Discover our selection for a successful winter stay at Naéco Hostels in southern Brittany.
Winter in Southern Brittany is a bit like a well-kept secret. The beaches are deserted, the light is soft, the landscapes take on a new dimension, and the activities adapt to the season to offer unique moments.
If you stay at Naéco Hostels, whether in Audierne, Le Pouldu or Erdeven, you will be spoiled for choice to enjoy the Breton winter in all its splendour.
Here is a fun guide to discover what you can do during a winter in Southern Brittany.
1. Explore the wilderness trails, from a different perspective
Winter is the perfect time to rediscover the hiking trails without meeting anyone on the horizon, and with weather that is often milder than you think!
The famous customs officers' path (GR34),, which runs along the entire Breton coast, is a real invitation to walk in winter.
Audierne and the GR34: a classic in the winter light
In Audierne, let yourself be surprised by the cliffs of Cap Sizun and the breathtaking views of the sea. The waves crashing against the rocks, the golden light of the sun.
Le Pouldu and the Laïta River: peaceful nature and serenity
If you are looking for a quieter walk, head for Le Pouldu. The walk along the Laïta transports you to a peaceful setting, between forests and rivers.
Erdeven and the wild dunes
The dunes of Erdeven, on the other hand, are perfect for those who love the great outdoors. In winter, the beaches of Kerhillio are almost deserted and the dunes offer a breathtaking feeling of immensity. It's the perfect place for a meditative walk or just to breathe in some fresh air.
· Naéco winter tip: To make your hikes even more memorable, try a guided night outing under the stars. Winter often offers clear skies, ideal for observing the constellations, far from light pollution.
2. Winter water sports: for the more adventurous!
Winter does not mean the end of water sports in Southern Brittany, quite the contrary! The spots are less crowded and the conditions can be incredibly good, especially for thrill-seekers.
Winter surfing in Audierne or Le Pouldu
In Audierne, the Baie des Trépassés is a popular surfing spot in winter. The waves are there, and with a good wetsuit, you won't even be afraid of the cold water. In Le Pouldu, you are 50m from the surf spot, and that's the foot !
Kite-surfing in Erdeven
On the Erdeven side, Kerhillio beach is a kitesurfer's paradise, even in winter. The powerful winds are perfect for soaring over the ocean, with awe-inspiring scenery as a backdrop. If you are a novice, why not take advantage of an initiation? Naéco can direct you to the right local kite schools.
· Naéco winter tip: After a surfing or kiting session, warm up by the fire in our hostels, after a good hot shower. The contrast between the cold ocean water and the warm water is incredible and perfect for relaxing your muscles!
3. Art and culture, even in winter
Winter is also a good time to immerse yourself in Breton culture, without the summer crowds.
In the footsteps of Gauguin in Le Pouldu
Le Pouldu is a village where art and history meet. It was here that Paul Gauguin found his inspiration at the end of the 19th century. Take a tour of the Maison-Musée du Pouldu, a charming place that retraces the painter's passage in Brittany, and let yourself be inspired by the landscapes he immortalized.
Discovering the megaliths in Erdeven
If you are more into history and mysteries, discover the alignments of menhirs from Kerzerho to Erdeven. In winter, these thousand-year-old monuments, surrounded by mist, exude a particularly mystical atmosphere.
4. Relaxation and well-being: Breton cocooning
Cosy around the fire
Winter is also the season for cosy evenings. At Naéco, whether in Audierne, Le Pouldu or Erdeven, take advantage of the warm common areas to relax around a good fireplace, with a hot tea or a glass of Breton cider in hand.
Yoga session
Winter in Brittany is a good time to reconnect with yourself in warm environments, whether during a yoga session, during a wellness retreat or by combining yoga with other gentle and relaxing practices such as meditation. Treat yourself to a yoga or meditation session at Naéco and take a breather.
5. Local markets and festivities
Winter in Southern Brittany is not lacking in charm, especially with its local markets and events.
Going to the Christmas markets
In Quimper, Lorient or Vannes or even in smaller villages such as Erdeven, the Christmas markets come alive with stalls selling local crafts and local products: oysters, pancakes, kouign-amann, cider... Everything is there for a gourmet and festive break! The must-sees : Locronan (Finistère) and Rochefort-en-Terre (Morbihan).
Visit local markets
The Breton winter markets are also the perfect opportunity to discover artisanal products and taste the specialties of the region. You can take home gourmet souvenirs, such as salted butter caramel or far breton, and extend the experience after your stay.
Far from the summer crowds, winter in Southern Brittany is a magical season where nature, culture and traditions are revealed in a new light. Whether you are in Audierne, Le Pouldu or Erdeven, Naéco Hostels offers you a multitude of activities to make the most of this time of year.
Between wild hikes, water sports, cultural discoveries and moments of relaxation, your winter stay will be punctuated by unique and unforgettable experiences.
Remember to ask about our winter closure dates. Privatization remains possible in winter, to gather with friends, colleagues or family !
So, are you ready to live the Breton winter with Naéco?