Belle Ile en Mer

Belle-Île-en-Mer is an island off the coast of Brittany in north west France and the largest of Brittany's islands. It is divided into four communes - Bangor, Le Palais, Locmaria and Sauzon

The citadel of Belle-Île-en-Mer dominates the bay of Le Palais. It is here you can find the Musée de la Citadelle.

At Pointe de Poulains in Sauzon, there is a museum which exhibits parts of the life of Sarah Bernhardt, the famous 19th century stage and screen actress.

Locmaria town is huddled around the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, the oldest church on the island and the subject of many local legends.

Les aiguilles de Port Coton (rock stacks) in the town of Bangor, have been the subject of several works of famous painters such as Claude Monet. Also here is the large Gouphar lighthouse which dominates the whole of this wild coast.

Sporting activities include kayaking, surfing, diving and fishing. Daily cruises in July and August visit the nearby islands of Houat or Hoëdic. On land, there is tennis, pony trekking, golf or tackle the high rope course at the Adventure Park.

Explore the paths and trails around the island by bike or on foot. Maps and information is available from the Tourist Office.

Belle-Île has nearly 60 beautiful, undeveloped beaches, choose from long fine and sandy to little coves all around its coast. Lifeguards are on duty at 3 beaches - Donnant, Herlin and Les Grands Sables between 1st July and 31st August (1-7pm only)

The island offers many restaurants, cafes, shops and a market. Visit galleries and workshops where you will find clothes, jewellery, ceramics, blown glass, sculptures and paintings.

Local menus feature lots of fresh fish and seafood. Try a traditional seafood platter which may include freshly caught oysters, clams, mussels, scallops, crab and prawns or 'Moules Marinières', mussels in a creamy sauce. Breton Crêpes and Galettes (pancakes) are well known specialities from the West region of France.

Most cruise ships anchor and tender passengers ashore to Le Palais, which is the main port and capital of the island.

The Tourist Information Office is located near to the tender drop off point.

Car, scooter and bike hire can be found in town along with local taxi firms.