Why Choose Quiberon as the Starting Point for the Breton Islands?

Quiberon is the perfect starting point to explore the Breton islands. Located at the tip of its peninsula, this seaside resort enjoys a strategic geographical position, providing quick access to islands such as Belle-Île-en-Mer, Houat, and Hoëdic. Its well-equipped port and fast, year-round ferry connections to the islands (30 to 60 minutes on average) make it a preferred choice for travelers.

Quiberon: a privileged gateway to the Breton islands

An ideal location at the end of the peninsula

Quiberon is ideally situated at the tip of its peninsula, which stretches out into the Atlantic Ocean. This unique geographical position makes it the closest departure port to the offshore islands, allowing for short, direct crossings.

Although the area is often busy during the summer months, several travel options make getting to Quiberon smooth and hassle-free. In high season, the famous “Tire-Bouchon” train runs from Auray to Quiberon along the wild coast, offering a scenic journey with no traffic stress. The BreizhGo coach network also provides convenient and regular connections to the port. A wide range of departure and return times allows you to board early and return late, helping you avoid peak traffic times.

A well-served port with regular crossings

Quiberon’s port and ferry terminal are fully equipped to welcome travelers heading to Belle-Île-en-Mer, Houat, and Hoëdic all year round. With numerous daily departures, visitors enjoy maximum flexibility when planning their day trips or longer stays. Thanks to BreizhGo Océane, the ferry services are frequent and tailored to suit all types of travelers.

How to reach the Breton islands from Quiberon

Belle-Île-en-Mer, the largest of the Breton islands

With its striking landscapes — rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and colorful harbors — Belle-Île-en-Mer appeals to hikers, families, and heritage lovers alike. From Quiberon, the ferry ride to Le Palais, the island’s main port, takes about 50 minutes. In summer only, a direct connection to Sauzon is also available, cutting the crossing time to just 30 minutes. A great way to make the most of the island, even on a day trip.

Houat and Hoëdic, hidden gems waiting to be discovered

Smaller but equally enchanting, Houat and Hoëdic offer a total escape, also accessible from Quiberon. In Houat, paradise-like beaches and scenic coastal trails await nature lovers. Hoëdic, more intimate and lesser known, reveals an authentic charm, with its dunes, chapels, and fishermen’s cottages.

Crossing durations and ferry fares

This is one of the major advantages of choosing Quiberon as your departure point: its immediate proximity to the Breton islands allows for quick ferry crossings, perfect for day trips or short stays.

In high season, the direct Quiberon – Sauzon route allows you to reach Belle-Île-en-Mer in just 30 minutes. Other crossings to Le Palais take around 50 minutes. The ferry to Houat takes 40 minutes, and after a brief stopover, you can reach Hoëdic in an additional 25 minutes.

Tickets are available for one-way or round trips, with various options based on passenger profile (adult, youth, child, frequent traveler, etc.). For peace of mind, especially in the summer, booking online is highly recommended, allowing you to plan your trip with ease and make the most of your island getaway.

Make the most of Quiberon before or after your crossing

Where to park in Quiberon before boarding

Parking rules vary depending on the time of year. From the Easter holidays to the All Saints’ break, we recommend using the “Parking des Îles” at the entrance to Quiberon. A free shuttle service will take you directly to the ferry terminal. During the rest of the year, other parking options are available, either close to the port or slightly further away. Luggage lockers are also available at Quiberon’s ferry terminal, so you can store your bags and explore the town freely before or after your crossing.

What to do in Quiberon while waiting for the ferry

Quiberon is much more than a boarding point: it’s a destination in itself, well worth discovering — even just for a short stroll before or after your ferry ride. Just steps from the port, enjoy a walk along Quiberon’s main beach, perfect for sunbathing or a quick dip.

A few minutes away on foot, the Wild Coast (Côte Sauvage) offers dramatic scenery, with wind-swept cliffs and coastal trails, ideal for a refreshing walk with stunning ocean views.

Craving a gourmet break? Quiberon is a haven for food lovers: creperies, local biscuit shops, artisan ice cream, seafood, and of course, kouign-amann, the famous Breton butter cake. Don’t miss a stop at the renowned Maison d’Armorine, where Quiberon’s iconic Niniches lollipops are made.

For the curious, Quiberon also offers a few cultural gems such as the Quiberon Museum and the Pointe du Conguel. If you’re arriving the day before or leaving the day after your island trip, immerse yourself in the lively Breton port atmosphere, with its local market, fishing boats, and breathtaking sunsets over the bay.