Vannes Beaches

Overview

Vannes offers a unique blend of historic city charm and coastal adventure, making it an ideal destination for travelers who want more than just a beach holiday. While the city itself is famed for its medieval old town and bustling port, it also serves as the perfect base for exploring the countless coves, islands, and sandy stretches of the Gulf of Morbihan. This dual identity allows visitors to enjoy cultural sightseeing and seaside relaxation all in one trip.

From the city, a world of diverse beaches is within easy reach. Vannes has its very own city beach, Plage de Conleau, a lively spot with a distinctive natural seawater pool. For a classic day trip, the expansive Grande Plage de Carnac is a must-see, located near the world-famous megalithic alignments. If an island escape is what you crave, a short ferry ride takes you to the picture-perfect cove of Plage du Gored on Île-aux-Moines. Meanwhile, adrenaline seekers will find their paradise at Plage de Landrezac, the region's premier destination for kitesurfing.

The coastline around Vannes presents two distinct characters: the sheltered, calm waters of the Gulf's beaches and the long, wave-swept shores of the open Atlantic. This variety ensures there is a perfect beach for every preference, whether you're looking for a quiet family swim or a thrilling water sports session. For a complete look at all the seaside gems this region has to offer, be sure to explore our longer list of the area's best beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Does Vannes have its own beach?

Yes, Vannes has one beach called Plage de Conleau. It's a relatively small, sheltered beach located on the Conleau peninsula, about 5 kilometers south of the city center. It features a unique seawater swimming pool that is accessible at high tide, making it popular with families. The area is lively, with many surrounding restaurants and cafes.

Plage de Conleau

Is the water warm enough for swimming in Vannes?

The water in the Gulf of Morbihan is generally cool. Average summer water temperatures hover around 18°C (64°F), peaking in August. While many people enjoy swimming, especially on warm days, the water doesn't reach the temperatures of the Mediterranean. The water on the Gulf side, including the islands, can be up to 2°C warmer than the open Atlantic coast.

What's the best time of year for a beach holiday in Vannes?

The best time for a beach-focused holiday in Vannes is from June to September. During these months, the weather is warmest, with average air temperatures between 18-22°C (64-72°F). July and August are the peak months with the most sunshine and activity, but also the biggest crowds. For a quieter experience with pleasant weather, consider June or early September.

How do I get to the beaches from Vannes city center?

To reach Plage de Conleau, you can drive, take a public bus (Line 7), or enjoy a scenic 5km walk or bike ride from the port. For beaches outside Vannes, like those on the Rhuys Peninsula or near Carnac, driving is the most convenient option. Local bus networks (Kicéo) also serve many coastal towns, and during the summer, special beach shuttles may operate.

Plage de Conleau

Can you recommend a good beach within a 30-minute drive of Vannes?

A popular choice among locals and visitors is the beach of Goh Velin in Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys, located on the Atlantic side of the Rhuys Peninsula, about a 30-minute drive from Vannes. It's a large, sandy beach perfect for a classic day by the sea. On the Gulf side, the beaches around Arradon are even closer and offer calmer waters.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Plage des Govelins

Are the beaches near Vannes good for families with children?

Yes, many beaches in the area are family-friendly. Plage de Conleau in Vannes has a shallow, protected seawater pool. The beaches on the Gulf of Morbihan side are generally calmer with gentler slopes than the Atlantic-facing ones. Beaches like Fogeo in Arzon and the Grande Plage in Carnac are popular with families and are often supervised during the summer months.

Plage de Conleau

Grande Plage de Carnac

Should I go to the beaches on the Gulf side or the Atlantic side?

It depends on your preference. The Gulf of Morbihan beaches are typically smaller, more sheltered coves with calmer, slightly warmer water, ideal for relaxed swimming and families. The Atlantic-facing beaches, for instance on the Quiberon or Rhuys peninsulas, are long, sandy stretches with more waves, making them better for surfing and enjoying a classic open-sea experience.

Are there any hidden gem beaches away from the crowds?

Yes, the Gulf of Morbihan has many small, intimate coves that feel like local secrets. On the Rhuys Peninsula, you can find quieter spots away from the main beaches. Exploring the coastal paths (GR34) or taking a boat to one of the smaller islands, like Île d'Arz, can lead you to more secluded beaches that are less frequented by tourists.

People Also Ask

Is Vannes more of a city break or a beach holiday destination?

Vannes offers a combination of both. It's a historic medieval city with a charming old town, ramparts, and a bustling port, making it a fantastic city break destination. Its location on the Gulf of Morbihan also makes it an excellent base for a beach holiday, allowing you to explore the numerous beaches and islands of the region. It's ideal for travelers who want to mix cultural sightseeing with coastal relaxation.

What are the beaches like on the islands in the Gulf of Morbihan?

The islands, such as Île aux Moines and Île d'Arz, feature numerous small, charming beaches and coves. These beaches are often quiet and set in beautiful natural landscapes. The water here is typically calmer and slightly warmer than on the Atlantic coast. Reaching them requires a short ferry trip, which adds to the sense of adventure.

Are there hotels with direct beach access in or near Vannes?

While Vannes' city center is not on a beach, you can find hotels with seaside locations nearby. The Best Western Plus Le Roof is situated right on the Conleau peninsula with views of the Gulf. On the surrounding peninsulas and in coastal towns like Arzon and Sarzeau, there are several hotels and rentals offering direct access to or panoramic views of the sea and beaches.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What is the vibe at Plage de Conleau?

Plage de Conleau has a lively, local vibe. It's considered a leisure spot for the people of Vannes, especially families. The area is bustling with activity due to the nearby restaurants, cafes, and the 'guinguette' (open-air cafe/bar) atmosphere. It's less of a remote nature beach and more of a social, urban seaside spot.

Plage de Conleau

Are there any rules I should know about for beaches near Vannes, like about dogs or smoking?

Yes, rules can vary by beach. For example, Plage de Conleau is a non-smoking beach and dogs are not permitted. Many of the larger, supervised beaches have similar restrictions, especially during the peak season (July and August). It's always best to check the signs at the beach entrance for the most current regulations.

Plage de Conleau

For beaches, is it better to stay in Vannes or a coastal town like Carnac?

Staying in Vannes is ideal if you want to combine exploring a historic city with day trips to various beaches around the Gulf. If your holiday is purely focused on the beach, staying in a coastal town like Carnac or Arzon would be better, as you'll be right by large, sandy Atlantic beaches and have a more traditional seaside resort experience.

Are there opportunities for water sports at the beaches near Vannes?

Yes, the Gulf of Morbihan is a major hub for sailing and boating. You can also find opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding, especially on the calmer Gulf-side beaches. The Atlantic-facing beaches, with more wind and waves, are better suited for activities like windsurfing and kitesurfing.