Sailing route from Lorient (Kernevel)

Reaching Groix from Lorient bay only takes an hour or two maximum depending on the wind (often downwind, or westerly with a thermal at the end of the day) and it is quite possible to cast off on Saturday after your provisioning and inventory to sleep in Groix on the first evening of your cruise in Brittany. Be careful when leaving Lorient harbour, opposite the magnificent citadel of Port Louis, as many boats, ferries, commercial vessels and even kite surfers sail on the water. The current, especially in case of high tide, can be surprising.

From Port Tudy, set sail for Belle-Île, the largest of the Breton islands, and dock at the charming port of Sauzon. Set off to discover the "island of a thousand faces". Nature lovers will be delighted: 100 km of hiking trails, moors along the steep cliffs, beaches and small creeks... Stroll through the typical narrow streets of Sauzon and take time to admire the colourful traditional houses. Don't set sail again without visiting the local markets, whose fresh produce is a real pleasure to taste.

A single day's visit will not be enough... So take advantage of a second day on the island and sail along the coast to the port of Le Palais, just 4 miles to the east. When you dock at the port, you can see the majestic Vauban citadel, whose silhouette dominates the port. Don't forget to visit it to discover the memory of the island. From its summit, you will enjoy an extraordinary panorama.

On this fourth day of sailing, cast off for an out-of-this-world break on the island of Houat. This little jewel of 3km in length guarantees you a change of scenery and calm. You can anchor at the Grande plage (Trearc'h Er Goured) and explore the hiking trails. On this occasion, you can observe some rare dolmens and menhirs dating from the period when Houat was still attached to the mainland. Don't forget to book a table at Restaurant Les Iles. This restaurant offers local cuisine with fresh, 100% local and seasonal products! Night at anchor.

Continue your itinerary with a short, easy sail to Hoëdic, Houat's "little sister" only 4 miles away. This Breton island can also be discovered on foot or by bike. Visit the fort of Hoëdic in the centre of the island where you can enjoy temporary and permanent exhibitions. For the pleasure of drinking a coffee on the terrace with a splendid view of the sea, go to the Café du Nord! Night at anchor.

On this penultimate day on the boat, slowly hoist the sails towards Groix. This long stage will allow you to get closer to your home port of Lorient, probably tacking a little if the wind is from the West, or downwind with an East wind. Take the opportunity to anchor at the Sables Rouges beach. Night at anchor.

To finish your sailing trip, make the most of your day on the island until the last minute! The port of Kernevel in Lorient is not far away!