Brittany is much more than a surfing destination. It is a land where wild nature and powerful waves meet, shaping the character of its inhabitants for centuries, especially Breton surfers, heirs to a long maritime tradition.
Surfing in Brittany means facing the westerly wind, the Kornog, and the unpredictable swells of the Atlantic, a challenge once taken up by local sailors and fishermen. Today, Brittany is establishing itself as the second-best surfing region in France , and it's on the rise. Follow our 10 tips to make your Breton surf trip a An unforgettable adventure .
1. Following in the footsteps of the pioneers of Breton surfing
Brittany saw the emergence of surfing pioneers as early as the 1970s, when the first surfers began to tame its powerful waves. Figures like Michel Noirrit , at Pors-ar-Vag , Philippe Verseleto at La Torche, or even Bruno Troadec marked the beginning of this adventure.
It was they who, inspired by the sea they knew so well, gave birth to a true Breton surfing culture, passed down from generation to generation. After the publication in 1976 of a photo of one of the most beautiful Breton surf spots, Roches-Blanches in Douarnenez Bay, English surfers came to explore these waves, thus initiating the first surf trips in Brittany.
2. Iconic surf spots not to be missed in Brittany
Brittany officially has around thirty surf spots , spread across four major regions: the North Coast , the Brest region And the Crozon peninsula , Audierne Bay , and Morbihan . Each of these areas offers breathtaking landscapes, enough to make your adventure unforgettable.
– The Torch: An iconic Breton surf spot, accessible to all levels, located in the Bay of Audierne.
– La Palue, Crozon peninsula: Wild and authentic, this spot is popular with experienced surfers.
– The Wild Coast of Quiberon: Located in Morbihan, it offers a spectacular setting and consistent waves.
– Locquirec, on the North coast: A more intimate spot, perfect for surfers seeking authenticity, or those looking to surf in a more tranquil atmosphere.
3. Enjoy the varied and breathtaking landscapes
The diversity of Brittany's landscapes is a major asset for surfers. Whether you're looking for majestic cliffs, long stretches of fine sand, or small, hidden coves, Brittany has it all.
On the North coast, you will discover the famous pink granite and the headlands of Fréhel And Erquy , while the peninsula of Crozon It will fascinate you with its Piles de Pois (Pea Stacks) and spectacular cliffs. GR34 , which runs along the Breton coast, will allow you to enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean while getting from one spot to another.
4. Choose a board that suits your trip
Traveling to Brittany often involves traveling for miles in search of the best waves, and a Newave detachable board is an ideal choice to maximize space in your van or car .
These boards, bio-sourced And Developed in France , they are perfect for surfers traveling in groups or with a lot of equipment. Modular and practical, they allow you to explore new spots without any hassle.
5. Explore the multiple swell directions
Brittany, due to its prominent position in the Atlantic and its rugged coastline, offers unique exposure to swells and winds from various directions. It is one of the few regions where you can find a spot that works almost all the time, regardless of the wind or swell.
THE Kornog , this westerly wind that sweeps across the coast, brings conditions that are sometimes difficult but exciting for experienced surfers, recalling the challenges that generations of Breton sailors have had to face.
6. Discover Breton surf culture
Since the 1970s, Brittany has seen the emergence of a generation of champions who have shaped its surf culture: names like Ronan Chatain , Thomas Joncour , Gaspard Larsonneur Or the Cloarec brothers resonate today in the French surfing community.
By surfing the same waves as them, you will feel energy and passion which inspire these champions and which have made Brittany a leading region for surfing enthusiasts.
7. Don't miss Breton cuisine
Between surf sessions, take the time to discover the delights of Breton gastronomy . Crêpes, served with a good local cider, are a must, as are oysters and fresh seafood. And of course, treat yourself to some salted caramel for a sweet break. Breton cuisine is a true homage to the sea and the land, perfect for recharging after an intense day in the waves. Our top recommendations for delicious meals in Brittany:
- Creperies: Le Rayon Vert – Pointe de la Torche – 29120 Plomeur; La Bolée, 48 Boulevard de la Plage – 29160 Morgat, Crozon; Place au Beurre in Quimper
- Seafood : Le Vivier – 3 Route du Vivier, 29280 Plouzané; L'Escale – 20 Quai Gambetta, 29900 Concarneau; La Cale – Rue de la Cale, 56510 Saint-Pierre-Quiberon
- Cider: Rozavern Cider House – Rozavern, 29160 Telgruc-sur-Mer; Kerné Cider House – 87 Kerouzien, 29710 Pouldreuzic; Manoir du Kinkiz Cider House – Route de Quimper, 29000 Quimper
- Beach bars: The Baobab – La Torche Beach, 29120 Plomeur; Le Surfing – Boulevard de l'Océan, 29740 Plobannalec-Lesconil; Le Beach Break – 675 rue de Sieck, 29250 Santec; L'Ulteam – Longchamp Beach, 35800 Saint-Lunaire; Les Korrigans – Dunes Beach, 56510 Saint-Pierre-Quiberon
8. Vary the seasons, vary the pleasures
Brittany can be surfed in all seasons, each bringing its own set of specific characteristics. In summer , the waters take on turquoise hues, and although the waves are often smaller, they are ideal for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
In the fall , the region reveals its full potential, with powerful and consistent swells. It's also the time when the beaches empty out, offering perfect conditions for peaceful surf sessions.
9. Immerse yourself in Breton culture
A surftrip In Brittany, it's also an opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich and vibrant culture.
Attend one of the many traditional festivals, such as the Cornouaille Festival in Quimper or the Interceltic Festival of Lorient. For more modern events, the Vieilles Charrues in Carhaix and the Festival du Bout du Monde in Crozon are not to be missed. These festive occasions will allow you to better understand the proud and welcoming Breton spirit.
10. Respect nature
Brittany is a protected region, and it's essential to respect this environment during your surf trip. As surfers, we have a responsibility to preserve the places we love .
Please take care to pick up your rubbish . Respect the wildlife and plants , and adopt eco-friendly practices to To guarantee the protection of Brittany's beaches and waves for future generations . To minimize the carbon footprint of your Breton surf trip, we suggest you take advantage of the public transport provided by the region.
For example, you can take the bus 56B from Quimper train station to La Torche. To get to Quiberon, a tourist train, the Tire-Bouchon, serves the peninsula during the summer season. By bus, line 1, departing from Auray TGV station, provides year-round service to Quiberon. This is the perfect opportunity to bring your Newave surfboard (link to the shop) for a truly eco-friendly surf trip.
By following these 10 tips, you will experience a surf trip in Brittany that will not only be a sporting adventure, but also an immersion in a rich and authentic culture.
