Welcome to Pays Bigouden | Destination Pays Bigouden, Brittany

Le Pays bigouden A land of sea spray and tradition

On the coastal tip of Brittany, the sea is intensely alive, local produce can be savoured without fuss, wild nature can be explored with respect and a light touch, and local traditions can be danced to and celebrated in the street, shining through in the magnificent embroidered costumes and the famous headdress; in short, the Bigouden experience is pure and unfiltered!

This country attracts those who love authenticity and the experience of a daily life in direct contact with the sea, as the bustling ports of the south coast show every day.

Here, it’s easy to be drawn to the west and its immense Atlantic, but you shouldn’t miss out on the inland beauty. The Bigouden countryside hides more than a few gems: heritage, bucolic footpaths, wild spaces and small producers selling local crafts and products are scattered across the landscape.

Come and make your own way through the Bigouden countryside…

©Bigoudènes at the embroiderers' festival in Pont-l'Abbé|M. Cléret

©Pont Labbe Festival Des Brodeuses Defile Bigoudenes 2018 E Cleret|E. Cléret

©Surfing at Penhors, in the Bay of Audierne|T. Poriel

©A walk in the woods in the Bigouden Highlands|A. Lamoureux

©The Eckmühl lighthouse in Penmarc'h|G. Ha Drone

©The famous Hénaff pâté from Pouldreuzic|A. Lamoureux

Covering 22 towns and villages, Pays Bigouden has a double seafront:

To the south, the fishing and yachting harbours from Sainte-Marine to Penmarc’h, via Le Guilvinec, tell of this area’s major fishing industry.
To the west, Audierne Bay, wild and at the mercy of the elements, is an ideal setting for anyone who loves nature and wide open spaces, and a great place for surfing with its famous spots such as La Torche and Penhors.

The Pays Bigouden is also a place of culture and traditions, both deeply rooted in local life and modernised by the passing on of traditions to younger generations. The famous headdress, high and majestic, which has become the emblem of Brittany, remains a strong symbol of the region’s identity.

The inland areas are also well worth a visit, their lush green countryside dotted with remarkable heritage features such as chapels, churches and calvaries. Hiking trails criss-cross the whole area, allowing you to discover it on foot or by bike.

Gourmets will also find plenty to enjoy in the Pays Bigouden. Fish and seafood fresh from the sea, local sweet treats known as ‘lichouseries’, cakes, Breton biscuits, Far Breton flan and of course the indisputable crêpe and its little sister the kouignbigoudène. This landscape also houses several canning factories including the village of Pouldreuzic, home to the famous Hénaff pâté, which is exported worldwide and even into space! All these treats can be washed down with delicious local ciders and apple juice, naturally!

Discover our 22 communes

Start your Bigouden adventure here!

Coastal or more rural, each commune has its own characteristics, charm and assets. Make your selection and choose where to set down your bags for your next holiday.