Pedal Ventures
Brittany, located in the northwest corner of France, is renowned for its stunning coastal landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage. However, it's the region's world-class seafood that truly sets it apart as a gastronomic destination. Imagine cycling through picturesque towns, pedaling along the rugged coastline, and indulging in the freshest seafood you’ve ever tasted. Welcome to the ultimate foodie bike tour in Brittany, where the thrill of cycling meets the joys of French culinary delights.
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best cycling routes in Brittany, with a special focus on the region’s top seafood destinations. From oysters to mussels and everything in between, get ready to experience the best of Brittany's coastal cuisine while enjoying a memorable cycling adventure.
Brittany is a paradise for both cyclists and food lovers, offering a perfect blend of outdoor activity and gastronomic delights. Here’s why Brittany should be on your radar:
To make your cycling and seafood tour in Brittany truly unforgettable, here are some of the best routes that will take you through stunning landscapes, coastal towns, and, of course, the region's best seafood spots.
The Côte de Granit Rose (Pink Granite Coast) is one of Brittany’s most famous and visually striking stretches of coastline. As you cycle through this route, you’ll be treated to dramatic pink-hued rock formations, sandy beaches, and picturesque seaside villages. This route is relatively gentle, making it accessible for cyclists of all levels.
Along the way, you can stop at the charming coastal town of Perros-Guirec and enjoy some of Brittany's finest seafood at local restaurants, with mussels, oysters, and crabs often featured prominently on the menu. The town’s proximity to the sea means you’re never far from the freshest catches of the day.
Seafood Spot: Visit Le Saint-Guirec restaurant in Perros-Guirec, renowned for its seafood platters featuring mussels, oysters, and shellfish caught just offshore.
The Gulf of Morbihan, a vast, sheltered bay on the southern coast of Brittany, is another ideal area for cyclists. The route takes you through the beautiful Vannes and its surrounding islands, including the famous Île-aux-Moines. The calm waters of the gulf and the tranquil roads make this a great route for cyclists who want to enjoy a more relaxed pace.
Morbihan is particularly famous for its oysters, and you’ll have the chance to sample these succulent treats in several fishing villages along the route. The bay is home to numerous oyster farms, so be sure to stop at one of the local huts for a fresh plate of Belon oysters, a regional specialty.
Seafood Spot: Le Cale de L'Océan in Vannes is an excellent spot to enjoy the freshest oysters and other local seafood, offering views of the beautiful Gulf of Morbihan.
This cycling route takes you along the stunning coastline of southern Brittany, through picturesque seaside towns like Carnac and Auray, before arriving at the Ria d'Etel. This region is famous for its pristine beaches, towering cliffs, and the unique Ria, a winding inlet where the river meets the sea.
Along the way, you can sample mussels, scallops, and clams, which are harvested from the surrounding waters. The region is known for its moules marinières (mussels cooked in white wine and garlic), which you can enjoy in any of the coastal restaurants.
Seafood Spot: In the town of Auray, La Table de Breizh Café offers a delectable selection of local seafood dishes, including fresh mussels and lobster.
The Isle of Ouessant is a remote, rugged island located off the west coast of Brittany, known for its dramatic landscapes, wild coastline, and a strong maritime culture. While it’s a smaller island, cycling here allows you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.
The island is home to fishermen’s huts where fresh seafood is brought ashore daily. You’ll have the opportunity to taste local fish dishes, lobster, and crab that are prepared with simple yet fresh ingredients. As a cyclist, you can spend the day exploring the island's stunning cliffs, sandy beaches, and the famous Ouessant lighthouse.
Seafood Spot: Enjoy fresh lobster and crab at Le Cormoran, a local restaurant with an unbeatable view of the ocean and a reputation for its seafood dishes.
The Côte des Légendes, or the "Coast of Legends," is a hidden gem in Brittany, offering a stunning mix of rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and dramatic cliffs. This route is perfect for those who enjoy cycling through peaceful, lesser-known areas, with plenty of stops to enjoy delicious seafood along the way.
The route takes cyclists to the charming Plouguerneau and Lilia, where you can sample freshly caught seafood, including oysters, mussels, and cockles, often served as part of a classic seafood platter.
Seafood Spot: La Table de Lila in Plouguerneau is a popular stop for cyclists, serving up generous portions of shellfish and oysters straight from the coast.
When cycling through Brittany, you’ll want to savor some of the region’s most iconic seafood dishes. Here are some must-try options:
Cycling through Brittany is a feast for the senses, with stunning coastal views, picturesque towns, and, of course, mouthwatering seafood. From mussels and oysters to lobster and scallops, the region offers some of the freshest and most delicious seafood dishes in the world. Combine this with the joy of cycling through some of France’s most scenic routes, and you’ve got the ultimate foodie adventure.
So, grab your bike, pack your appetite, and get ready to cycle through Brittany’s beautiful landscapes, indulging in its world-class seafood along the way. Bon appétit!
