Seaside walks and spa treatments in Brittany

On the western side of the Quiberon peninsula, the Wild Coast (Côte sauvage) is an impressive spectacle of around 10 kilometres. This is a favourite surfer’s hotspot, alive with sea-spray. Across the bay, enjoy peace and quiet in the best seaside resorts and eat in gourmet restaurants with sea views.

At the Sofitel Quiberon Thalassa Sea & Spa, you can try the signature massage, ‘Absolue de Genêt’. This treatment uses Kos beauty oil created exclusively with the Sofitel Quiberon, and is inspired by broom, an emblem of the Brittany coast. Hot pebbles boost the effectiveness of the treatment and its rehydrating qualities.

Head for the Rhuys Peninsula, a sandy promontory enclosing the inland sea that gives its name to the Department. Take one of the many walks along the vast sandy beaches beside the Atlantic, among the megalithic sites, or beside the Gulf overlooking its myriad of islands.

Cruise into well-being at the Miramar La Cigale, the spa just behind the beaches, which is shaped like a cruise-liner. You can try unusual treatments such as Marine Spirulina therapies. Rich in minerals and trace elements, this seaweed, grown in Brittany, has antioxidant and remineralising qualities and is used in new-generation cosmetics.

The huge tides in Brittany are a good enough reason in themselves to make the trip. The tidal range in Saint-Malo is especially impressive: watch the incoming waves crash against the Corsair City from the top of its famous ramparts, filling your lungs with invigorating sea air. A ‘must see’ experience!

After a nice stroll along Sillon beach, the Thermes Marins is the perfect place for some well-being therapy. After a session in the Aquatonic® pool, treat yourself to some of the unique treatments: an oyster-shell powder scrub followed by a body wrap of Laminaria seaweed and samphire floral water. Experience the concentrated aromas and benefits of the sea in a treatment room facing the ocean.

From Saint-Nazaire to Guérande via Croisic’s Wild Coast, the stretch of shoreline known as the Côte d’Amour offers the chance to relax and take bracing walks beside the Atlantic. At the heart of the bay is the famous La Baule beach, one of the largest in Europe and the perfect place for long walks breathing lungfuls sea air.

Close to the beach, in the intimate surroundings of the Hotel Garden’s spa, treat yourself to the ‘Voyage à La Baule’: a ritual with a local flavour that helps you to completely let go. A sand scrub, a seaweed body wrap and a massage with shells from the bay will dissolve every last knot of tension.