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Located in the extreme west of Brittany, the Pointe du Raz is a must for lovers of grandiose landscapes, nature hikes and mysterious legends. This rocky promontory, which extends into the Atlantic Ocean, offers a superb panorama.
The Pointe du Raz is located near the village of Plogoff at 1h15 from the campsite. It is an exceptional natural site made up of granite cliffs that rise nearly 70 meters above the Iroise Sea. It has been classified as a Grand Site de France since 1996.
The Pointe du Raz has always been a strategic place for maritime navigation. Over the centuries, it has witnessed many shipwrecks, earning it the nickname of “Ship’s Graveyard”. The lighthouse of La Vieille, was built in 1887 to guide the boats and avoid new dramas. Today, this emblematic lighthouse is still in function and can be admired from the point.
The Pointe du Raz is crossed by the famous hiking trail GR34, also called the “customs path”. This portion of the trail offers spectacular views of the cliffs, and the surrounding islands, such as the island of Sein. The hike usually starts at the parking lot of the site, then follows the coastline and passes by the Baie des Trépassés, offering an idyllic setting for a break.
It is a place which shelters a rich biodiversity, in particular of the species of marine birds like the crested cormorants, the herring gulls or the guillemots of Troïl. The local flora is also remarkable, with plants typical of the Breton coast, such as gorse, heather and eagle fern.
Like Douarnenez, the Pointe du Raz is closely linked to the legend of the City of Ys, a mythical sunken city that lies off the Baie des Trépassés. According to the legend, the city would have been swallowed by the waves following the opening of the locks by the princess Dahut, daughter of king Gradlon. Today, it is said that in calm weather, you can hear the bells of the cathedral of Ys ringing under the water.
Shipwreckers, also called “wreckers”, are also part of the dark and mysterious stories of the Pointe du Raz. These men lured ships in distress by lighting false fires to cause them to run aground on the reefs. They would then recover the stranded cargo for resale. This practice would have lasted until the 19th century, contributing to the reputation of the Pointe du Raz as a dangerous and inhospitable place for sailors.
The Pointe du Raz is accessible by car, by taking the D7 from the city of Quimper. A paid parking lot is available near the site, from where you can walk to the point. Free shuttles are also available in high season to facilitate access to the site.
In the vicinity of Pointe du Raz, you will find restaurants and crêperies where you can savor the delights of Breton cuisine, such as buckwheat pancakes and kouign-amann.
Take the opportunity to stop at Monsieur Papier in Plogoff, a stationery café open every day from 10:30 am to 8 pm. You will surely find a local creation to bring back as a souvenir: notebooks, posters, pencils with original designs inspired by the sea.
The café offers an assortment of 5 smoked fish, snacks made from local organic products, drinks, homemade pastries and artisanal ice creams, all in a family atmosphere and in an exceptional setting with a breathtaking view of the moors and the ocean.
Pointe du Raz can be visited all year round, but the summer months are the most pleasant in terms of weather. However, it is recommended that you bring clothing that is suitable for wind and rain, even in summer, as the weather can be changeable.
The Pointe du Raz is a must for those who wish to discover the wild beauty and mysterious legends of Brittany. Whether you are passionate about hiking, maritime history or simply looking for a breathtaking panorama, Pointe du Raz will enchant you and leave you with unforgettable memories.
4* campsite with direct access to the beach between Fouesnant and Concarneau.
