How do I get to Les Glénan? Getting to the Archipelago

Fancy setting sail for the Glénan archipelago or discovering the magnificent beaches of Saint-Nicolas?

Find out all the information you need to set sail with peace of mind from the Beg-Meil slipway in Fouesnant or the surrounding ports: means of transport, crossing periods and times.

©Fouesnant Riviera Bretonne Lezbroz 2020 7 1

Heading for the Glénan Some useful information before you go

Accessible only from April to September, the Glénan archipelago reveals itself to lovers of wide open spaces. Around fifteen kilometres from the coast, head for the island of Saint-Nicolas for a magical day out. Île Saint-Nicolas is the only island in the Glénan archipelago open to visitors.

Here you can discover a small natural paradise, ideal for lounging on beaches worthy of the tropics, walking around the island on the signposted path, having lunch on the terrace or on a picnic and observing the marine fauna with a mask and snorkel (sea urchins, small fish…). There is no link between the other islands. You can also choose to sail around the islands non-stop!

Booklet for respectful visitors - Glénan Archipelago

Our advice Before booking

Choose your departure port: Bénodet, Concarneau, Port-la-Forêt or Beg-Meil in summer.
Choose your type of boat: passenger launch, sailboat or catamaran, old rigging or RIB.
Choose your crossing option: round trip, day or half-day, crossing with activity, nature walk or guided excursion.
Check availability at least 48-72 hours in advance, especially in high season.
Check parking and access (on foot, by bike, by bus).
Check the weather conditions: a clear day is ideal for making the most of Les Glénan, as there is no shelter on site.
Check any special conditions: pets, children and babies with pushchairs, accessibility.
Pack ahead: sun cream, sunglasses, hat, swimming costume, towel, windbreaker and bring water.
Pack a picnic or book in at one of the island’s two restaurants: La Boucane or Les Viviers des Glénan Chez Castric.

The Glénan Archipelago

When and how do you get there?
Crossings to the Glénan archipelago are available from April to September. Outside this period, access is not possible. Several shipping companies offer transport to the islands, with a range of options to suit your requirements.
I would like to book a trip to the Glénan islands
Can we go everywhere?
Saint-Nicolas is largely accessible (except for the nature reserve enclosure), but some islands are private, reserved for the sailing school or protected. On the other hand, the islet of La Croix and its foreshore are only accessible outside the bird nesting period (from 1 April to 31 August), as are the west of Ile Cigogne and the north-east of Ile de Penfret.
What to take with you
Beware the Breton sun! It’s very serious: when the sun appears on the archipelago, it “hits”. To avoid the burns caused by the lack of shade on the islands and the reflection of the water, it’s best to be prepared. Pack sunglasses, a cap, sun cream, a water bottle and why not a small parasol?
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are allowed on a lead. They can join you on Île Saint-Nicolas and on the signposted paths, but are not allowed on the beaches from 1 June to 30 September. Please note that some companies do not offer transport for pets.
What's for dinner?
Small islands mean very limited catering facilities. If you haven’t booked in advance, it’s best to bring your own picnic. Bring a bag to take your rubbish (including cigarette butts) back to the mainland.
I would like to book a restaurant in Les Glénan