Getting to l'ile aux Moines - crossing guide and tips
Looking for a beautiful escape in Brittany ? Set course for Ile aux Moines, a jewel in the Gulf of Morbihan. This haven of peace offers you an unspoilt natural setting, ideal for admiring breathtaking scenery, discovering a rich heritage and savoring the surrounding tranquility. How to get to l'ile aux MoinesWhat are the transport options, timetables and costs, and are there any practical tips?
Whether you're looking for serenity, relaxation, cultural richness or adventure, Île aux Moines promises to make your getaway sublime and memorable.
We'll show you how to plan your crossing to Ile aux Moines and make the most of your stay on the island. this pearl of Morbihan. Follow our guide to flawless travel preparation.
Plan your crossing to Île aux Moines
Ile aux Moines is accessible from several departure points along the Gulf of Morbihan. The main departure point is the port of Port-Blanc in Baden. This offers quick access to the island, in just 5 minutes by boat. Another option is the port of Larmor-Baden, located in Pen Lannic, from where narrated 20-minute crossings depart. For a different experience, you can also choose the cale de Kerners, on the Rhuys peninsula, via the company Le Passeur des Îles.
Choosing the right boat company
The crossing to Île aux Moines is operated by three main boat companies: Izenah Croisières, Le Passeur des Îles, and Les Vedettes Angélus. Each company offers a variety of options to suit your preferences and requirements.
To help you choose, here's a comparison chart:
| Company | Departure point | Duration of crossing | Timetable | Fares | Reservations |
- | Izenah Croisières | Port-Blanc (Baden) or Pen Lannic (Larmor-Baden) | 5 min or 20 min | Every 15 or 30 min, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (depending on season) | €6.40 (adult) / €4 (child) / €5 (bicycle) | On site or by email (for groups) |
- | Le Passeur des Îles | Cale de Kerners (Rhuys) | 15 min | Sunday to Friday, 9:30am to 5:15pm (April to September) | €15 (adult) / €9 (child) / €5 (bicycle) | On site or online
- | Les Vedettes Angélus | Port-Navalo (Arzon) | 45 min | According to tide calendar | 18 € (adult) / 12 € (child) / 5 € (bicycle) | On-site or online |
Opening times and prices: Book in advance or on site?
Schedules and fares for crossings to Ile aux Moines vary according to the company chosen, the departure point, the season and the tide phases. We advise you to check the websites of the companies or the Morbihan [tourist office] beforehand.
See also the [schedules] and [fares] of Izenah Croisières, frequently used by visitors and island residents alike. Although booking is not essential for individuals, it is necessary for groups of more than 15 people. Tickets can be purchased directly on site or on the boat (outside high season). However, to take advantage of special rates or to secure your place, online booking is recommended, especially in summer and at weekends.
Le Passeur des Îles and Les Vedettes Angélus allow online booking, while Izenah Croisières offers this option by e-mail for groups.
Tips for a pleasant and economical crossing
Do you dream of discovering Ile aux Moines without spending a fortune or suffering the stress of travel? Here are a few practical tips to make your crossing and stay on this dream island as pleasant and economical as possible.
Tips for smart travel with City Pass Golfe du Morbihan Vannes
The City Pass Golfe du Morbihan Vannes, a must-have tourist passport, opens the doors to 30 major attractions in Vannes and the Golfe du Morbihan, including the crossing to the Ile aux Moines. It also offers you over 30 discounts and privileges at pass partners, plus unlimited access to the Kicéo bus network.
Available in 24h, 48h or 72h formulas, this pass is activated the first time it is used in one of the activities on offer, so it adapts perfectly to the duration of your stay.
The City Pass can be purchased online, at tourist information points, or from affiliated retailers. It's a great way to save money on visits and travel while enjoying the wonders of the region.
The best times to cross: avoid the crowds
A popular destination, especially in summer, Ile aux Moines experiences peak periods. To avoid the long queues and overcrowded boats, choose less busy times. Generally speaking, it's best to avoid peak times, especially in the mornings between 9 and 11 a.m. and in the evenings between 5 and 7 p.m.
If possible, opt for a weekday visit instead of a weekend, and choose the months of June or September rather than July and August. Booking your crossing online can also guarantee your place on board, and save you the wait at the ticket office.
The programs and rates of the various marine operators are available on their websites or on the tourist office website.
Going to l'ile aux moines - What to do in case of bad weather?
Even when the weather in Brittany is fickle, Ile aux Moines is full of activities. Come rain or shine, why not visit the island's museum, which offers a fascinating insight into local history and traditions through a variety of exhibits? The island's crêperies and cafés will also give you a warm welcome, allowing you to savor regional specialties while you warm up. And weather permitting, be sure to explore the coastal paths on foot or by bike, for magnificent views over the Gulf of Morbihan.
The weather forecast for île aux Moines can be consulted on the Météo France or La Chaîne Météo websites.
Discover Île aux Moines on site
Once you arrive on Île aux Moines, there are a variety of ways to explore its hidden wonders. Here are some essential tips to maximize your experience on this island Eden.
Getting around the island: bike, foot or shuttle?
Île aux Moines is car-free, preserving its ambient calm. Walking its coastal and inland paths is ideal for appreciating the richness of its landscapes, biodiversity and historical and cultural sites.
Hiking enthusiasts can follow the GR34, a 17 km trail around the island.
Bicycles, which can be rented on arrival at the port, are perfect for a quick discovery while enjoying the fresh air. Pay particular attention to traffic regulations, especially in pedestrian zones.
The electric shuttle, which runs from June to September, is a great way to get from one part of the island to another.
Highlights: beaches, historic sites and nature trails
Île aux Moines offers a multitude of fascinating sites for relaxation, culture and wonder:
- The beaches: with a dozen dazzling beaches, you'll be spoilt for choice for swimming, paddling, kayaking, or simply contemplating the Gulf of Morbihan. The beaches of Port-Blanc, Kerlimelas and Kergonan are well worth a special visit.
- Historic sites: discover a rich heritage dating back to prehistoric times, with dolmens, menhirs, the 17th-century church of Saint-Michel, and the Berno tide mill, a listed historic monument.
- Nature trails: stroll through the Bois d'Amour, observe the flora and fauna at the Pointe du Nioul, or admire the flower gardens lining the island's typical houses.
Tips for peaceful, environmentally-friendly exploration
For a pleasant stay on Île aux Moines, follow these recommendations:
- Respect the environment: Île aux Moines, a Natura 2000 site, is home to a rich biodiversity. Avoid picking flowers, collecting shells, damaging nature or leaving litter.
- Respect the locals: with around 600 permanent residents, please be courteous and do not disturb the local peace and quiet. Don't cross private property boundaries, and ask permission before taking photos.
- Respect the schedule: the island has a different rhythm. Take the time to live each moment to the full, while keeping up to date with shuttle boat schedules and restaurant openings.
Going to l'ile aux Moines - Conclusion
A visit to L'ile aux Moines is an idyllic destination for anyone with a passion for nature, culture and the quest for serenity. Whatever the length of your visit - a day, a weekend or an entire week - you'll always find something to marvel at on this captivating island, brimming with charms and discoveries. For the best possible experience, please do not hesitate to follow our recommendations: plan your trip in advance, select the right means of transport, explore the island's must-see attractions, while taking care to preserve the beauty of its natural environment.
Don't delay, plan your getaway to Ile aux Moines, this jewel nestled in the heart of the Gulf of Morbihan, now!
FAQ
Where to take the boat to Île-aux-Moines?
To get to Île-aux-Moines, several departure points are available, depending on your choice of shipping company. Here are a few options:
- From Locmariaquer : Choose the Navix company, offering cruises on the Gulf of Morbihan with a stopover on Île-aux-Moines. You'll find the ticket office near the port, between the crêperie des ILES and the L'ESCALE hotel, opposite the pier. The landing stage is 800 m away on the cale du Guilvin.
- From Baden : Izenah Croisières offers shuttles to Île-aux-Moines from Port-Blanc, departing every 30 minutes for a 5-minute crossing.
- From Vannes or Séné : Bateaux-Bus du Golfe offers a daily service all year round, with a journey time of 20 to 30 minutes. Departure points are the Vannes ferry terminal and the Barrarac'h slipway in Séné.
How do I get to Île-aux-Moines?
To get to Ile Aux Moines, go to Port-Blanc, Baden, and take a shuttle with Izenah Croisières. Regular crossings are organized throughout the year, with increased frequency in summer.
How do I get to Île-aux-Moines by car?
To reach the island by car, follow the N165 to Vannes, then head for Port-Blanc, where you'll find the landing stage. Access to the island by car requires special authorization from the town hall, so plan to park your vehicle in the parking lot before taking the boat.
What's the most beautiful part of Île-aux-Moines?
The appeal of Île-aux-Moines varies according to individual preferences. Here are two suggestions:
- For beach lovers: The west coast of the island is ideal, with Gored and Rudel beaches surrounded by pine trees and rocks.
- For lovers of wild landscapes: The Pointe du Trec'h to the north offers panoramic views over the Gulf of Morbihan and the island of Holâvre, not forgetting the cromlec'h de Kergonan, a remarkable megalithic monument.
