Locmaria: Coastal Paths, Coves and History

Discover Locmaria on Belle-Île through its distinctive coastal landmarks, beaches, paths and historic sites. If you’re looking for a hotel in Locmaria, these different themes can help you plan your stay: views and coastal scenery, walks, a beach visit, or history and local produce. The features below offer specific points to help guide your choice.

Coastal Landmarks and Beaches

Pointe du Skeul is the highest point on Belle-Île and offers remarkable panoramic views stretching to the horizon. Pointe de Kerdonis marks the transition between the wild coast facing the ocean and the gentler coast facing the mainland. Phare de Kerdonis is one of Belle-Île’s three lighthouses. Together, a viewpoint, a change in coastal character and a named lighthouse represent different aspects of the island landscape.

The beaches each have their own described features. Plage des Grands Sables is very well sheltered from westerly winds, with calm water and a sandy tidal area. Belle-Ile Horizon offers sailing lessons there and rents kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. Lessons and rentals are seasonal services and their operation may change; check in advance whether they will be available during your visit.

Plage de Port Blanc has fine sand and faces east-northeast. Plage de la Biche is sheltered in a small cove among schist rocks. When comparing them, you can weigh up their different descriptions: calm water and a tidal area at Grands Sables, sand and orientation at Port Blanc, or the sheltered rocky cove at la Biche.

Paths from Locmaria

The “Autour de Locmaria” route starts in Locmaria and runs via Pointe du Skeul to Pointe de Kerdonis at the island’s southeastern tip. The Boucle Locmaria – Port Andro also starts in Locmaria and offers elevated views of coves and sandy beaches. It is open to hikers, walkers and trail runners. The two descriptions emphasize different things: the first route is described as going as far as Pointe de Kerdonis, while the Boucle focuses on views and the expressly listed activities. Trail conditions may change; check them before setting out.

Church, Garden and Local Oysters

Eglise Notre-Dame de Locmaria was consecrated in 1070 by the monks of Sainte-Croix de Quimperlé Abbey. It is the oldest religious building on Belle-Île-en-Mer. The year of its consecration provides a specific historical reference; the description of it as the oldest religious building applies to the entire island.

Jardin du Théâtre du Bord du Champ can be visited daily by prior reservation. As reservation arrangements may change, check the conditions for your visit in advance. The oysters from Huîtres de Cochennec are another local highlight: they are farmed in Locmaria and visitors can sample them. Their availability at markets or restaurants may vary.

Discover more destinations: Lantillac, Saint-Philibert, Riantec, Melrand, Treffléan, Billio, Arradon, Guilliers.

For the regional travel overview: Morbihan.