Emblematic places to visit in Côtes-d'Armor

The Côtes-d'Armor: Between Seaside Resorts, Medieval Towns, and Fishing Ports

There you go, your vacation is planned, and this year you're heading to Brittany! A beautiful region that will take you straight to the Côtes-d'Armor. This ideally located department is full of must-visit places: the Pink Granite Coast, Saint-Brieuc - the largest city in the region, the island of Bréhat, Paimpol, Dinan, and of course, the Pink Granite Coast. Follow the guide and set out to discover iconic places to visit in the Côtes-d'Armor.

Explore the Pink Granite Coast

The first question that everyone asks is, "Why is the granite pink?" The granite contains iron oxide (hematite) present in the alkali feldspar crystal lattice. And it is precisely this hematite that gives the rock its pink color.

The Pink Granite Coast is considered a unique natural site in the world. Many places are worth exploring:

1.The town of Perros-Guirec

One of the first places to discover is the "favorite village of the French" and former fishing hamlet: Ploumanac'h. Located between the beaches of Trestraou and Saint-Guirec, this village, known worldwide, offers a spectacular sight with its pink granite rocks. They extend over several hectares, and some rocks measure over 20 meters in height!

Perros-Guirec, which means "Pen-Ros" in Breton (the top of the hill), is also an ideal seaside resort for practicing water sports. Sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and longe-côte (coastal walking) – all these activities are offered in nautical centers and allow you to discover the riches of the coast.

Off the coast of the town lies the archipelago of the 7 islands: Rouzic, Malban, Les Costans, Bono, Île-aux-Moines, Île Plate, and Le Cerf. On these islets, there is a nature reserve protecting about thirty bird species. A magical place for all vacationers.

2. The seaside resorts of Trégastel and Trébeurden

The Côtes-d'Armor is a region renowned for its numerous beautiful beaches. Along the coast, you can relax on a dozen fine sandy beaches.

For enthusiasts of walks or experienced hikers, the Customs Officers' Path, also known as GRⓇ34, starts from Mont Saint-Michel and goes to Saint-Nazaire. Over 2,000 km of paths to explore, with stunning views of wild coastlines, rocky points, dunes, and other beaches. Each location reveals new colors! A historic and natural route that has made it a favorite trail for the French.

Did you know?

Trébeurden is the most hidden seaside resort in the Côtes-d'Armor.

3. The town of Pleubian

This small town with over 2,300 inhabitants (2015 INSEE data) is one of the natural treasures of the Pink Granite Coast. This site is a must-visit, both for its beauty and its historical heritage.

On the Pleubian headland lies the "Sillon de Talbert," a peninsula between sand and pebbles where curious visitors can spot multiple birds. A magical walk along the water. And if that doesn't pique your curiosity, know that this 3 km long sea advancement is unique in Europe within a protected area, a Natura 2000 reserve.

In the town center, there are historical sites to visit: Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer church, the Héaux lighthouse, and the Creac'h Maoût semaphore.

Explore the island of Bréhat

To reach the "Island of Flowers," you need to take a ferry from the town of Ploubazlanec. Once there, a carnival of colors awaits you! The microclimate caused by the Gulf Stream benefits the numerous flower varieties: exotic plants like jasmine, palm trees, fig trees, and passionflowers, as well as flowers such as hydrangeas, aloes, mimosa, etc.

This archipelago consists of 86 islets and was the first natural site classified in France in July 1907. Bréhat is located not far from the fishing port of Paimpol and is considered the most beautiful island in Brittany. Here are some visits to make:

• The Phare de Paon (Peacock Lighthouse)
• The glassworks of Bréhat
• The tidal mill of Birlot
• The saltwater pond of Lenn
• The Vauban bridge
  

Stroll through the towns of Paimpol & Dinan

For three centuries, "La Grande Pêche" (the Great Fishing) took place, during which sailors set off for long months to fish for cod. This is what allowed Paimpol to become the first offshore fishing port in France.

In the city center, you will still be surprised today by the majestic shipowners' houses that remind us daily of a part of Paimpol's history.

On foot or by bike, let yourself be carried away by this little paradise and take a stroll to discover the Abbey of Beauport. Throughout the year, this place hosts exhibitions and events for both children and adults. Continue your journey to the Moulin de Craca, where you'll find a bed of hydrangeas. Finally, the oyster beds are a must-visit in the region.

Dinan is one of the iconic places to visit in the Côtes-d'Armor. This medieval Breton town, known for its half-timbered houses, charms artists who have turned it into an art city.

This historic town is protected by kilometers of ramparts. The Château de Dinan is THE monument to visit, an essential part of the city. But don't leave without passing through the Rue de Jerzual, where artist workshops and half-timbered houses will pique your curiosity.

Saint-Brieuc, the largest city in the Côtes-d'Armor

If you follow the Customs Officers' Path, the famous GRⓇ34, you will inevitably pass through Saint-Brieuc, this medieval city steeped in history.

• The Saint-Étienne Cathedral is one of the few fortified churches in Brittany. When you enter this sublime place, you'll discover a 16th-century organ classified as a historical monument.
• Ancient squares and historical houses succeed each other in the city, much to the delight of the inhabitants. These half-timbered houses are typical of the region, and some are even classified as historical monuments!
• The Plouha cliffs and the Gwin Zegal harbor are two incredible places that you must visit! They are part of the Bay of Saint-Brieuc.
• The Maison de la Baie is a museum designed as a route through 7 different spaces to raise awareness among visitors about the natural and underwater environment that needs to be preserved. 

Did you know?

The Bay of Saint-Brieuc is the closest beach to Paris, only 2 hours and 13 minutes away.

The Côtes-d'Armor is one of the iconic sites to explore if you love history and nature. Through the various fishing ports like Paimpol, seaside resorts, or medieval towns such as Dinan, you will be amazed by this Breton region.