dossier

Bays of Brittany Cycling

Day 1: Arrive in Lababan
Time perhaps to explore the long sandy beach at Penhors before apéritifs on the hotel terrace followed by dinner.

Day 2: Lababan to Audierne (23km/18mi)
It's fantastically easy cycling as you follow the natural curve of the coast, the emerald seas of the Atlantic ocean as your backdrop. Pretty whitewashed houses stand dotted above hidden rocky coves, and there are lots of places to pop down to the sands for a quick paddle or snooze in the sun! Lunch perhaps at the little bar in the pretty room at Poulhan, or take a picnic to the beach. After a short, gentle climb (just head for the church steeple!) to Plouhinec, it's a lovely downhill cycle along the quiet country lanes all the way to Audierne.

Day 3: At Audierne
Situated on the Cap Sizun, Audierne boasts a very charming fishing port and some lovely white sandy beaches. Visit the old quarter - lovely architecture, C12 church, cobbled streets - or, perhaps, the local aquarium (over 200 different species of fish). You can take a boat from here too to the picturesque island of Ile de Sein, just off the famous Pointe de Raz. This tiny, low-lying island was once home to shipwreck looters, although today fishing remains the main source of income.

Day 4: Audierne to Tréboul  (20km/12mi)
Today’s route takes you along the picturesque River Goyen and then on to the pretty village of Pont Croix where you’ll want to spend some time exploring its mediaeval streets crammed with lovely white houses. It has inspired artists - including Matisse - over the centuries, and today there are plenty of painters, sculptures, potters and other craftsmen in the town. It’s then on along narrow country lanes back towards the coast and the colourful fishing port of Douarnenez, nestled in its pretty curved bay. Visit the superb port and boat museums – outstanding collections of fishing, transport and pleasure boats from all over the world – or just pedal around the harbour and take in the sights and smells that have attracted artists (Renoir painted here) and photographers for many years.

Day 5: At Tréboul
Your lovely hotel here is just a couple of minutes walk from the seafront, so you may choose just to find your own private cove and relax today. It is worth wandering down to the bay of the Port de Plaisance – over 700 yachts are housed here, and many regattas and nautical events are held throughout the summer months. It’s just 40 mins on the bus to Quimper from here too. Or you can For departure dates, cycle to Locronan with its renaissance granite houses, artists’ museum and interesting Breton museum. The village is an important Druid site and boasts an exceptional architectural mix. It was used as the prices and travel setting for Polanski’s “Tess”.

Day 6: Tréboul to Lababan  (24km/14mi)
It’s your final day’s cycling and you’re more likely to meet a tractor than a car as you wind through the Goyen river valley! You can’t come to this part of the country without sampling the local cider (and apple juices), so we suggest you stop off at the famous Kerne cidrerienear Pouldreuzic. Lots of tasting opportunities – and don’t forget, we can collect your purchases for you.

Day 7: Leave Lababan