Locronan France

Day 45 Thursday 18 June 2026

We had lovely day exploring the coast from Pointe Du Van to the port town of Douarnenez. We then strolled around the classified pretty village of Locronan before settling in a parking spot on Lestrevet Beach completing 82km today.

This area of Brittany is called Finistère meaning the end of the earth, and the name is very fitting here, with a procession of headlands and capes that brave the open sea. As we drive along we see some pretty villages that remind us of Ireland.

Pointe du Van (2013) is a wild, unspoilt spot. With its 70-metre cliffs and exposure to the elements, this land of heather and moors, is known for its stunning panoramic views.  From here, the views are captivating and impressive: as we looked out onto the adjoining Pointe du Raz, La Vieille lighthouse and the Île de Sein .

We parked up for breakfast and walked down to a small harbour.

We then drove to the official parking area which had many motorhomes that appeared to have stayed the night.

We walked to the iconic chapel, Saint They, which has been classed as an Historic Monument. 

There are many spots along the coast that we can stop to walk or just enjoy the view. Our next stop was at Pointe de Brezellec. This small carpark was also jammed packed with motorhomes. We managed to get a spot and walk down to another picturesque harbour. This one had more boats in it as it had better access but no boat ramp. They can use a winch system to hoist their belongings or catch if they cant carry them up the steep steps.

Pointe de Millier is also popular but the carpark has too much fall for motorhomes to comfortably stay here. We parked up walked out to a small lighthouse.   It was built in 1881 at the entrance to the bay of Douarnenez .  It is quite uniquea as it is 'be made up of a half-recessed tower in what was originally the caretaker's house. Built in granite and covered with slate and zinc, the 8.40 m high lighthouse overlooks the sea from 36 m.alt. Electrified in 1965, automated in 1993, the Millier lighthouse has a range of 12 nautical miles (approximately 22 km).

Built in 1868, Keriolet Mill is tucked away in a valley, protected from the wind, in a setting that looks like something out of a fairytale. The 8-metre-diameter paddle-wheel is propelled by a stream that runs through the surrounding moss, fern and granite blocks. Restored in 2008, it now produces organic milled flour and honey.

Back in Bluey we go and do a bit of shopping in Douarnenez (2022) and have a bit of a drive around the port area. 

Locronan -The Celts chose this site to create a nemeton, a sacred pathway with stations symbolising the 12 months of the year.  In the 6th century, Saint Ronan Christianised the site and the town was born. Now called Locronan, it gained in wealth and beauty from the 14th century thanks to weaving sailcloth. Trade was established with all the large fleets, leading to fortune and the construction of harmonious granite houses. The building walls have remained true to their origins.

Although we did visit here in 2013 it had been early in the morning and shops were closed.. today there were people and many shops selling local produce and restaurants open for lunch. 

It was quite different due to all the buildings being made out of the local granite.

We decided whilst we were so close to the coast and it isn’t the holiday season yet, we would try our luck and park near a beach. We ended up at Lestrevet with a few others.

The sun was out, the sea breeze was lovely. We enjoyed a walk and later watched the sun go down.

Later the tide came in…