Prepare your visit: history and landscapes
Located in the Iroise Sea, Ouessant is a fascinating island that marks the border between the Channel and the Atlantic. To access it, you must brave the famous current of the Fromeur during a boat trip from Le Conquet or Brest. Once on site, you will discover a raw landscape, without trees, carved by winds and sprays.
The history of the island is intimately linked to that of women, who managed the land while the men were at sea. It is a territory of shredded cliffs, black sheep protected by small dry stone walls and wild moors. A place where nature imposes its rhythm and strength.
Legends and must see on the way
Ouessant is the land of lighthouses, these stone giants that guide sailors in one of the most dangerous passages in the world.
The legend of lighthouses and shipwrecks:
It is said that the currents around Ouessant are so treacherous that they have produced many legends of shipwrecks. But the true epic is that of the Phare du Créac With its black and white stripes, it is one of the most powerful in the world. Its light beam sweeps the horizon and recalls that man has had to increase ingenuity to tame the wraths of the Ocean.
Mandatory must-haves:
• The Stiff Lighthouse: Designed by Vauban, it is one of the oldest lighthouses in France still in operation.
• The Museum of Lighthouses and Tags: Set at the foot of the Creac
• The village of Lampaul: The heart of the island, with its colourful houses, shops and church.
My Practical Tips for Families
Spending a day in Ouessant requires a bit of organization, but the change of scenery is guaranteed for the whole family.
- The wind almost always blows in Ouessant. Plan a good one Windbreaker and superimposed clothes, even in the summer. The Walking shoes are essential for crossing coastal trails.
- On the island, the bike is the king of transport. Most renters offer Children's carts or baby seats, which is ideal for travelling on paved roads. However, if you want to follow the coastal path (for pedestrians only), the Baby carrier is mandatory because the stroller will be blocked by the rocks and narrow paths.
- Transport: When you arrive at the port of the Stiff, shuttles or bike hirers are waiting for you to reach the village of Lampaul (about 4 km away).
- Find the starting point of the crossing via this Google Maps link.
Photo gallery: the views not to be missed
The mythical photo spot is undoubtedly the tip of the Creative, with its dark cliffs and white foam that explodes against the rocks. The view on the Lighthouse of La Jument, isolated in the open sea, is also a powerful digital memory not to be missed.
What I like:
The island of Ouessant, or total disconnection in its most crude state. Walking is a real return to the sources; In the midst of sheep and narrow roads, one discovers its lighthouses guiding ships passing offshore, and its beaches where nature regains its rights and shows its strength. Thanks to the possibility to rent bicycles when arriving at the port, the island is very accessible for all ages. While staying there for a few days, discovering Ouessant on foot allows you to feel all its character and power. A small green setting at the gates of the Atlantic, Ouessant will make you feel like Robinson Crusoe in the middle of the Ouessantins.
