Plage de Port Maria

Plage de Port Maria is a picturesque beach located in the town of Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys in the Morbihan department of Brittany, France. This small beach, nestled in a quiet cove, is the closest beach to the village of St-Gildas and is situated north of the Port aux Moines. The beach stretches approximately 150 meters, featuring a sandy shore that is strewn with small stones and shells. The sea is easily accessible even at low tide, making it a great place for swimming, although the water may be quite cold. The beach is not supervised for swimming and animals are not permitted. Aside from its sandy shore, Plage de Port Maria is also known for its rocky coastline, which offers multiple points of view of the coast. A trail, which is part of the GR 34 hiking trail, is laid out, maintained, and marked for those who wish to stroll by the sea. Benches are also scattered along the route for visitors to rest and appreciate the beauty of the area. Despite its natural charm, Plage de Port Maria has no specific facilities. Visitors are advised to bring their own beach umbrellas for shade as well as beach shoes due to the presence of small stones and shells on the beach. Access to the beach can be made either from the Rue Pierre Mesmer near the Abbey Church or from the Rue Pierre Michelot near the Port aux Moines. Parking is available near the Abbey of Rhuys, while the path near the Port des Moines requires a 100-meter walk. The beach is reasonably frequented, even in the summer, providing a peaceful setting for visitors. Near the beach is a small port, suitable for motorboats due to its shallow depth. The Bay of Quiberon, a popular spot for sailing, is also located nearby. However, there is no specific mention of how crowded the beach can get.