Known for its Pink Granite Coast, the town of Perros-Guirec is one of the must-see treasures of Brittany's Côtes-d'Armor region. Along the coastline, enormous pink rocks stretch as far as the eye can see across several communes. Here's a great opportunity to sample a local dish after a bucolic stroll, then set off to explore the surrounding area. From the charm of Ploumanac'h to the authenticity of Tréguier, discover the best things to do in and around Perros-Guirec.
1. Walking on the Côte de Granit Rose, Brittany's unusual landscape
Easy to access, the Côte de Granit Rose is one of the 11 most beautiful walks in Brittany. The enormous granite boulders seem to defy the laws of gravity. Creating an unusual coppery backdrop, they stretch for ten kilometers along the English Channel. The best-known site is in Ploumanac'h, a village close to Perros-Guirec and voted Village Préféré des Français in 2015. How do you get there? Either drive straight into the village, or take the Sentier des Douaniers from Trestraou beach. If the walk is pleasant, so is the climb up these huge rocks, contemplating the breathtaking rosy landscape created by Mother Nature.
2. Walk to Mean Ruz lighthouse in Ploumanac'h
Stay a little longer in the bucolic atmosphere of Ploumanac'h. As you walk among the immense rocks, you'll see the Mean Ruz lighthouse, built from our famous pink granite. A true symbol of the coast, it marks the entrance to Ploumanac'h harbour. Although closed to visitors, the lighthouse is a welcome stopover on your tour of the Pink Granite Coast. As is often the case in Brittany, it seems to float like the end of the world when you look out over the sea from the lighthouse..
Did you know? The lighthouse's name comes from the Breton expression "Men Ruz", literally "red stone".
3. Discover the port of Ploumanac'h
Continue on towards the pretty port of Ploumanac'h. Far from the big ports of the Riviera, it offers a pleasant stroll along pretty little pleasure boats. Surrounded by lush greenery, bordered by the Sentier des Douaniers (customs path) and located close to the Côte de Granit Rose, it reveals an irresistible charm when you visit the area. Pretty little Breton houses complete this enchanting picture.
4. What to do in Perros-Guirec? Stroll along the Sentier des Douaniers
Not surprisingly, the Sentier des Douaniers is one of the top 17 things to do in Brittany during your stay. Your walk begins on the Trestraou promenade. From there, you walk up Rue de la Clarté, until you find a small passage on your left: you've found the entrance to the Sentier des Douaniers! During your walk, you'll contemplate some superb scenery, including a beautiful view of the 7-island archipelago. Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes in length, the trail is 9 km long. But you don't have to do it all. If you've started your walk from Perros-Guirec, just follow the trail for as long as you like, and then turn back: you'll already have had your fill of it!
Good to know: the Sentier des Douaniers is accessible to baby carriages, people with reduced mobility and dogs on a leash.
5. Discover the Parc des Sculptures Christian Gad et Daniel Chhé
A must-see treasure of Perros-Guirec's cultural heritage, the Parc des Sculptures Christian Gad et Daniel Chhé unveils its monumental works. A little like the Vallée des Saints in Carnoët, but smaller, the park is open to visitors with free admission. The first sculptures in pink or grey granite were exhibited in 1998, and the collection was completed in 2007. A total of 18 sculptures are on display at the Parc des Sculptures. A lovely walk to discover with your partner or family, south of Saint-Guirec.
6. Explore the Vallée des Traouïero, a magical world
Did you know? In Breton, the word "Traouïéro" means "the valleys". You'll plunge into the heart of a shimmering forest, whose pure colors and dense vegetation invite you to daydream. Couldn't we come across a little fairy here or there? Certainly not, but the path that winds through the Vallée des Traouïero is no less magical. Although less well signposted than the Sentier des Douaniers, it offers a pleasant stroll in the shade of ancient trees. The path takes you up a flight of steps that blend into the natural surroundings, and then on to a small freshwater pond. From here, a lovely granite chaos follows you along the path, eventually leading to the Grotte des Contrebandiers, then on to a small bridge and a tombstone. The icing on the cake: during your walk, you'll be able to admire a beautiful view of Sept-Îles and the Pink Granite Coast.
7. Visit the Museum of the History and Traditions of Brittany
Let's add a little culture to our discovery of Perros-Guirec! At the Musée de l'Histoire et des Traditions de Bretagne, you can explore the history of the region from 1790 to 1890 through 10 rooms. Housed in the former 1850 harbor master's office, the museum features maps, documents, engravings and historical reconstructions, as well as an exhibition of headdresses and costumes. A tribute is also paid to the 150,000 Bretons who died in the First World War. A rich and moving tour, taking you through the traditions and highlights of the region. A real favorite!
Are you on vacation with your family? We recommend this Stand Up Paddle trip to Perros-Guirec: you'll discover the magnificent Perros-Guirrec coastline while enjoying a family outing.
8. Visit the Maison du Littoral, unveiling the secrets of the Pink Granite Coast
Located on the Sentier des Douaniers, the Maison du Litt oral invites you to take a break during your walk. Discover the history of the trail, Ploumanac'h and, of course, the Côte de Granit Rose. Housed in a pretty Breton house, it offers visitors a variety of activities, as well as 100% nature hikes . From public awareness-raising to nature workcamps and guided tours, the program is complete! Open all year round, the site is run by enthusiasts eager to share their knowledge with you.
9. Explore the 7 Islands Nature Reserve
Located 4 km off the coast of Perros-Guirec, the 7 Islands archipelago is made up of the following islands:
- Bono,
- Malban,
- l'île aux Moines,
- les Cerfs,
- Rouzic,
- l'île Plate,
- les Costans.
In 1912, the private ornithological reserve was created. Rich in bird species, it became a nature reserve in 1976. From seabirds to nesting species, this is the largest ornithological reserve on the French coast. Although access is restricted to respect the local fauna, guided tours are still available.
10. Visit Trégastel, between beach and natural treasures
Known for its megaliths, the town of Trégastel is divided between its beautiful beaches (Coz-Pors and Grève Blanche) and wild nature.Île Renote is a must-see. The cheerful granite mess on its beaches invites you to take a stroll and escape. Accessible to people with reduced mobility, the island offers a magical walk, before returning to the mainland. From the Trégastel Tide Mill to the marine aquarium, you'll find plenty to keep you busy all day in this pretty Breton town.
Tempted by a surf or bodyboard lesson in Perros-Guirec? Learn to surf or bodyboard with a former bodyboarding champion during a 2-hour lesson on the Presqu'île de Locquirec by booking right here.
11. Admire Costaérès castle, a medieval treasure
Stay a little longer in Trégastel, to discover one of its historic gems: the Château de Costaérès. From Tourony beach, you can admire this imposing neo-medieval villa dating from the late 19th century. Built in 1892 by Bruno Abdank Abakanovitch, a Polish engineer, it is constructed of... pink granite from the La Clarté quarries in Perros-Guirec, of course! Standing on an islet, the château is surrounded by green fields and chaotic pink rocks. A splendid panorama! Continue your discovery walk towards the port of Ploumanac'h. You'll discover two tide mills typical of the region.
12. Explore Tréguier, Breton authenticity
With its half-timbered houses and granite buildings, the town of Tréguier has retained its old-world charm. Located half an hour from Perros-Guirec, this former episcopal city reveals its treasures of the past, such as Saint-Tugdual cathedral and its pretty cloister. Tréguier's medieval streets are a delight to stroll through, including the Maison d'Ernest Renan, before strolling along the marina. Deeply rooted in its traditions, the town offers a pleasant Breton-style stroll.
13. Enjoy Pleumeur-Bodou's family activities
Looking for the perfect family outing near Perros-Guirec? Set course for Pleumeur-Bodou and its various family activities. Visit the Radôme, an enormous white ball housing a historic antenna from the first satellite TV transmissions. From here, you can visit the Cité des Télécoms, an interactive museum featuring a sound and light show. Your tour also includes a visit to Ile Grande. With its ancient granite quarries and panoramic views over the 7 islands and the Triagoz archipelago, it's pure enchantment.
At the Parc du Radôme, children will love the Gaulish Village and its sixty or so play activities. The visit ends at the Planetarium, which immerses you in space with a captivating show.
14. Take a tour of the Trestel marshes, an amazing walk in Brittany
The Trestel marsh invites you to take a leisurely stroll. The 2.6-kilometre loop takes around 1 hour. You'll move peacefully through reed meadows and undergrowth, immersing yourself in the marsh's diverse ambience. Here, respect for nature is the watchword. Flora and fauna thrive in peace and quiet. And who knows? You may even come across a few horses on your stroll, as they play a natural part in the upkeep of this exceptional site. The trail ends at the white sandy beach of Trestel, offering another popular walk for children.
15. Visit Lannion, between tradition and modernity
Just 12 kilometers from Perros-Guirec, set course for Lannion, whose traditional Breton houses have retained all their old-world charm. From the historic center to the banks of the Léguer, the town has 1001 surprises in store for you. You can take a guided tour from the Quai d'Aiguillon to discover the secrets of this medieval city in Brittany. Do you dare to climb the steps leading to the heights of the town? Up there, theTrinité de Brélévenez church majestically overlooks the coastline. A splendid view awaits you!
Where to stay in Perros-Guirec?
Want to stay close to the town center? The La Clarté district is the ideal place to stay in Perros-Guirec. To the east of the town, Trestrignel also offers great sightseeing, as well as beautiful views of the coastline.
- The best location
You'll have your feet in the water, so to speak, at the carefully decoratedHôtel Ker Mor. The bright, modern and colorful rooms offer a pleasant setting for your suitcases in Perros-Guirec. Click here to book a room at this establishment, some of which have a sea view.
- The most zen
Our favorite is L'Agapa, a spa hotel offering hammam, sauna and body treatments. The rooms are spacious and offer unrivalled comfort. The delicious buffet breakfast is sure to get your day off to a great start! Click here to book this establishment just 400 metres from the town center.
- The quietest
Located near the marina, with its relaxing view a welcome bonus, Le Bon Accueil offers cosy rooms. Its peaceful garden is the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing around Perros-Guirec. Book here this quiet address in town.
For lovers of the great outdoors, find out which campsite to choose in Brittany for your next vacation.
What to do in Perros-Guirec when it rains?
Anideal destination in September, Brittany still enjoys a pleasant climate. However, it's a well-known fact that it can rain in Brittany at any time of year. But don't panic, there's always something to do! For example, the Musée de l'Histoire et des Traditions de Bretagne (Museum of the History and Traditions of Britt any) is the perfect place to learn about the region's history while waiting for the sun to return.
But then, what can you do in Perros-Guirec when it's raining? Would you like to visit the religious buildings? There are several choices:
- Notre-Dame de la Clarté,
- Church of Saint-Jacques,
- Chapelle Saint-Guirec.
The area around Perros-Guirec also offers some interesting sights when it's raining. At the Trégastel forum, you can take advantage of a closed aquatic complex with seawater pools. Still in Trégastel, head for the aquarium Marinnestled in pink granite caves. An unusual location, for a place that will put stars in children's eyes.
In Pleumeur-Bodou, the Parc du Radôme also welcomes you with its indoor activities, such as the Planetarium. Finally, your rainy visits come to an end at the Domaine de La Roche Jagu. You can visit the sumptuous château, its gardens and temporary exhibitions.
Which beautiful villages to visit around Perros-Guirec?
While Perros-Guirec is a must-see jewel in the Côtes-d'Armor, Ploumanac'h is one of Brittany's most beautiful villages to discover nearby. In fact, the two towns are linked, offering complete and surprising tours of the Côtes-d'Armor. As we've already mentioned, Trégastel is one of the must-sees near Perros-Guirec. There's plenty to do and the setting is enchanting. When it comes to authentic architecture, head for Tréguier and Lannion, two lovely towns whose houses have retained their old-world charm. In the same spirit, you can visit the town of Paimpol, opening onto a fabulous bay.
In a more bucolic style, we highly recommend a visit to Pontrieuxone of the most beautiful villages to visit around Perros-Guirec. Nestled in a natural setting, this Petite Cité de Caractère® lives at a leisurely pace. You can visit the village on foot, or aboard a small boat on the river Tréguier. A visit you'll remember for a long time to come!
Finally, you can't leave Brittany without visiting the island of Bréhat. Aptly nicknamed "l'île aux fleurs" (the island of flowers), it can only be visited on foot or by bike, promising a bucolic excursion off the Breton coast. As splendid as it is exotic!
Although it's a little far from Perros-Guirec, the village of Dinan is one of the most beautiful medieval villages in France: a must-see! In the same spirit, set course for Erquy, a lovely Breton village with one of France's most beautiful beaches for romantic strolls. Other beautiful beaches in Brittany include Sables-d'Or-les-Pins and Guerzido.
If you want to go further, discover the 23 must-sees in Côtes-d'Armor, from Paimpol to Bréhat Island, via Cap Fréhel.
Petit Futé tip
Want to enjoy the beach? There are many on the Pink Granite Coast, but we recommend Plage de la Bastille. Located just a stone's throw from the Plage de Saint-Guirec, it offers an enchanting setting. Small and tranquil, it invites you to escape and contemplate the sea and the Château de Costaérès.
From town to country, Brittany is accessible to all levels, on foot or by bike. Discover the 10 most beautiful bike rides in Brittany for the whole family. While you're on the coast of Brittany, check out the best places to visit on the Emerald Coast, the region's must-see pearl. Are you more of a party person? The good news is that one of the best music festivals takes place in the Côtes-d'Armor: the Art Rock Festival.
Tempted by our selection? Take a look at our train ticket prices and book now!
