (until 7pm in July and August). The rest of the year, opening times are more random.
Le Fort La Latte
- © canadastock / ShutterstockWhere to sleep near Cap Fréhel?
⭐ The Datcha du cap Fréhel chalet rental is on the D117 road which serves Fort la Latte and a little further on Cap Fréhel.
The Datcha du cap Fréhel offers a superb view of the garden, you will also find a terrace.
🛌 Inside the chalet are 3 bedrooms and a living room (with a flat-screen TV).
The kitchen is fully equipped. For example, you will benefit from a fridge and an oven.
The chalet also has 2 bathrooms with showers. Towels and bed linen are provided.
🚗 Finally, you will find a private car park on site where you can park your vehicle during your stay.
Erquy
⏰ When should you come to walk the paths and tracks between Erquy and Cap Fréhel?
April to October is the best time to go walking.
Summer, with its beautiful sunny days, lends itself well to walking, alternating with refreshing swimming breaks!
Winter also lends itself to walking. The fresh, iodine-laden sea air is particularly invigorating.
At this time of year, the winter storms give Cap Fréhel a grandiose wild look.
Note, however, that many addresses are closed in the off-season!
🚌 How do you get to the seaside resort of Erquy and the surrounding area?
🚈 The nearest SNCF train station to the seaside resort of Erquy is Saint-Brieuc. From Paris, several TGV trains run to Saint-Brieuc every day of the year.
🚘 By car Erquy is around 450 kilometres from Paris. Allow just over 4 hours' drive (4h20 to be exact) following the A 11 motorway, then the A 81 motorway, and finally the N 157, N 12 and D 34 roads.
🚗 Where can I park to access the detailed sites between Erquy and Cap Fréhel?
Several car parks are provided along the route. This is particularly the case at Cap Fréhel, note that spaces are chargeable.
In summer, some spaces are quickly taken up, so come early!
