Hiking bed & breakfasts in Finistère

Finistère, a walker's playground

With more than 1,200 kilometres of coastline, Finistère is probably the most hiking-focused department in France. The famous GR34, known as the "customs officers' path", alone unfolds over 500 kilometres of coast, from the Mont-Saint-Michel bay to the Quiberon bay — but Finistère holds the most spectacular portion. Add the inland trails of the Monts d'Arrée and Menez-Hom, plus the crossings of the Crozon and Cap Sizun peninsulas.

Walkers find a rare diversity here: cliffs, heathlands, peat bogs, empty beaches, fishing harbours. The weather shifts quickly, and so does the light — which is precisely the visual signature of hiking in this part of Brittany.

The four main hiking grounds

The Crozon peninsula

Considered one of the most beautiful stretches of the GR34. Pointe de Pen-Hir with its Tas de Pois, the Île Vierge beach, Pointe de Dinan — rugged, dramatic landscapes. Plan 4 to 5 days for a full loop.

Pointe du Raz and Cap Sizun

One of Brittany's symbols, listed as a Grand Site de France. The trail overlooks the Atlantic from nearly 70 metres up. Just next door, Pointe du Van is often quieter and just as striking.

The Monts d'Arrée

The inland heart of Finistère, with heather moors and old peat bogs. Highest point: Roc'h Ruz at 385 metres — modest by altitude but offering sea views on a clear day. A good change of scenery after days on the coast.

Morlaix bay and the Léon country

More intricate coastline, small estuaries, châteaux and abbeys. Less busy than Crozon or the Raz, ideal for a shoulder-season hike.

Nearby: enriching the hike

Finistère does not lend itself to single-minded hiking. Between two stages, three complementary experiences deserve a detour:

• Océanopolis in Brest, an ocean discovery park, excellent on a rainy day for learning about the sea without walking through it.
• The Léon parish enclosures (Saint-Thégonnec, Guimiliau, Lampaul-Guimiliau), religious architectural ensembles from the 16th and 17th centuries, unique in the world.
• The nearby islands: Ouessant, Molène, Sein, Glénan, reachable by ferry from Brest, Audierne or Concarneau for an extra day or night.

Practical: preparing a hike in Finistère

A few golden rules:

• The weather changes fast: always carry a waterproof layer, even in summer. Bright morning sun does not rule out an afternoon shower.
• Tide schedules shape certain parts of the GR34, especially around estuaries. Check before leaving and ask your hosts.
• The wind can be very strong on exposed headlands (Raz, Van, Pen-Hir). Keep a safe distance from cliff edges: some sections are no longer secured at the end of the season.
• Minimum gear: high-cut hiking shoes, poles for rocky descents, a 1.5 L water bottle at least — resupply points can be sparse.

Choosing a base

Finistère splits into several zones depending on the style of hike you want:

• Crozon and Camaret: ideal base for 3-5 days of spectacular coastal walking
• Douarnenez: quick access to Cap Sizun and the Pays Bigouden
• Huelgoat or Sizun: full immersion in the Monts d'Arrée
• Morlaix: gentler northern coast, combinable with religious heritage

Many hiking-friendly bed & breakfasts will pick you up at the train station at the start or end of a stay, and will store gear or luggage between itinerant stages.