The 7 essential things to do on the Island of Sein

Do you want to change air and discover a unique and authentic Brittany? For this, take the sea to visit Sein Island!

It is not said enough, but Brittany, in addition to being a multifaceted region, has many islands. Sein Island is one of them, located about 7 kilometers from the Pointe du Raz, in the south of Finistère. It is both the name of the island and its only commune. Visiting Sein Island is discovering a terrestrial paradise that attracts tens of thousands of tourists every year.

No car runs on the island, except the fire truck. So everything is on foot or by bike. Except in the summer, where the bicycle is prohibited for security reasons! That said, given the area of the island, you will have no difficulty following the path. You may even get lost in the narrow streets of the town! Visiting Sein Island is very easy in addition to being magical, so let yourself be tempted!

1. The lighthouses of the island

You will not be able to visit Sein Island in its entirety. Not that it is too large, on the contrary, but its territory extends beyond its edges. Indeed, many small islets are part of Sein Island. On one of them is also a lighthouse, among the best known in Brittany: the lighthouse of Ar-Men . No disappointment, the island still has two lighthouses that you can approach.

Great Lighthouse of Sein Island (Goulenez)

Located at the northeast tip of the island, the Lighthouse of Goulenez and its 52 meters high allow to guide the boats and to prevent them from sinking. Bonus: you can climb up. For this, there are some 250 steps waiting for you! But once at the top, the reward is much worth the effort. A stunning 360-degree view of Sein Island and the Atlantic Ocean.

Attention, you have to pay your ascent: 2€ for children, 3€ for adults . This participates in building maintenance.

Phare de Men Brial

Men Brial’s lighthouse is the first you will see from the island. And for cause, it is at the port entrance. Less impressive than its neighbours, there is no less photogenic.

2. The Museographic Space of Sein Island

After a closure for renovation, the Espace muséographique de l’Île de Sein allows you to learn a lot about the rescue at sea. Indeed, the Raz de Sein, a maritime route between the island of Pointe du Raz is a fairly dangerous area, because the current is strong and sometimes shaking reefs.

Many rescues were possible thanks to the presence of the SNSM on the island. This space thus traces this Seenane History rich in events. In addition, it offers you the opportunity to visit the Island of Sein as it was once: daily life, inhabitants... A pedagogical visit, sensitizing to life on the island.

3. The town of Sein Island

To visit the Island of Sein, you will undoubtedly pass through its town. It is indeed very special and therefore worth the detour. The streets are very narrow, to cut the wind, given the absence of trees on the island.

The town then becomes the ideal place to lose, discover the gables, alleys, walls of each house. At the turn of one of them, you may meet a resident who will be happy to tell you the island and its history.

4. The Monument of the Free French Naval Forces

If you are passionate about history with the capital, you will never miss the Monument of the Free French Naval Forces (FNFL).

This monument was erected in honour of the soldiers of Sein Island who participated in the evacuation of Dunkirk with their fishing boats. A nice way to pay them a last tribute.

5. The canoe-kayak tour around the island

After all, why not visit Sein Island from the water? If you can have fun and exercise a physical activity, then go! Just over 2h , you can tour the island! Also, it is not impossible for you to cross the local aquatic fauna!

Of course, you will not be alone, a guide will accompany you to monitor the handling of the equipment. And most importantly, if you go back! kayak accidents are rare, but since the zero risk does not exist, it is better to be predictive.

Kayak fishing

For fishing enthusiasts, you will be able to opt for kayaking! And yes, besides practicing activity, you will tickle the funds and maybe bring back your evening meal. On reservation, this activity is supervised by professionals.

6. The guided tour of Sein Island

Visiting Sein Island can also be done by surveying its land. This is the occasion of a guided tour! About two hours of walking, during which a companion tells you the history of the island. His past, his present, and perhaps some of his future. Learn more about the lives of the inhabitants, which marked their lives and how they manage their insularity today. Anecdotes or historical facts, this guided tour will delight your thirst to learn more about this small island at the end of the Finistère.

7. The beach

When you visit Sein Island, you will see that the entire coast is not made up of small rocky tips. Indeed, there are still a few beaches where you can spend a quiet moment.

Far from the tumult, but near the seaweeds and their odors, you can relax in the face of the vast ocean that offers you. Take the time to enjoy, and let the soul of the island invade you!

How do I go to Sein Island?

The big city closest to Sein Island is Quimper, where an airport and a train station are served by the rest of the country. Find an interesting offer on our partner's website Skyscanner . However, there are not many different ways to go to Sein Island. Indeed, this language of land is only accessible by sea!

Shuttle

• A permanent link between the continent and the island is ensured by the Compagnie Maritime Penn ar Bed. The journey lasts about 50min and is made from Audierne. Note that in the event of poor weather conditions, the departure is from the city of Douarnenez and extends the one-hour journey. In high season, departures are possible from Brest or Camaret-sur-Mer.
• Another company, Finist’mer Also opens a summer connection from Audierne. Learn from these two companies and choose the one you prefer.

By pleasure boat

If you own your own boat or decide to do so rent a rental , you will have the possibility to store yourself in the port of Sein Island.

It is not allowed to wet in the marked channel or in the avoidance zone. This is not where the sea shuttles with passengers pass. Also, the mooring buoys already present belong to the residents or are private, ask once to dock.

Last thing, no supplies are available on the island: no mechanic, no fuel deposit. So be sure and check your boat before departure.

By boat-taxi

There is a last maritime way to go to Sein Island: the boat-taxi. Always at the departure of Audierne, but outside of the imposed schedules, the taxi boats are ready to carry you every day of the year. This is the Compagnie Farandole who takes care of it. The advantage is real, especially if you missed the shuttle or if the schedules are simply not suitable for you. On the other hand, still count 140€ journey for 1 to 7 people .

Where to stay in Sein Island?

If the island is small, it does not prevent it from being very welcoming and offering you what to spend the night. Do not hesitate to compare offers and prices on a Compare hotels . First, on the Route du Phare, Hotel-Restaurant d’Ar Men Open your doors. The rooms are quiet and have the necessary comfort for a successful stay. As for the served kitchen, it obviously varies according to local fishing!

Otherwise, if you also like to go to the contact of the inhabitants, you can choose among the many Airbnb and guest rooms available on the Island of Sein. For example, Frédéric Le Borgne and his character house where he had 5 apartments installed. Ideal if you are looking for privacy and autonomy!

Or again, Gwendolyn and Johann Langonné welcome you in their warm house, facing the ocean, along the Paimpolais Pier. Less intimacy, but a pleasure filled by the sea view and the kindness of this couple! So you're ready for life at the senane?

So, what do you expect to visit Sein Island?