Aber Wrac'h-Aber Benoît-Saint Pabu

On the rocks

Picture 1 Aber Wrac'h-Aber Benoît-Saint Pabu Picture 2 Aber Wrac'h-Aber Benoît-Saint Pabu Picture 3 Aber Wrac'h-Aber Benoît-Saint Pabu Picture 4 Aber Wrac'h-Aber Benoît-Saint Pabu

The Pays des Abers aka the Coast of Legends is an area of Finistère north of Brest, known for its fjord-like rocky inlets. The Abers are split into three districts: Aber Wrac’h in the north, Aber Benoît to the south and ‘between the Abers’, all with charming villages and spectacular coastline.

Seaweed station

The main village in Aber Wrac’h is Plouguerneau whose main sight is the Écomusée; the museum is dedicated to seaweed gathering, which was the principal economic activity in the area for many years – French speakers might like to join a ‘cooking with seaweed’ class. Aber Wrac’h has nine churches or chapels; Chapelle St-Michel hosts two pardons, one at the end of June and one at the end of September.

A long climb

Just off the coast of Aber Wrac’h is the Île Vierge, which has two lighthouses – one is the highest in Europe at 270ft (82.5m); climb the 397 steps to the viewing platform if you dare. Boat trips go from Port de Perros or the Port de l’Aber Wrac’h with Vedettes des Abers.

Water sports initiation

The peninsula between Aber Wrac’h and Aber Benoît has two main villages: Lanillis and Landéda. Lanillis, once a thriving centre for pottery and weaving, has some lovely privately owned manor houses while Landéda, as well as having the remains of a convent and a fort, is the location of the area’s main port where you’ll find several centres offering tuition in sailing, diving or kayaking.

Treasure trove

Aber Benoît is best known for its oyster farming but its villages are equally as interesting. In Tréglonou, a unique gold and pearl necklace was found during an archaeological dig in 1985; there’s a copy of it in the town hall (the actual one is in the Musée Départemental Breton in Quimper). Also in the village is a restored 19th-century fisherman’s house. The sandy beaches of St-Pabu form a dune system, which is recognised for its flora and fauna.

Outstanding views

Keen walkers and cyclists are in for a treat as the GR34 old customs officers’ path passes along the Abers’ coast. The 10 mile (16k) stretch from Plouguerneau to Landéda will take you past chapels and ancient stones but most of all offer you great views.

Did you know?

You can taste the local oysters in the farmer’s restaurant in Prat-ar-Coum, which is only open in July and August.

Useful links

Abers tourist center