The northern part of the peninsula is a veritable paradise for hikers and nature lovers, who will have a field day on the coastal path swept by a gentle sea breeze. We begin our exploration in the small village of Saint-Armel, with its famous salt marshes, whose iridescent surface lights up with a thousand fires in the sunlight. The area is a particular favourite with birdwatchers, who will be able to observe at their leisure the many species of migratory birds that have found refuge here.
A 25-kilometre long arm of the Gulf of Morbihan, the Rhuys peninsula offers the best of both worlds. On the north side, along the pretty coastal path, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Bay, with its luminous salt marshes, oyster beds and small fishing ports with their typically Breton charm.
On the peninsula's southern coast, the full force of the ocean is on display, with rocky points offering sumptuous panoramic views of the maritime horizon and exhilarating waves crashing against the cliffs. One of the most beautiful beaches in the area, it's also a paradise for swimmers and kitesurfers. The choice is yours, from long stretches of fine sand fringed by dunes to small, unspoilt coves with crystal-clear waters. Combining a gentle way of life with a coastline full of character, the Rhuys peninsula is a destination of choice.
The Dukes of Brittany made no mistake when they built their second homes here, bequeathing to us the superb Château de Suscinio, a veritable heritage treasure that will delight history and fortress enthusiasts.

Rhuys Peninsula
- © Cecile Haupas / ShutterstockThe Gulf side of the Rhuys peninsula

Marshes near the village of Armel, Golfe du Morbihan
- © bensliman hassan / ShutterstockSaint-Armel is also a first-rate gourmet destination. People come from far and wide to sample the famous gotchial, a local speciality dating back to the 19th century, halfway between bread and brioche. You can try it in the bakery Le Moulin à café, a veritable institution in Saint-Armel. A very pleasant sweet break after a nice iodised walk...
And if you still haven't had enough, take a trip to the Biscuiterie des Vénètes to fill up on kouign amann, salted butter caramel, apple-cider jam and other Breton sweets.

Kouign amann, the famous Breton cake
- © Andrei Antipov / ShutterstockBut let's not forget the oysters, the real stars of the Rhuys peninsula. Along the coastal path, stop off at Les Viviers du Ruault, an oyster farm offering oyster tastings on elegant wooden tables overlooking the Gulf of Morbihan. The view is particularly magnificent at sunset, when the bay turns pink and purple. Open 6/7 from 9.30am to 8.30pm for takeaway and tasting at any time of day (no booking required). Tasting plate with 6 oysters + 1 glass: €7.50.
Why not discover the Golfe du Morbihan from below? With its calm, clear waters and rich flora and fauna, it's a great place for scuba diving. The lucky ones might even spot seahorses! Visit the H2JO diving centre in Arzon, which offers first dives and underwater excursions. Please note that a medical certificate is required. Information on 02 97 53 62 73.
Ocean side

Boats in Port-Navalo
- © Pack-Shot / ShutterstockThe south coast of the Rhuys peninsula is particularly attractive, with a wealth of wonders to discover, starting with the charming Port-Navalo, the ideal landing stage for visiting the islands of the Gulf and the Atlantic. Dominated by its emblematic green and white lighthouse, Port-Navalo is the junction of the two bays, Mor Braz and Mor Bihan. The meeting of the two seas sometimes forms swirling eddies that are particularly impressive to watch from the beautiful panoramic promenade that links the friendly Port-Navalo beach to the marina.

Miramar La Cigale Hotel Thalasso & Spa
Located in Arzon, Miramar La Cigale faces the Atlantic Ocean.The town is also home to one of the region's finest gastronomic restaurants, Le Grand Largue. Situated on the old port and boasting a sublime view of the Gulf of Morbihan and its constellation of islands, this establishment offers a refined menu that highlights the marriage of land and sea. Unctuous scallop risotto and blanquette of monkfish with braised breast are on the menu for a feast for the taste buds. Open Tuesday to Saturday from 12:00 to 13:30 and from 19:15 to 21:30, and on Sunday from 12:00 to 13:30.

Suscinio Castle
- © Boris Stroujko / ShutterstockThe must-see on the Rhuys peninsula is, of course, the Château de Suscinio, a fantastic medieval fortress that once belonged to the Dukes of Brittany. Its majestic silhouette, reflected in the water of the marshes, is an invitation to daydream and contemplate. All the typical features of medieval fortified castles can be found here: curtain wall, parapet walk, drawbridge, loopholes, machicolations... A veritable film set for imagining yourself as a valiant knight or powerful lord. The permanent exhibitions tell you more about the history of the castle and its occupants, and a whole section is devoted to the myths that have imbued Brittany, from Arthurian legends to the famous Merlin the Enchanter. Throughout the summer, events (workshops, shows, guided tours, etc.) are offered and included in the visit. Check the events calendar on the castle website.
The château is open from 10am to 7pm in April, June and September and from 9.30am to 7.30pm in July and August. Admission costs €11.50 for full price and €6 for reduced price. Admission is free for children under 10.

Landrezac beach
- © Mada_Cris / ShutterstockNear Château de Suscinio, you'll find the beautiful beach at Landrezac. With its dazzling white sand and peaceful waters, it's ideal for swimming. Friendly and tranquil, it's a firm favourite with families. In July and August, swimming is supervised.

Abbey of Saint-Gildas de Rhuys
- © Pack-Shot / ShutterstockFor something to eat or drink, head to La Cave de Rhuys, a friendly wine bar serving tasty local cuisine in a cosy, warm atmosphere. Open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 9.30am to 7pm, Friday from 9.30am to 7.30pm, Saturday from 9.30am to 8.30pm and Sunday from 9.30am to 2pm.

Cala cerca de Saint-Gildas de Rhuys
- © Killian M / Shutterstock