Less well known than Saint-Malo or Mont-Saint-Michel, Cancale is nevertheless the talk of the town. A small, sparsely populated spot in low season, the town nevertheless attracts crowds, charmed by the art of living that reigns here. From its beautiful blue sea to its long jetty and typically Breton houses, the place has more than one trick up its sleeve to make you fall under its spell. Let us give you a 13-point list of things to do in Cancale, explaining why this little piece of Brittany is so popular.
1. The Port de la Houle, between promenade and enchantment
The port of La Houle, anchored in Brittany since 2017, invites you to discover its main activities: fishing and shellfish farming. It is home to the famous Oyster Market, for which this small coastal town is renowned. Remarkably well managed, the site reveals a rich history dating back to the XIXᵉ century, marked by notable improvements, including the 1862 lighthouse and the cale de l'Epi. Despite the striking tourist developments of the early XXᵉ century, the port maintains a harmonious balance between fishing, oyster farming and tourism.
2. Stroll through Cancale's town center
The vibrant heart of Cancale revolves around thechurch of Saint-Méen. Perched high above the sea, this church offers a breathtaking view for miles around, making it an emblematic landmark along the coastal road between Mont Saint-Michel and Saint-Malo. If you're a road-trip enthusiast, this is one of your most beautiful itineraries!
From charming streets to picturesque alleyways, you'll stroll past small local shops, letting yourself wander. Your stroll will take you to the fountain "Les laveuses d'huîtres " in front of the church. A guided tour will give you a better understanding of the history and symbols of this pretty piece of land.
3. The Houle district, Breton tradition rediscovered
As soon as you enter the town, you plunge into the heart of the quartier de la Houle, whose fishermen's houses dating from the XVIIIᵉ and XIXᵉ centuries add cachet to the whole. The traditional aspect of the district is also underlined by the small niches dedicated to the Virgin Mary, erected in her honor following the Cholera epidemic that raged in the 1850s. This is a different kind of Cancale, steeped in history and culture, far removed from the hustle and bustle of tourism.
The preserved streets, especially those closest to the cliff, retain the rustic charm of the homes of yesteryear, making for an unusual stroll. Despite recent transformations, the area has retained its character, for your enjoyment.
4. Cale de l'Épi, a magnificent jetty
As you explore the port of Cancale, extend your stroll along the adjoining jetty. The Cale de l'Epi, although originally intended as a mooring in Ille-et-Vilaine, offers a pleasant stroll through the waves. It won't take you long, but offers a lovely view. If you're looking for a bucolic, even slightly romantic outing, you've come to the right place! At sunset, it's even more beautiful..
5. The Notre-Dame du Verger chapel, a magical view
Discovering Cancale also means admiring the charming Notre-Dame du Verger chapel, built in the XIXᵉ century in a neo-Gothic style. Often remodeled, it remains a favorite meeting point for Cancalais. Classified as a"chapel of the sea", it is overflowing withsailors' offerings, testimony to their devotion to Notre Dame du Verger. Once a place of recollection for many seafarers' wives, today it offers a visit filled with history and devotion.
6. The Cancale oyster market, an institution
The Cancale oyster market is one of the top 10 once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Even if you don't fancy an oyster tasting, this picturesque market is well worth a visit! Eight producers set up shop here every Sunday morning, selling their fresh produce. If you'd like to take some oysters home with you, the best thing to do is to come and taste them on the spot: an oyster, a glass, a squeeze of lemon, and off you go! Facing the sea, you treat yourself to an unusual Breton experience. Finished? Return the oyster shell to the sea, in its natural habitat: it's allowed!
7. Cancale's architecture in the spotlight
Strolling through the picturesque streets of Cancale reveals a fascinating array of architecture. In the heart of the village, Manoir Bellevue was once an incredible mansion, sadly now marred by a supermarket on the first floor. The upper part, however, still bears witness to the building's beauty. Despite a few changes, authenticity persists throughout most of the town, with houses such as the Manoir de Bricourt and the presbytère preserving their charm. End your stroll on Rue Surcouf, where majestic mansions offer breathtaking views of the sea and Mont Saint-Michel: a pure marvel!
8. The Sentier des Douaniers, a must-see in Brittany
The Sentier des Douaniers, also known as the GR34, is a charming coastal trail stretching for hundreds of kilometers between Mont Saint-Michel and Saint-Malo. We've talked about it many times before, and we'll be talking about it many more times. And with good reason: it's as beautiful as it is unmissable!
Voted Sentier Préféré des Français in 2017 and 2018, it offers over 13 km of trails around Cancale. Sporty and less sporty friends alike, the Sentier des Douaniers is generally accessible to all! You're off for a short stroll of pure pleasure. The starting point, the Pointe des Crolles, 7 km from the Pointe du Grouin, offers a panoramic view of the oyster beds and harbour. Looking for a more accessible experience? The section near the Pointe du Grouin is preferable.
9. See dolphins in Cancale!
Brittany is one of the ideal destinations for children to have fun and marvel at the sights. And what better way to get stars in your eyes than a trip to the sea to discover dolphins? You may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one from the shore, but nothing is less certain. To optimize your chances, theAl Lark association is here to help. Founded in 2004 by guides and marine biologists, Al Lark offers sea outings around Cancale, combining education and awareness of marine biodiversity. The best! Although there's no absolute guarantee of seeing dolphins, the adventure offers a great opportunity to explore the biological diversity surrounding Cancale. It's an irresistible appeal for lovers of marine life!
10. Walk to the Pointe du Grouin
Halfway between Cancale and Saint-Malo, the Pointe du Grouin is the ideal place to admire breathtaking views of the Emerald Coast. A protected bird sanctuary awaits you in this wilderness setting. It's also here, in part, that you're likely to catch a glimpse of the occasional dolphin. The Pointe's two magnificent facades, one facing Mont Saint-Michel and the other stretching towards the Emerald Coast, invite contemplation. Whichever way you look, the scenery is dazzling!
Good to know in season, the mimosas add a magical touch to this splendid getaway.
Don't hesitate to take a seat on the terrace of Brasserie La Pointe du Grouin, where the quality of the food is matched only by the view of the sea.
11. Discover Mont-Saint-Michel Bay by boat
Even if you don't want to meet the dolphins, you can still book an excursion on the English Channel. Looking for an unusual getaway? Come aboard La Cancalaisemanaged by theAssociation Bisquine Cancalaise, an exceptional fishing sailboat. More than just a trip out to sea, you'll be immersed in the fishing tradition. From Cancale to Saint-Malo or Mont-Saint-Michel, board the boat of your choice, and off you go! All the beauty of the coast is yours to discover, and you'll have plenty of vacation memories to treasure.
12. La pointe du Hock, a taste of the end of the world
Looking for an Instagrammable spot on this Breton piece of land? You've found it at the Pointe du Hock, where you'll be overwhelmed by its wild beauty. As is often the case on the Breton coast, there's an air of being at the end of the world here, a feeling that you're at one with your surroundings. Once occupied by a small fort, nature reclaimed its place after the construction of Fort des Rimains. Today, it's one of Cancale's finest vantage points overlooking the bay of Mont Saint-Michel!
Good news: if you're planning to do a bit of hiking, the GR34 passes through here.
13. The Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions
You can't visit a town without visiting at least one local museum! In Cancale, it's the Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires (Museum of Folk Art and Folk Traditions) that really appeals. Nestled in the old 18thᵉ century church built by Garangeau, a pupil of Vauban, this museum is a real invitation to explore the Cancale of yesteryear.
With around 1,000 exhibits, it presents with typical Breton charm the facets of local maritime and agricultural life, from bisquines to oyster farming. The woodcarvings of Abbé Quemerais add an interesting artistic touch to your visit. The icing on the cake: every year, a temporary exhibition complements the permanent one, offering a deep insight into the town's history.
Where to stay in Cancale?
Brittany is one of the most popular destinations in France, and it's easy to see why! Splendid, wild and natural, it conceals many wonders. To make the most of it, find a comfortable, well-located hotel.
- The most romantic
The Manoir des Douets Fleuris, a charming residence nestled in a green setting, is the undisputed meeting place for romantic weekends, and can be booked here. Let yourself be charmed by the stonework of this old building, elegantly brought up to date.
- The most beautiful view
Get ready for a quiet stay at the Hôtel de la Pointe du Grouin, housed in an old Breton house. Here, old-world charm blends with modern facilities for a comfortable stay. The breathtaking sea view adds the finishing touch to this choice address, which you can book here.
- Best value for money
A quiet location, a large indoor swimming pool, affordable prices: the list of Hotel Jour et Nuit's qualities is long! Nestling in the heart of a pretty flower-filled park, this establishment, which can be booked in just a few clicks here, promises you a charming trip in a green setting. An unmissable address in Cancale, offering excellent value for money!
What to do in Cancale when it rains?
It's no secret that it can often rain in Brittany. To maximize your chances of good weather, try to plan your stay in May or during the summer months.
Nevertheless, even in the rain, Cancale offers a variety of interesting activities. Head for the Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires, housed in a former church. Here, you can take your time to admire the thousands of artefacts on display, taking you back in time to the Cancale of yesteryear.
Rain is also a good time (or excuse) to indulge your sweet tooth. The Biscuiterie Cancalaise, for example, is the perfect rainy-weather gourmet stopover. Discover the craftsmanship of biscuit-making, where delicious local creations are crafted with passion.
In the family of religious buildings, in addition to the Notre-Dame du Verger chapel, we invite you to discover theSaint-Méen church. The visit allows you to admire historical and artistic elements, offering an immersion in the local religious heritage, even on a rainy day.
Now it's time for an educational experience! Head for the Ferme Marine de Cancale. Sheltered from the elements, this farm offers an interactive discovery of oyster farming, providing a fascinating insight into the local oyster production process.
Finally, the Cancale soap factory is another charming option for escaping the rain. Discover the craftsmanship involved in making scented soaps, candles and other cosmetics. Great souvenirs to take home with you!
What to do around Cancale?
A visit to Cancale without a stopover in Saint-Malo would be almost criminal! This port town of incomparable charm, between sea and history, leaves no one indifferent. The proof is in these 15 must-see things to do in Saint-Malo during your stay. In the same vein, if you've never visited Mont-Saint-Michel before, this is the perfect opportunity to do so. Note that the visit is more pleasant out of season, due to lower visitor numbers.
The lesser-known village of Combourg is also well worth a visit. Its superb château is complemented by charming medieval streets. A pretty corner of greenery and authenticity, sometimes overlooked, but well worth a visit. Dinard, just half an hour from Cancale, also offers a fine Breton stopover. Bordering the sea, the town has successfully preserved its authenticity. From the beach, the view of the old town is 100% photogenic! Time to spare? The half-timbered houses of Dol-de-Bretagne invite you to contemplate. Stroll through the cobbled streets and let yourself be carried away by the charm of the village. You'll love it! In a similar vein, Dinan is a Ville d'Art et d'Histoire (Town of Art and History), whose cobblestones have some wonderful stories to tell you... A great immersion in Breton architecture and the region's past!
Got a little time left? Continue your Breton journey with these 15 most beautiful villages in Brittany!
Brittany offers a charming mix of coastline, medieval towns and lush greenery. A lovely combo, ensuring a stay full of wonders. Make the most of your stay in the area to attend one of Brittany's best music festivals, La Route du Rock, in Saint-Malo. The region is beautiful, as these 17 must-sees in Brittany show us, discovering 1001 wonders. Which ones will you fall for?
