Belle Ile
As the name speaks this is a truly beautiful island. A combination of a rugged coastline, attractive fishing villages and white sandy beaches, has made it a magnet for summer tourists. In July and August the population can increase ten-fold, all crammed into 84 sq km. However, even in peak times, it is possible to lose oneself on the island of contrasts. The south-west coast is a true wild land, while the sheltered eastern side can feel positively Mediterranean in spite of its Atlantic location. Photo by: HCLM
The island is famous for more traditional pleasures of any vacation on the Brittany coast; swimming, boating, fishing, cycling and hiking. It also houses a collection of attractive lighthouses, most notably Le Grand Phare on the west coast, La Citadelle Vauban and many more. Photo by: Patrick.Raymond
The island also attract the attentions of the world’s best artists. Inspired by its natural splendour, Monet, Van Gogh and Henri Matisse amongst others produced some of their finest work here. The island is said to have inspired the Op Art movement of the 1950s when the Hungarian-born artist Victor Vasarely visited and was inspired by the atmosphere there. Photo by: HCLM
Belle Ile boasts one of the best hiking routes in Europe. The spectacular 95 km coastal path takes about a week to complete and there are walkers’ hostels and campsites en route. Photo by: Olivier Cochard-Labbé
When to go: Spring and autumn are less busy. Population: 5,250. How to get there: By ferry from Quiberon (year-round) or from Vannes ( summer only).
