Ile-De-Sein: Island Paths and Lighthouse

The Île de Sein is car-free and can be explored on foot. It is about two kilometres long and no more than 500 metres wide. Some lanes are no wider than 85 centimetres; this is as much a part of the scale of the place as its low, treeless heathland. During spring tides, this landscape can be temporarily flooded.

Landscape, Sea and Consideration

The island lies in the extension of Pointe du Raz and, together with Ouessant and the Molène Archipelago, forms part of the Réserve de biosphère de la mer d’Iroise. In clear weather, Ar Men may be visible about ten kilometres west of the island; whether the view is unobstructed depends on the weather. Do not take any pebbles or pile them up. Also avoid disturbing coastal birds nesting on the ground.

Getting to the Island and Getting Around

The ferry from Audierne operates year-round and takes about an hour. Penn Ar Bed and Finist'mer offer this service from there. In bad weather, the departure may be moved to Douarnenez; in that case, the crossing takes two hours. The sea route passes close to Pointe du Raz, Phare de La Vieille and Raz de Sein. Its exact route depends on the operator and conditions. If you are looking for a hotel for your trip, take the departure point and crossing time into account when planning. Check the details for your travel date in advance, as operators and departure points may change.

A path towards Phare de Goulenez passes a chapel and goémon kilns. A turn-off leads inland, where you can discover natural and cultural heritage. Radooo also focuses on the island’s natural and cultural heritage. The free map “Évadez-vous sur l’île de Sein” is available at maritime stations; check in advance whether it is being distributed there, as distribution may change.

Lighthouse, Chapel and Island Culture

The Phare de l’île de Sein is a listed monument. Built in 1950, the lighthouse replaced the first lighthouse, dating from 1839, which was destroyed during the Second World War. Its functions include maritime signalling, seawater desalination and electricity generation for the island; its technical specifications may change. The Chapelle Saint-Corentin stands near the Grand Phare. According to tradition, sailors turned the saint’s crozier towards the winds they wanted.

Over coffee, you can visit the workshops of ceramic artist Christelle Le Dortz and painter Didier Marie Le Bihan. Arrange a visit in advance, as access and participating artists may change. Ragoût de homard is considered an island speciality. Menus may change; check current menus if you are specifically looking for the dish.

Discover more destinations: Pouldreuzic, Pouldergat, Concarneau, Saint-Méen, Lannéanou, Lilia, Guilvinec, Querrien

For the broader travel overview: Finistere.