Bangor Beaches

Overview

Bangor, nestled on the stunning Belle-Île-en-Mer in Brittany, France, offers a captivating beach experience. Its coastline is famously wild and rugged, revealing beautiful sandy beaches and secluded coves tucked between dramatic cliffs. Visitors often wonder about the character of these beaches; expect breathtaking natural scenery and a variety of spots, from sheltered family havens to more exposed shores.

Among the must-visit locations, Plage du Donnant stands out as Belle-Île's iconic surf spot, celebrated for its wild allure and impressive waves. For families, Les Grands Sables is a favourite, being the island's largest beach with calm waters. The dramatic beauty of the wild coast is perfectly captured at Plage d'Herlin, a picturesque beach set against striking cliffs, also noted as a beautiful family beach. Within Bangor itself, Plage de Kérel serves as the primary, accessible, and family-friendly coastal spot, appreciated for its gentle slope.

Many visitors ask if swimming is possible, and indeed, the waters around Bangor are often crystal clear, though the wild coast can present strong currents in some areas. While popular beaches can be lively, Belle-Île is also known for its numerous hidden coves, offering quieter escapes for those willing to explore. For a comprehensive look at all the coastal gems Bangor has to offer, be sure to explore our longer list of beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Bangor, Belle-Île a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Bangor is considered a great spot for family beach holidays. Beaches like Kérel and Herlin are particularly recommended for families due to their calmer waters and beautiful surroundings. Kérel beach, for instance, has a gentle slope, making it safer for children, and Herlin is supervised during summer months.

Plage de Kérel

Plage d'Herlin

What are the beaches in Bangor, Belle-Île like?

The beaches in Bangor are primarily situated along its wild, rugged coastline, facing southwest. This means many are beautiful sandy beaches and coves nestled between cliffs, offering stunning natural scenery. Some are more secluded and may require a bit of a walk or descent to access.

Can you swim at the beaches in Bangor, Belle-Île, and what is the water like?

Yes, you can swim at many beaches in Bangor. The water is often described as crystal clear or turquoise. However, due to the wild coast, some beaches can have strong currents or waves, making swimming dangerous at times. Beaches like Herlin are supervised in summer for safety. Some coves offer calmer waters, and Kerel is noted for warmer waters.

Plage d'Herlin

Plage de Kérel

Are there any surf spots near Bangor, Belle-Île?

Yes, while Bangor itself is more known for its scenic coves, the nearby Plage du Donnant (technically in Sauzon but close to Bangor and often mentioned in its context) is a well-known surf spot in Belle-Île, attracting a young and sporting public with its waves.

Plage du Donnant

Where can I find accommodation near the beaches in Bangor, Belle-Île?

Bangor and the wider Belle-Île-en-Mer offer various accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and holiday rentals. Some hotels like Castel Clara Thalasso & Spa and Le Grand Large offer sea views and proximity to the coast. Smaller guesthouses and rentals can be found in hamlets closer to specific beaches. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

How do you get to the beaches in Bangor, Belle-Île?

Access to beaches in Bangor varies. Some, like Kérel, have nearby parking and are a short walk. Others, particularly the more secluded coves like Yeyew or Dotchot, may involve steeper paths, sometimes described as 'acrobatic' or requiring a 'goat trail'. Cycling is a popular way to reach many beaches, and the island has bus services. For some remote coves, access might primarily be by foot or even by sea.

Plage de Kérel

What is the best time of year to visit Bangor, Belle-Île for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Bangor, Belle-Île is generally during the summer months, from June to August. During this period, the weather is typically warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is ideal for swimming and water activities. Spring and early autumn can also be pleasant with fewer crowds, though water might be cooler.

Are the beaches in Bangor, Belle-Île crowded?

While some popular family beaches like Kérel and Herlin can get busy, especially in peak season, Belle-Île is known for having many coves and beaches, some of which are quite hidden and less frequented. Even the more crowded beaches are generally not compared to the Côte d'Azur in terms of density. Exploring can lead you to quieter spots.

People Also Ask

Are there any 'secret' or hidden gem beaches in Bangor, Belle-Île?

Yes, Bangor and its surroundings on Belle-Île are known for having several 'secret' or unspoilt beaches and coves. Yeyew is often mentioned as a secret beach with crystal clear water, though access can be steep. Grève des Curés is described as a paradisiacal cove. Dotchot is another small, charming cove, though access is also challenging. Exploring the wild coast can reveal these hidden gems.

What are some of the most beautiful beaches in or near Bangor, Belle-Île?

Several beaches in and around Bangor are cited for their beauty. Grève des Curés is noted for its turquoise waters. Yeyew offers transparent waters and stunning views. Herlin is a quiet beach in a double cove. Kerel is perfect for families and sheltered. Donnant (nearby in Sauzon) is vast with fine sand and impressive waves. Baluden enjoys an exceptional setting.

Plage d'Herlin

Plage du Donnant

Are there beaches in Bangor suitable for people with mobility issues?

Access to many of Bangor's beaches, especially those on the wild coast, can be challenging, involving steep descents or uneven paths. For example, Yeyew and Dotchot are known for difficult access. While some beaches like Herlin or Kérel might be relatively more accessible from their car parks, it's best to research specific conditions for each beach if mobility is a concern. Herlin beach has a car park about 400m away, but the final access might still pose challenges.

Plage d'Herlin

Plage de Kérel

What is the 'wild coast' of Bangor like?

The 'wild coast' (côte sauvage) in Bangor is characterized by its rugged and dramatic scenery, with impressive cliffs, rocks shaped by erosion (like the Aiguilles de Port Coton), and exposure to southwesterly winds. It's interspersed with beautiful sandy beaches and coves. This area inspired painters like Claude Monet.

Are there any naturist beaches in Bangor, Belle-Île?

Dotchot beach in Bangor is mentioned as one of the naturist beaches on Belle-Île. However, it's noted that wearing a swimming costume is also acceptable there. Access to Dotchot can be quite steep.

What kind of activities can you do at Bangor's beaches besides swimming?

Besides swimming, Bangor's beaches and the surrounding wild coast offer opportunities for hiking along coastal paths (like the GR340), exploring coves, rock pooling, and simply relaxing. Some beaches like Herlin are suitable for various beach sports, and bodyboarding can be popular when there are rollers. Nearby Donnant beach is known for surfing. The area is also popular for cycling to access beaches.

Plage d'Herlin

Plage du Donnant

Are there facilities like cafes or toilets at the beaches in Bangor?

Facilities vary by beach. More popular and supervised beaches like Herlin may have more amenities, including a first aid station in summer. However, many of Bangor's beaches are wild coves, and it's less likely to find extensive facilities like cafes or public toilets directly on these more secluded beaches. It's advisable to check for specific beaches or plan accordingly.