A Natural Jewel in Southern Brittany: The Gâvres Dunar Massif in Quiberon which extends over 35km in Morbihan.
The Massif Dunaire de Gâvres in Quiberon is a natural wonder located on the Breton coast, offering an exceptional 35 km long panorama that stretches from the Gâvres peninsula to the Quiberon peninsula. This vast set of dunes, one of the most impressive in Europe, is much more than just a coastal landscape: it represents a place of unique biodiversity, a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and a privileged spot for water sports enthusiasts.
The Gâvres Dunar Massif in Quiberon is classified as a Natura 2000 site, a recognition that underlines its ecological importance and the richness of its biodiversity. This classification aims to protect remarkable natural habitats and the species that live there. This Breton dune massif is made up of a mosaic of natural environments, including dunes, meadows, moors, marshes and wetlands. These ecosystems are home to many rare plant and animal species, such as migratory birds and some endemic plants adapted to sandy environments.
The preservation of this space is a priority, as it is a natural bulwark against marine erosion and plays a crucial role in the ecological balance of the region. For visitors, this means respecting the marked trails and contributing to the protection of this fragile environment.
The Gâvres dune massif in Quiberon is particularly well suited to walks by the sea, whether on foot or by bike. Along its 35 km, coastal paths allow you to explore varied landscapes: dunes, fine sandy beaches, wetlands, and rocky cliffs follow one another. The ride offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the offshore islands such as Belle-Île-en-Mer, the Île de Groix and Houat.
For hikers, the customs officers' path (GR 34) runs along the coast and allows you to discover unspoilt portions of the coastline. Through this route, walkers can appreciate the diversity of fauna and flora while letting themselves be carried away by the sea breeze. The hike can start in Gâvres, a charming fishing village, then pass through Plouhinec, Erdeven, and finally reach the Quiberon peninsula.
On the road, remarkable spots await walkers such as the beach of Kerminihy in Plouhinec, a wild natural area, or the menhirs of Kerzerho in Erdeven, historical witnesses of a fascinating megalithic past. Each portion of the walk reveals a new facet of the dune massif, combining the softness of the Breton landscapes with the power of the ocean.
For cyclists, a well-developed network of cycle paths also runs along this coastal strip. The greenway between Erdeven and Plouharnel, for example, is a pleasant and safe option for exploring the region by bike. This is a portion of the Véloroute n°5 which goes from Étel to Quiberon. It is a route accessible to all, offering breaks by the sea, with beaches conducive to relaxation and ideal viewpoints to take magnificent photos. Admire the dune massif during your walk!
Exploring by bike also allows you to discover small picturesque villages and historical sites scattered along the route. It's an ideal way to combine sport, nature and culture in a single day.
The Massif Dunaire de Gâvres in Quiberon is much more than just a coastal landscape, it is a true paradise for surfers. With its long sandy beaches, its unspoilt dunes, and often perfect swell conditions, this coastline is an exceptional playground for all surf enthusiasts, whether beginners or experienced. The various spots along the coast offer a wide variety of waves and experiences, attracting surfers from all over Brittany, France and even elsewhere in Europe.
Kervégant beach in Plouhinec is one of the most popular places for beginners and surfers looking for gentler waves. This spot, often spared by big swells, offers regular and not very powerful waves, ideal for the first steps in the world of surfing. Many local surf schools offer courses and courses adapted to all levels. Supervised by experienced instructors, novice surfers can quickly learn to stand on their board and apprehend the waves in complete safety.
Kervégant beach is also a pleasant place to relax, even for those who do not surf. You can watch the surfers while enjoying the natural beauty of this unspoiled area, where the surrounding dunes and woods add a special charm to the coast.
Further west, Erdeven is a must-see for experienced surfers. Kerhillio Beach, which is several kilometers long, is known for its powerful and constant waves, which are a delight for experienced surfers. Here, the Atlantic swell combines with often ideal conditions, especially during rising tides, creating waves perfect for memorable sessions. Kerhilia's waves are particularly long, allowing for smooth and prolonged rides, which are very popular with experienced surfers.
In addition to classic surfing, Kerhillio beach is a hotspot for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The wind blows regularly, and fans of aerial sliding sports find it an ideal terrain to embark on spectacular manoeuvres. The beach is large enough for surfers, kitesurfers and windsurfers to coexist without difficulty, each with its own space to enjoy the elements.
Continuing south, the beaches of Plouharnel and Saint-Pierre-Quiberon gradually become more famous for their powerful waves and spectacular scenery. Plouharnel is considered one of the best surfing spots in Brittany. The beach of Sainte-Barbe, for example, is particularly popular with surfers for its powerful and hollow waves, ideal for experienced surfers who want to push their limits. This spot is also renowned for its variety of waves, which offer different conditions depending on the tide and swell, thus satisfying surfers of various levels.
The nearby Mané Gwen beach is another popular spot, especially for those who love longboards. The waves are long and allow for extended rides, perfect for those looking for a smooth gliding experience.
A few kilometers away, the wild coast of Quiberon offers even more impressive spots, reserved for the most experienced surfers. Saint-Pierre-Quiberon is famous for its demanding and powerful waves, it offers spectacular surfing conditions, with powerful waves that attract high-level surfers looking for thrills. The waves are fast, sometimes breaking near the rocks, which requires a certain level of technique and caution.
This part of the coast, although spectacular, is also more exposed to natural hazards.
After a day of intense surfing along the Massif Dunaire, you will need some rest. For this, Naéco Erdeven is the perfect place. This eco-responsible accommodation, located a few minutes from the best surf spots in the region, offers an ideal setting for board sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. Designed with the environment in mind, Naéco offers comfortable rooms and warm common areas, where you can share your surfing experiences with other enthusiasts.
In addition, its proximity to the beaches of Kerhillio and the cycle paths allows you to fully enjoy outdoor activities without the need for a car, thus contributing to the preservation of this exceptional natural environment.
Whether you're here for a morning surf session, a bike ride along the dunes or just relaxing by the sea, Naéco Erdeven offers you a perfect base from which to explore the rugged beauty of the Breton coast and the Massif dune from Gâvres to Quiberon.
