The Strides of Erdeven
A traditional running race through the beautiful coastal landscapes near Erdeven for all ages.
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Plouhinec
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ℹ️Practical info — Plouhinec
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🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- The Ria d'Étel is best explored at high tide for kayaking or boat trips.
- Be aware of the strong tidal currents near the Barre d'Étel when swimming or sailing.
- The local megalithic sites are free to visit and less crowded early in the morning.
- Weather on the Breton coast can change rapidly; always pack a windbreaker even in summer.
🍽 Food
🍽
Galettes and Crêpes
Look for traditional crêperies near the harbor for authentic buckwheat galettes.
🍽
Fresh Oysters
Buy freshly caught oysters directly from the oyster farms along the Ria d'Étel.
🍽
Far Breton
Try this dense, flan-like traditional Breton dessert at any local bakery in the village center.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Breton Cidre
Pick up a bottle of local apple cider from a grocery store or directly from a regional producer.
🛍
Seafood Markets
Visit the weekly markets for fresh fish, crabs, and shellfish straight from the Atlantic.
🧘
Plage de Kérouriec
A sandy, expansive beach well-suited for a peaceful walk outside of the peak summer weeks.
🧘
Banks of Ria d'Étel
Walk along the edges of the estuary to enjoy tranquil views of the water and the small islets.
Water temperature…
Highlights of 2026
10
Architecture Sketches: Icehouse and Boat Shelter
Discover the maritime heritage of Plouhinec through sketching and expert-led guided tours.
Sea Shanties in Plouhinec
An evening of traditional maritime music and authentic Breton songs by the harbor.
Tuna Festival Inauguration Evening
The festive opening of one of the region's most famous culinary and cultural events.
Les Bonites: Rock Talent Showcase
Emerging bands compete in an exciting rock contest on the main stage of the Tuna Festival.
Must-See Sights: Mural for Sailors
Visit the impressive mural dedicated to seafarers in the Notre-Dame-des-Flots church.
Foreshore Discovery and Shore Fishing
A guided nature walk exploring the coastal intertidal zone in Belz to discover local wildlife.
Must-See Sights: Island Chapel in Saint-Cado
Explore the picturesque Saint-Cado chapel located on a charming small island in the Étel river.
Ria Festival - The 5 Bs
A classical music performance featuring works by Bach, Brahms, Bridge, Berg, and Britten.
Concert Through Time (from Huillet to Beethoven)
Embark on a musical journey through the centuries in Plouhinec, featuring works from Huillet to the legendary Beethoven.
Perfectly positioned between the open Atlantic Ocean and the fascinating Ria d'Étel estuary, Plouhinec provides some of the most diverse and unspoiled landscapes in southern Brittany. The commune is famous for the legendary Barre d'Étel, a shifting sandbank at the mouth of the estuary where ocean waves break in a spectacular and dramatic fashion. Miles of pristine, fine-sand beaches like the Plage du Magouëro draw surfers, swimmers, and beachcombers, providing ample space for tranquil seaside relaxation. Inland from the coast, Plouhinec features scenic pine forests and characterful hamlets characterized by traditional Breton stone cottages. An extensive network of hiking and cycling paths allows visitors to explore the rich birdlife of the lagoon and discover ancient, photogenic tide mills. After an active day breathing in the bracing sea air, the nearby harbor restaurants offer the great setting to enjoy exceptionally fresh seafood. Plouhinec beautifully balances the wild energy of the ocean with the serene calm of an inland sea.
- Location: Bretagne, France
- Top sights: Ria d'Étel · Mané-Vechen Gallo-Roman Villa · Gueldro Alignments
- Nearby: Sainte-Hélène (4 km)
- Population: ~5.435
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 10 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 11 |
| Rain mm | 97 | 79 | 64 | 51 | 47 | 45 | 44 | 48 | 39 | 87 | 98 | 99 |
Live webcam – Plouhinec
See what it looks like near Plouhinec right now.
Etel: Étel-La Barre d - live · 5.8 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com
Geography
Facts
- Population: 5,435 inhabitants (2021).
- Land area: 35.58 square kilometers.
- Coastline length: Approximately 9 km on the Atlantic.
- Key landmark: Saint-Guénin Church (16th century).
- Megaliths: Over 50 registered prehistoric monuments.
- Highest elevation: 33 meters above sea level.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
A day in the city
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→17:364.7 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 15–21 €Entries 18€ · Transport 0€
Your morning starts in the heart of Plouhinec, admiring the local church. Next, you will uncover the ancient Menhir dit du Bourg just a short stroll away. The afternoon shifts to the mysterious Gueldro Alignments, rich with Celtic legends. Finally, you'll reach the impressive Dolmen and Pen er Pont stone, finishing a historic trek.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame de Grâce
Admire the intricate stained glass of this central church, a symbol of Plouhinec's heritage, and visit early in the morning to enjoy the quietest moments.
🚶 14'0.54 km
🏛️
10:14 · 80'
Menhir dit du Bourg
Marvel at this towering prehistoric standing stone, a silent witness to ancient Celtic traditions, and bring a wide-angle lens to capture its impressive scale.
🚶 16'0.67 km
🏛️
11:50 · 80'
Gueldro Alignments
Walk alongside these mysterious megalithic rows that reveal Brittany's deep past, and wear sturdy walking shoes as the surrounding terrain can be uneven.
🚶 52'2.44 km
🏛️
14:02 · 80'
Dolmen de Roc'h Kerouaren
Explore this ancient burial chamber to understand Neolithic architecture, and carefully duck your head if you attempt to look closely at the interior stones.
🚶 24'1.03 km
🏛️
15:46 · 80'
Menhir de Pen er Pont
Stand before this isolated megalith that marks an ancient sacred site, and visit during golden hour for the most striking shadows across the rugged granite.
09:00→17:364.7 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 15–21 €Entries 18€ · Transport 0€
Start your rainy walk at the sheltering Église Notre-Dame, offering a dry sanctuary. Midday, navigate the wet paths to the Menhir dit du Bourg and Gueldro Alignments, stepping carefully on muddy ground. The Dolmen provides a moody, damp backdrop in the afternoon. Finish your wet hike at Pen er Pont and head indoors to warm up.
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⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame de Grâce
Admire the beautiful stained glass while staying perfectly dry inside; leave wet umbrellas in the porch area to protect the historic sanctuary floor.
🚶 14'0.54 km
🏛️
10:14 · 80'
Menhir dit du Bourg
The solitary stone looks highly dramatic in the rain; wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots as the surrounding grass quickly turns into thick mud.
🚶 16'0.67 km
🏛️
11:50 · 80'
Gueldro Alignments
Explore the ancient alignments under the rain; be extremely careful on the slippery, wet stones and use a high-quality raincoat instead of an umbrella.
🚶 52'2.44 km
🏛️
14:02 · 80'
Dolmen de Roc'h Kerouaren
The massive capstones offer a tiny moment of shelter from the heavy downpour; watch your step closely on the slick roots and rocks around the site.
🚶 24'1.03 km
🏛️
15:46 · 80'
Menhir de Pen er Pont
Appreciate this towering megalith wrapped in the coastal drizzle; keep your camera securely in a waterproof bag until the very last moment to shoot.
09:00→17:364.7 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 15–21 €Entries 18€ · Transport 0€
Kick off a crisp winter morning at the Église Notre-Dame. Midday, briskly walk to the frosted Menhir dit du Bourg and Gueldro Alignments to keep warm. By mid-afternoon, the low winter sun casts long shadows over the Dolmen. Conclude at Pen er Pont before 5 PM as early dusk settles, bringing an end to your hike.
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⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame de Grâce
The stone interior is beautiful but bitterly cold during winter; dress in thick, warm layers even when exploring the quiet indoor chapels.
🚶 14'0.54 km
🏛️
10:14 · 80'
Menhir dit du Bourg
Photograph the frost-covered stone in the crisp morning air; keep moving at a brisk pace to maintain your body heat out in the fully open field.
🚶 16'0.67 km
🏛️
11:50 · 80'
Gueldro Alignments
Walk the alignments under the low winter sun for striking shadows; wrap up with a thick scarf as the completely open terrain gives zero windbreak.
🚶 52'2.44 km
🏛️
14:02 · 80'
Dolmen de Roc'h Kerouaren
The stark winter landscape highlights the dolmen's rugged beauty; visit while the sun is still up, as the woodland path gets treacherous after dusk.
🚶 24'1.03 km
🏛️
15:46 · 80'
Menhir de Pen er Pont
Marvel at the monument bathed in the low golden hour light; arrive well before 17:00 to completely avoid navigating the unlit, uneven paths in the dark.
09:00→16:5320.1 km ride5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 26–36 €Entries 19€ · Transport 12€
Kick off your cycling journey by visiting the charming central church. Pedal out to the ancient Gueldro Alignments to witness Brittany's megalithic past. In the afternoon, enjoy the sea breeze at the expansive Grande plage de Gâvres. Conclude with the remarkable Roman Villa and the quiet Chapelle Saint-Fiacre.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame de Grâce
Admire the intricate stained glass of this central church, a symbol of Plouhinec's heritage, and visit early in the morning to enjoy the quietest moments.
🚲 9'1.05 km
🏛️
10:09 · 80'
Gueldro Alignments
Walk alongside these mysterious megalithic rows that reveal Brittany's deep past, and wear sturdy walking shoes as the surrounding terrain can be uneven.
🚲 30'4.47 km
📍
11:59 · 45'
Grande plage de Gâvres
Breathe in the fresh Atlantic breeze on this expansive sandy stretch well-suited for relaxation, and pack a windbreaker as the coastal gusts can be quite strong.
🚲 55'8.59 km
🏛️
13:39 · 80'
Mané-Vechen Gallo-Roman Villa
Discover the remarkably preserved foundations of this Roman settlement overlooking the estuary, and read the informative panels to visualize its former glory.
🚲 39'5.97 km
📍
15:38 · 45'
Chapelle Saint-Fiacre
Take a peaceful moment at this characterful Breton chapel known for its local significance, and check the notice board outside for occasional community open days.
09:00→16:5320.1 km ride5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 26–36 €Entries 19€ · Transport 12€
Begin your wet cycling route at Église Notre-Dame, offering a dry start. Morning, pedal carefully over slick roads to the Gueldro Alignments. At noon, the Grande plage de Gâvres is wild; seek shelter if it pours. In the afternoon, visit the Mané-Vechen ruins wrapped in mist. Conclude at Chapelle Saint-Fiacre, a cozy historic refuge to end your damp ride.
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⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame de Grâce
Take refuge from the morning drizzle inside this peaceful church; make sure your bike rim brakes are wiped dry before continuing the slippery journey.
🚲 9'1.05 km
🏛️
10:09 · 80'
Gueldro Alignments
The standing stones are slick in wet weather; park your bike safely on the gravel edge and strictly avoid walking on the thick mud in cycling cleats.
🚲 30'4.47 km
📍
11:59 · 45'
Grande plage de Gâvres
Witness the dramatic, crashing waves during a storm; wear full high-visibility waterproofs as coastal visibility drops sharply for cyclists in the rain.
🚲 55'8.59 km
🏛️
13:39 · 80'
Mané-Vechen Gallo-Roman Villa
The ancient Roman layout is fascinating but fully exposed to the elements; take quick shelter under nearby trees if a sudden heavy shower passes over.
🚲 39'5.97 km
📍
15:38 · 45'
Chapelle Saint-Fiacre
This small chapel is a great final dry stop; inspect your bike chain from the grit and use a waterproof seat cover while parked outside in the rain.
09:00→16:5320.1 km ride5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 26–36 €Entries 19€ · Transport 12€
Start your brisk winter ride at Église Notre-Dame before the chill sets in. Mid-morning, cycle to the frost-tipped Gueldro Alignments, keeping a fast pace to stay warm. By noon, enjoy the empty Grande plage de Gâvres. Afternoon, explore the Mané-Vechen villa ruins. Finish at Chapelle Saint-Fiacre just before the 5 PM sunset plunges roads into dark.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame de Grâce
Admire the cold stone architecture early in the morning; wear thick, insulated cycling gloves as your hands will freeze extremely quickly on the handlebars.
🚲 9'1.05 km
🏛️
10:09 · 80'
Gueldro Alignments
Experience the mystical frost on the ancient stones; approaching rural roads can easily have black ice patches, so brake gently and corner with great care.
🚲 30'4.47 km
📍
11:59 · 45'
Grande plage de Gâvres
Enjoy the bracing winter winds off the completely empty beach; a windproof thermal cycling jacket is absolutely essential for this fully exposed coastal stretch.
🚲 55'8.59 km
🏛️
13:39 · 80'
Mané-Vechen Gallo-Roman Villa
Explore the historic ruins bathed in golden afternoon winter light; thermal leggings are a must as the coastal breeze carries a painfully sharp bite.
🚲 39'5.97 km
📍
15:38 · 45'
Chapelle Saint-Fiacre
Visit this quaint chapel before the temperature drops further; ensure your bike lights are fully charged, as pure darkness falls rapidly around 17:00.
09:00→17:5034.3 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 25–33 €Entries 23€ · Transport 6€
Drive out to begin your grand tour at the iconic local church. Visit the beautiful Chapelle Saint-Fiacre before marveling at the natural Ria d'Étel. Spend your afternoon exploring the Roman history at Mané-Vechen and relaxing by the beach. End your scenic drive at the legendary Gueldro Alignments as the day winds down.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame de Grâce
Admire the intricate stained glass of this central church, a symbol of Plouhinec's heritage, and visit early in the morning to enjoy the quietest moments.
🚗 14'3.18 km
📍
10:14 · 45'
Chapelle Saint-Fiacre
Take a peaceful moment at this welcoming Breton chapel known for its local significance, and check the notice board outside for occasional community open days.
🚗 32'8.65 km
📍
11:31 · 60'
Ria d'Étel
Soak in the panoramic coastal ecosystems of this bustling marine inlet, and bring binoculars to observe the diverse seabirds that gather along the shoreline.
🚗 34'9.38 km
🏛️
13:05 · 80'
Mané-Vechen Gallo-Roman Villa
Discover the remarkably preserved foundations of this Roman settlement overlooking the estuary, and read the informative panels to visualize its former glory.
🚗 32'8.59 km
📍
14:57 · 45'
Grande plage de Gâvres
Breathe in the fresh Atlantic breeze on this expansive sandy stretch great for relaxation, and pack a windbreaker as the coastal gusts can be quite strong.
🚗 18'4.47 km
🏛️
16:00 · 80'
Gueldro Alignments
Walk alongside these mysterious megalithic rows that reveal Brittany's deep past, and wear sturdy walking shoes as the surrounding terrain can be uneven.
09:00→17:5034.3 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 25–33 €Entries 23€ · Transport 6€
Begin a cozy, rain-shielded drive at Église Notre-Dame. Mid-morning, drive to Chapelle Saint-Fiacre and the misty Ria d'Étel, enjoying wet landscapes from your warm car. After a sheltered lunch, explore the Mané-Vechen ruins with waterproofs. Finish the damp afternoon watching wild waves at Gâvres and the glistening Gueldro Alignments.
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⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame de Grâce
Enjoy the glowing stained glass in the gloomy light; keep an umbrella handy in your trunk as parking is a very short but potentially wet walk to the entrance.
🚗 14'3.18 km
📍
10:14 · 45'
Chapelle Saint-Fiacre
The chapel's stone walls look beautiful in the rain; park directly on the gravel area but be cautious of large muddy puddles forming near the passenger door.
🚗 32'8.65 km
📍
11:31 · 60'
Ria d'Étel
The ria takes on a mystical, foggy appearance during downpours; stay inside your warm car for a beautifully scenic coastal view without getting completely soaked.
🚗 34'9.38 km
🏛️
13:05 · 80'
Mané-Vechen Gallo-Roman Villa
This exposed site can become extremely muddy in wet weather; swap your driving shoes for sturdy waterproof boots before walking the ancient Roman foundations.
🚗 32'8.59 km
📍
14:57 · 45'
Grande plage de Gâvres
Watch the ferocious ocean storms safely from the nearby paved parking spots; cracking the window slightly lets you hear the roaring waves from the dry car.
🚗 18'4.47 km
🏛️
16:00 · 80'
Gueldro Alignments
The wet stones glisten beautifully, excellent for moody photography; use the car as a quick, warm retreat to dry your camera gear between heavy rain showers.
09:00→17:5034.3 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 25–33 €Entries 23€ · Transport 6€
Start your heated winter road trip at Église Notre-Dame. Mid-morning, visit Chapelle Saint-Fiacre and the icy edges of Ria d'Étel, keeping warm in the vehicle between stops. In the early afternoon, briefly walk the brisk Mané-Vechen ruins. Conclude your daylight hours at the Grande plage de Gâvres and Gueldro Alignments, driving home as dusk falls at 5 PM.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame de Grâce
The quiet winter morning makes this church deeply peaceful; blast the car heater before stepping out, as the ancient stone interior feels like a deep freezer.
🚗 14'3.18 km
📍
10:14 · 45'
Chapelle Saint-Fiacre
Photograph the frosted roof of this quaint chapel; keep your engine running a minute longer to defrost the windshield completely in the freezing, icy air.
🚗 32'8.65 km
📍
11:31 · 60'
Ria d'Étel
The low winter sun glinting off the icy inlet is memorable; pack a thermal flask of hot tea in the car to sip while taking in the freezing, beautiful coastal view.
🚗 34'9.38 km
🏛️
13:05 · 80'
Mané-Vechen Gallo-Roman Villa
The stark ruins stand out sharply in winter; dress in a heavy windproof coat, as the very short walk from the parking lot is brutally exposed to the chill wind.
🚗 32'8.59 km
📍
14:57 · 45'
Grande plage de Gâvres
Enjoy a brisk, solitary walk on the hard, packed winter sand; don't linger too long as the freezing ocean breeze will rapidly drop your core body temperature.
🚗 18'4.47 km
🏛️
16:00 · 80'
Gueldro Alignments
The long shadows at 16:00 make the ancient alignments look spectacular; finish your visit quickly before 17:00, when navigating unlit rural roads becomes tricky.
Sights in the town Plouhinec (7)
Frequently asked questions
Where are the most beautiful beaches in Plouhinec?
The beach of Magouëro is famous for its vast dunes and fine sand on the Atlantic coast.
Are there historical monuments to visit?
Yes, visit the megaliths of Mané-Bras, impressive witnesses of prehistoric times.
What is the Ria d'Étel?
A beautiful coastal inlet with small islands, convenient for boat trips and oyster tasting.
Can you eat good fish in Plouhinec?
Absolutely, the region is known for fresh fish and seafood directly from the Atlantic.
What is the weather like in summer?
The maritime climate ensures mild temperatures, great for beach visits without extreme heat.
Plouhinec: where is it located?
Plouhinec is located in Bretagne, France.
Plouhinec: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ria d'Étel, Mané-Vechen Gallo-Roman Villa, Gueldro Alignments.
Plouhinec: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Plouhinec: why is it worth visiting?
Perfectly positioned between the open Atlantic Ocean and the fascinating Ria d'Étel estuary, Plouhinec provides some of the most diverse and unspoiled landscapes in southern Brittany.
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