From Pointe de Kerpenhir to Pointe er Hourél

The car park at Pointe de Kerpenhir is quite large and very convenient for starting this walk. During the peak tourist season, from mid-July to mid-August, it can be full!

(S/E) From the car park, head towards the nearby Pointe de Kerpenhir to admire the entrance to the Gulf of Morbihan, with the town of Arzon opposite. The site features a map to help you identify the islands and coastal features. Note the strong sea current between the two ends of the gulf. Continue westwards along the coastal path, following the Route des Plages. The path is marked GR®34 in white and red, but you simply need to follow the coastline. The path is very clearly visible. It is also possible to walk along the beach.

(1) Continue to the end of Locmariaquer Beach, to the site of the Dolmen des Pierres Plates, a beautiful covered walkway with an information panel.

(2) Go round the headland and continue north-west along the beach to the Toul Keun car park.

(3) Cross the car park and join the path that continues north-west to the junction of two tracks.

(4) At this junction, turn left towards Brennegi and reach a dam separating the marshes from the ocean. You can usually spot plenty of birds here. The reservoir has been renovated and can be crossed on foot.

(5) Turn left to go round the manor house. The path is very well signposted. You will reach Pointe er Hourél without difficulty by following the coastline. Here too, you can walk along the beach instead. The Pointe site, characterised by its small pine forest, is fragile. You should therefore stay on the marked paths. Here you can admire the Dolmen d’er Hourél, forming a small circle of standing stones.

(6) Once you reach the headland, turn back and follow the path in the opposite direction, with the option of walking along the beaches. Please be mindful, however, of protected areas, particularly during the breeding season of the Kentish plover. You will arrive at the Kerpenhir car park (S/E).

(1) Toilets.

The walk is very easy and can be done in ordinary trainers, except during the rainy season when some sections are very muddy. Bring water as we did not see any refreshment points, apart from the public toilets on the main beach at Locmariaquer (1).

This walk can be done all year round. Do, however, take care in the event of high tides or rough seas. After heavy rain, particularly in winter, some sections are muddy. In summer, particularly from mid-July to mid-August, the path and beaches can be very busy. There are few shaded areas.

The walk takes you past a succession of beautiful beaches. You can therefore go for a swim almost anywhere, weather and sea conditions permitting!
At several points along the way, there are information boards providing details about the nature of the coastline, as well as the two megalithic sites.
Take your time to admire the scenery, particularly the light at sunrise and sunset!