Les Glenans - Discover the Glenan Archipelago
Les Glenans - Archipelago of the Glenan Islands in Fouesnant, Finistère Discover this heavenly place, and escape for a few hours from the hustle and bustle of the mainland.
Where is the Glénans archipelago?
The Glenans - l'archipel - is located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Brittany, in the southern Brittany department of Finistère. It is part of the commune of Fouesnant.
How many islets are there in the Glenans archipelago?
The Glénan archipelago comprises seven islets surrounding an 'inland sea'. According to Wikipedia, the Glénan archipelago comprises nine main islands and numerous islets.
Here's a list of the main islands:
Île Saint-Nicolas
Bananec Island
Loc'h Island
Penfret Island
Stork Island
Drénec Island
Brunec Island
Guiautec Island
Quignénec Island
Guiriden Island
The Glenans - What to see on this paradise archipelago?
You don't have to go far to feel like you're in the tropics. Just go to the Glenans it's a unique and unspoilt place!
The first thing to notice is the color of the water and the fine sand. The water is translucent and turquoise, and it's possible to see sandy or rocky bottoms, as well as fish. You can visit the main islands and admire the natural surroundings.
How to get to Les Glénans
In season, the easiest way is to take a round trip on one of the boats shuttling between the mainland and the Glenans. In high season, and especially from April to September, you can get to the Glenans by taking a ticket on one of the shuttles departing from Port-La-Forêt, Fouesnant (at the Beg Meil slipway), Bénodet, Concarneau, Loctudy, and also Trévignon.
Of course, if you've got a coastal boating license, you can also rent a boat for the day, and make your own way around the archipelago, visiting the islands or enjoying the heavenly beaches.
Where to park to visit the Glenans?
It all depends on which port you leave from. Refer to the websites of the shipping companies concerned, which will tell you the best way to park to visit the Glénan.
Les Glénans - Archipelago of the Glénans islands in Fouesnant in Finistère, Things to do
Here is a non-exhaustive list of things to do in Les Glénan.
Strolling along islets and rocks
Many visitors come to the Glenans to enjoy moments of peace and quiet.. If you land on Saint Nicolas Island, you can walk either along the coastal path or off it to discover the paradise-like scenery.
Drinks overlooking the 'inland sea
On Ile Saint Nicolas, you can enjoy a drink overlooking the "inland sea" and the dock used by shuttle buses and passing boats. the ocean. Take time to observe the regular passage of boats and visitors.
Swimming in the Glenans
When it comes to swimming in Les Glénans, you're spoilt for choice: On Saint Nicolas Island, you can easily access Glénan-Bannanec beachwhich is very close to Bannanec Island. At low tide, it's possible to cross over and swim on the beaches of Ile Bannanec. You can also swim on the beach facing the ocean, Plage de Saint Nicolas.
On the island of BannanecWith easy access at low tide, two magnificent beaches await you. It's easy to dock with a rental boat or small sailboat.
On the island of PenfretThere's also a long beach facing the inland sea, and a smaller beach for swimming.
Finally, if you've hired a boat, you can of course take a break in the middle of the 'inland sea', and dive into the turquoise water.
All these beaches have translucent waters and fine sand, ideal for families.
Go fishing
The Glenans - The archipelago - located in the commune of Fouesnant in southern Finistère - is a popular spot for fishing, whether on the way to and from the mainland, around the archipelago, or in the 'inland sea'. Just be careful not to get too close to the traps and nets.
Birdwatching and nature
The Glénan archipelago is also a listed and protected site, ideal for relaxing and observing nature. You may even spot a flower that is unique in the world!
Eating lobster at Saint Nicholas
Saint Nicolas is quite lively in season, and you'll find a restaurant serving freshly cooked lobster. Take a seat on the terrace, and enjoy a lobster in sauce... in season, reservations are essential!
A sailing course in Les Glénan
The Glénans archipelago is a well-known venue for sailing courses, training and introductory courses. You'll find something to suit beginners and experienced sailors alike. Don't hesitate to get in touch on the Internet.
Of course, this list is by no means exhaustive: the Glénan archipelago is a unique place where it's customary to discover something new every time you visit. Take Fort Cigogne, for example.
History of the Glenans
The Glénan archipelago has long been a haven for pirates. They would seek refuge in the archipelago, then attack merchant ships passing close by or attempting to reach the mainland.
It wasn't until the 18th century, on the recommendation of Emmanuel-Armand de Vignerot du Plessis, the new governor of Brittany, that the construction of Fort Cigogne was envisaged to prevent pirates or privateers from returning to the archipelago. Construction was no easy task.
In the 19th century, fish dryers were established, and economic activity spread throughout the archipelago.
What to do near Les Glénans - Archipelago of the Glénan Islands in Fouesnant, Finistère?
Thatched cottage villages - Kercanic
The thatched cottage village of Kercanic is located in the commune of Névez, between the villages of Raguénez, the locality of Célan and the Dourveil beachjust a few kilometers from Trevignon.
The town of Névez
The town of Névez is famous for its fine sandy beaches and unspoilt blue waters. It's ideally situated between Trégunc and Pont-Aven.
Port Manech
Port Manech is a village in the commune of Névez, at the mouth of the river Aven.
Archipelago of the Glénan Islands in Fouesnant, Finistère
Fouesnant - Les Glénans is Finistère's leading seaside resort on the Atlantic coast. It lies between the towns of Concarneau and Bénodet.
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