I was absolutely charmed by this car-free French island off the Brittany coast. Brehat is actually two islands connected by a bridge and perfect for a leisurely bike ride (or stroll). The biking route is not that difficult and I would recommend that you allow yourself at least 3-4 hours so you can 'stop and smell the flowers." The route takes you through the north side (Ile Nord ) with its wild and windswept meadows and the south side (Ile Sud) with its charming stone and slate houses surrounded by lush private gardens of hydrangeas, mimosa, figs, palm trees and eucalyptus trees. The islands are surrounded by a multitude of little islets – some accessible at low tide, others propriété privée. Gorgeous pink and orange granite rockscapes are found on the island's northern tip. Nature lovers will appreciate Brehat as it is renowned as a sanctuary for rare species of wild flowers and birds. Not to be missed--there's a creperie enroute located in an old stonehouse that offers wonderful crepes and friendly service.
The island of Brehat lies 10 minutes by ferry (can be busy on a good weather day) from the French mainland off the Britanny coast, just north of Paimpol, We visited the island on a perfect sunny day, blue skies and seas.Parking available for over 600 cars and a short walk to the ferry. The walk on both sides can be longer at low tides, but the walk is enjoyable, open fields, hedgerows, cows and donkey.On the island there is a market in the square, plenty of bars, cafes and restuarants serving a variety of menus. A photographers dream on a good day with much subject matter to be enjoyed as the island is one of stone cottages, flowers and beaches a chance to step back and relax . No cars, save for the odd tractor and electric cart so walking boots, comfortable shoes are required. There are hotels and cottages for rent for longer retreat weekends. Plenty of paths to explore either over a weekend, or for a day but check the ferry timetable. Ideal hotel on the mainland close to the ferry and serves fresh seafood. There is a bus service from Paimpol to and from the ferry.
I go to Bretagne every other year and never miss a visit to Brehat. Every time I go, It feels like there is more and more people there, but nevertheless, it is still a great place to spend a day, away from cars, with cute houses, rocky shore, winding path up and down, and colorful flowers everywhere, like in a fairy tale. My favourite Bretagne island...
My guidebook described this as a 'hiker's paradise'. If you like hiking amongst hoards of people on tarmac paths then maybe. There are meant to be no vehicles but we frequently had to stand to one side for rubbish trucks and tractors. There are very few paths on the coast so the fact it's an island is almost irrelevant. There are some pretty houses and lovely flowers and plants, it does feel a bit like being in the Mediterranean, but an hour would have been enough for me rather than a whole day trip. Maybe I made the mistake of going to Ile aux Moines before this was poor in comparison.
This charming little Island with it's Mediterranean climate and washed by clear blue seas is a must to visit. With no transport you either walk the 7 kms around the island or hire a bike. Some of the hotels are served by a tractor pulling a trailer for passengers and luggage. There is camping on the Island and hostels for the young. Lots to see and enjoy. All the main eating places and the few shops are in the centre ( Bourg ). Can get quite busy, a frequent ferry from the mainland, the sea journey may only be 10 mins but if the tide is out you may have a 15 mins walk up the quay.
We had a lovely day here exploring the paths through the car-free island. With a 6 and a 3 year old, we managed to cover most of the southern half of the island starting with the beach, then galettes in the village, the chapel on the hill and a bit of an adventurous scramble down paths through a wood to find the low tide pier. It's very easy to get lost as the high sided paths feel a bit like a maze at times but it is so tranquil and peaceful. Highly recommended.
I'm almost reluctant to review this, contributing to more tourism. I agree with the other reviews submitted here. It had been a rainy day, not much fun, but people kept telling me to go to Brehat, and fortunately the weather cleared up for the ferry ride and my time exploring it. The island (lower being all I had time for) is naturally exceedingly good in its hilly and rocky terrain. The little houses (summer homes of the wealthy, I assume) were in such beautiful condition. And then the landscaping and flowers! Intoxicating! I left thinking this must be the most beautiful place in all the world. That's probably silly. I've been in some very beautiful places. But so it seemed that Sunday afternoon in May.
We took a group trip (all adults & grown up kids) here in May 2014. Peaceful, beautiful, and once you get away from the port, it doesn't feel crowded. Easy hiking - maybe 8km for the round trip including the north island over the bridge. Lots of beautiful flowers, and almost no cars, although the farmers & town's workers drive around the little lanes on tractors at speed.
Ile the Brehat can be easily reached by ferry,it is car-free and offers a truly unique experience just off the coast of mainland Brittany; in spring and summer months its blooming flowers and cool breeze well let you enjoy a pleasant day! Do remember cap,sunglasses and suncream!
Imagine small stone houses, surrounded by gigantic flowers and almost covered in green plant. No cars allowed but a few tractors here and there. Cows and sheep in pasture. And the sea surrounding it all. That's Ile de Bréhat!