Cycling in Brittany (Quiberon, Belle-île-en-Mer)

From time to time, the conditions are met for memorable sailing. This was the case for our day sail from La Turballe to Quiberon. However, as we plan our next leg to round the northwest corner of Brittany, the conditions have noticeable deteriorated with excess wind and high waves due to the depressions forming over the Atlantic. Never mind, we took our bikes out of the Lazarette for some local exploration until the weather settled. And during the worst days, modern technology allowed us to get professional work done.

Memorable sailing from La Turballe to Quiberon

For this passage we had just the right amount of wind to get excellent speed without needing to worry about reefing. The scattered islands prevented the build-up of waves and provided for an entertaining scenery. Add some sunshine to the mix and you get two happy sailors!

Quiberon Peninsula

After we arrived in Port Haliguen, the marina of Quiberon, we went for a walk as there are beautiful views along the coast.

Soon, we realised that it was worth taking out our bikes to extend our reach.

There is a french song “Belle-île-en-Mer, Marie Galante…” by Laurent Voulzy that we heard growing up and made us curious about this island. It is a renowned vacation destination. When we realised that we could get there by ferry even if the weather was lousy, we took the opportunity.

Biking on Belle-île-en-Mer goes up and down, through a bucolic landscape. Soon, it started to rain.

Our aim was Sauzon and its lovely port. Second gateway on the protected side of the island, the main activity of this village was fishing sardines. There are many restaurants around the port where we had lunch.

We initially wanted to go to the Fort owned by Sarah Bernhardt (a french actress famous in the American Far West and featured in the adventures of Lucky Luke). But the weather was not cooperating. So we pedaled back to Le Palais and took the ferry back to Quiberon.