Visit Plouzané in Brittany France

Plouzané is a beautiful day-trip destination if you’re staying in Brest in France…

Is it worth visiting?

Plouzané is definitely worth visiting for those seeking a beautiful coastal getaway with a touch of history and cultural exploration. The commune’s natural beauty, including stunning beaches, cliffs, and ocean views, offers a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities and relaxation. Whether you enjoy leisurely beach walks, exploring historical sites, or simply immersing yourself in the authentic Breton atmosphere, Plouzané has something to offer everyone.

Day trip destination from Brest

if you’re staying in the city of Brest, Plouzané can be a perfect day trip destination. Plouzané is a charming coastal town located on the western coast of Brittany, France, just a short distance from Brest. Getting to Brest is easy:

You’ll fly to Brest Bretagne Airport (BES), (formerly known as Brest Guipavas Airport), which is an international airport located in the commune of Guipavas (about 10.2 km northeast of Brest). From Breast it is a 21-minute car ride (15,3 km) via the D789 to Plouzane. You can rent a car at the airport.

The road from Brest Airport to Plouzané via the D789 offers a scenic drive with beautiful coastal views. While it may not be considered a particularly famous or iconic road in terms of natural beauty, you will still have the opportunity to enjoy glimpses of the coastline and the surrounding landscapes as you make your way to Plouzané.

Photo by: Alexandre Viard

What is it famous for?

Plouzané is known for the iconic Petit Minou Lighthouse, which is the perfect place to take photos. Petit Minou offers fantastic photo opportunities with its picturesque lighthouse, fort, and panoramic coastal views. Capture the natural beauty and unique architecture of the area.

The Petit Minou Lighthouse, also known as Phare du Petit Minou, is situated in the roadstead of Brest, facing the Fort du Petit Minou. Its picturesque location and proximity to the historic Fort du Petit Minou make it a notable landmark in Plouzané, and a spot worth visiting.

Travel photo tip: For the best photo position yourself on the beach or the cliffs, where you can have a clear view of both the lighthouse and the bridge. Frame the shot with the lighthouse as the main focal point, ensuring it is prominently featured in the composition.

It is also a fantastic location to witness spectacular sunsets or catch the early morning sunrise. Watch as the sun casts its warm glow over the coastal landscape, creating a magical atmosphere.

Things to do

Plouzané is known for its stunning natural beauty. The commune is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking coastal views, cliffs, and sandy beaches. The rugged shoreline is ideal for scenic walks, hikes, and enjoying the fresh sea air. Spend some time in the outdoors to enjoy the naturel beauty and beaches.
Spending a day at the beach: You can indulge in activities like swimming, sunbathing, fishing, sailing, and windsurfing. The beautiful beaches provide ample opportunities for relaxation and water sports.
Enjoy the local Cuisine: Brittany is renowned for its delicious seafood and culinary traditions, and Plouzané is no exception.

Photo taken by: Kévin et Laurianne Langlais

Top dishes to order in Plouzane

Far Breton: Far Breton is a dense and custard-like dessert made with eggs, flour, sugar, and milk. It often includes prunes soaked in rum, adding a delightful twist of flavor. It’s a traditional Breton dessert that pairs well with a cup of tea. Get the recipe…

Caramel au Beurre Salé (Salted butter caramel): Brittany is famous for its salted butter caramel. You’ll find it in various forms, such as caramel sauce, caramel candies, or even ice cream. Try the ice cream. It is delicous.

Seafood: As a coastal region, Plouzané is known for its fresh seafood. Indulge in a plate of fruits de mer, which typically includes a selection of oysters, clams, mussels, shrimp, crab, and sometimes even lobster. It’s a delightful and quintessential Breton experience.

Galettes: Galettes are savory buckwheat crepes that are a staple of Breton cuisine. They are typically filled with ingredients like ham, cheese, eggs, mushrooms, or seafood.

Crêpes: In addition to galettes, when in France, don’t miss out on the sweet version of crepes. These thin pancakes are often served with a variety of toppings such as Nutella, sugar, lemon juice, or homemade salted caramel.

Kouign-amann: This traditional Breton pastry is a must-try. It’s a buttery, caramelized, and flaky cake that will satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.

Cotriade: Cotriade is a hearty fish stew that originates from Brittany. It is made with a variety of local fish, typically including cod, haddock, and shellfish. Flavored with onions, garlic, and herbs, this dish is a delicious representation of the region’s maritime heritage.

Nearby Attractions

Plouzané’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring other attractions in Brittany. You can visit the vibrant city of Brest, located just a short distance away. Brest offers a range of cultural sites, shopping opportunities, and a lively waterfront.

By car, it is about 21 minutes (15,3 km) via the D789.

Another recommended detour town is Saint-Renan (only 6km away.) Take a drive out on a Saturday and include your visit to the market for fresh food.

Enjoy the local market in Saint-Renan: The market is open on Saturday all day and it is about 9 minutes (6,6 km) via D38 by car.

Photo: Couett’Hôtel Brest – More on accommodation below…

Nearby Festivals

Brittany is known for its vibrant festivals and cultural events. Depending on the time of your visit, you may have the chance to participate in traditional Breton festivals, music concerts, maritime celebrations, and local fairs.

The festival of Brittany is usually in May.
The Vannes Historical Festival is every year in July as well as the Jazz en Ville festival, filling the streets with the sound of live Jazz music.

Where to stay and when to go

Plouzane vs Brest

Although Plouzané is beautiful we would recommend you to stay in Brest. It is a vibrant city with lots to do and a wider variety of restaurants. It also has better transportation connections, including an airport and train station, making it more accessible for travelers. Brest’s larger size provides more opportunities for entertainment and exploration within the city itself. (So if you’re staying in Brest, you might want to explore Plouzané as a day trip.)

Stay in Brest, France

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The best time to visit Brest in France

Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Brest, with warm temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). It’s a great time to enjoy outdoor activities, explore the coast, and participate in festivals and events.
Spring (March to May): Spring in Brest brings milder temperatures, ranging from 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F). The city starts to bloom with vibrant colors, making it a beautiful time to visit. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another pleasant time to visit Brest, with temperatures ranging from 9°C to 18°C (48°F to 64°F). The city is less crowded, and you can enjoy the changing foliage. Rainfall is slightly higher during this season.
Winter (December to February): Brest experiences mild winters, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). It’s the off-peak season, so you’ll find fewer tourists. While it’s not as cold as some other parts of France, be prepared for rain and wind during this time.