If you're looking for a nature destination, theisland of Houat is the ideal place for an authentic Breton getaway. Accessible by boat from Quiberon, this small 5 km-long island offers breathtaking scenery, from fine sandy beaches to granite cliffs and coastal paths ideal for hiking. Enjoy the tranquility of its typical villages, taste delicious local shellfish and explore marine secrets at the Eclosarium museum. Whether you're a nature, sailing or gastronomy enthusiast, Houat has an unforgettable experience in store for you, far from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
1- Walking tour of the island
To discover the island of Houat in all its splendor, there's nothing like a walking tour along the 16 km coastal path. In around 4 hours, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramas of granite cliffs, wild moors and fine sandy beaches. This easy trail, accessible to all, plunges you into the heart of unspoilt nature, where every turn reveals a new ocean view. Be prepared: bring water and a hat, as the island offers little shade. Practical tip: remember to follow the marked trails to protect the local flora and fauna.
Book your excursion to the island of Houat here!
2- Treac'h er Goured beach
Plage de Treac'h er Goured, the largest beach on the island of Houat, is a real gem. Its fine golden sand, bathed in turquoise waters, makes it an ideal place to relax. Perfect for a swim or a siesta in the sun, this spot is also popular with families. Please note: the island offers little shade, so remember to bring a hat and sunscreen for protection. Take the opportunity to admire the boats in the distance and listen to the gentle surf of the ocean. For a full day's outing, you can easily reach this beach on foot from the village.
3- Village and port of Saint-Gildas
The village and port of Saint-Gildas is the lively heart of the island of Houat. As you arrive on the island, you'll be greeted by this charming fishing port, with its colorful boats and stacked nets bearing witness to traditional maritime activity. Stroll through the village's picturesque streets, where typical white houses huddle together, creating a peaceful atmosphere. You can watch local fishermen unload their catch, including freshly caught shellfish, before enjoying it in one of the village's restaurants. Don't miss the hollyhocks that embellish the facades and add a touch of color to the landscape.
4- Eclosarium Museum
Visit Eclosarium Museum is a must to discover the history of the island of Houat and its rich marine ecosystem. Located by the ocean, this museum plunges you into the fascinating world of micro-algae and reveals the secrets of underwater life. Through interactive exhibits, learn more about the island's biodiversity and the importance of preserving this fragile environment. At the same time, the museum tells the story of Houat's inhabitants, whose lives are intimately linked to the sea. An ideal visit for families and nature lovers alike.
5- Fishing trip
The return from fishing on Houat is a not-to-be-missed moment for a true Breton experience. Every day, local fishermen return to the port of Saint-Gildas with crates full of fresh shellfish, including lobster, the island's specialty. You can watch them unload their catch and prepare their gear for the next trip out to sea. Afterwards, sample these seafood products in one of the village's restaurants for an authentic and tasty meal. It's an ideal opportunity to discover the richness of artisanal fishing and taste the local flavors.
6- Bike rides
Cycling is a great way to discover the island of Houat at your own pace. Although the coastal paths are reserved for pedestrians, the island's main roads, all accessible by bike, offer magnificent panoramas of the ocean and Breton countryside. Rent a bike directly on the island to explore the narrow lanes and easily reach points of interest such as the village of Saint-Gildas or the Plage de Treac'h er Goured. Take advantage of this activity to explore the island in just a few hours, while immersing yourself in the unspoilt nature and unique landscapes.
Rent your bikes for a ride on Île d'Houat here!
7- Sailing and water sports
Water sports are a must on Houat, thanks in particular to the sailing school located on the Grande Plage. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sailor, you can learn or improve your sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddling or windsurfing skills. You can rent equipment or take courses to suit all levels. Sailing around the island offers a breathtaking view of its wild coastline, as well as a fun and sporting experience. It's also an opportunity to discover Houat from a new angle, from the sea.
Book a boat cruise to Île d'Houat here!
8- Discover the island's flora and fauna
Discovering the flora and fauna of the island of Houat is a real journey to the heart of a wild and preserved nature. By following the coastal paths, you'll have the opportunity to observe exceptional biodiversity, including numerous species of protected birds, such as the gravelots that nest on the beaches. The flowering heaths, carpeted with purple heather, offer a colorful spectacle all year round. It's essential to stay on the marked trails to protect this fragile ecosystem. Finally, for botany enthusiasts, the island is home to a variety of rare plants typical of the Breton coastline.
9- Visit the island of Hoëdic
A visit to theisland of Hoëdic, just 25 minutes by boat from Houat, is a must. Smaller than its neighbor, this 2.5 km-long island can easily be discovered on foot in just a few hours. Its fine sandy beaches are ideal for swimming, and you can explore historic sites such as the dolmen de la Croix. The island of Hoëdic, with its unspoilt landscapes and wild coastline, is also a paradise for wildlife lovers. Don't forget to take advantage of this excursion to discover the cultural richness of this small island.
10- Staying on the island
Staying on the island of Houat allows you to take full advantage of its calm and natural beauty, especially after the day's visitors have left. Several options are available, from the hotel La Sirène overlooking the harbor, to the family rooms at the island fort for a unique experience in a former military battery. For more modest budgets, camping on the natural area is an excellent alternative. Whatever your option, spending a night on Houat guarantees total immersion in the island's tranquillity.
Book the most popular activities on the island of Houat here:
Where to take the boat to Houat?
To get to the island of Houat, you can take the boat from several ports in the Morbihan region. The main departure is from Quiberon, with regular crossings throughout the year, notably via Compagnie Océane. The crossing takes around 45 minutes.
In season, there are also departures from :
- Port Navalo (approx. 1 hour)
- Vannes (2h30)
- La Turballe and Le Croisic (approx. 1h30)
What's the best beach on Houat?
The most beautiful beach on the island of Houat is generally considered to be Treac'h er Goured. It's the island's largest beach, famous for its fine golden sand and turquoise waters. It stretches for almost 2 km and is ideal for swimming, relaxing or water sports. Its exceptional ocean views make it a must for visitors in search of tranquillity and breathtaking scenery.
Where to take the boat to Hoëdic?
- Quiberon: 45-minute crossing all year round, mainly with Compagnie Océane.
- Port Navalo: about 1 hour, in summer.
- Vannes and La Turballe: longer crossings, around 1h30 to 2h depending on the company, available mainly in summer.
