Welcome to the Bigouden region | Destination Pays bigouden, Bretagne

Le Pays bigouden A land of sea spray and tradition

At the maritime tip of Brittany, the sea is intensely alive, local produce can be savoured without fuss, wild nature can be approached with delicacy and respect, traditions can be danced to and celebrated in the street, and they shine through in the magnificent embroidered costumes and the famous headdress; in short, theBigouden experience is uncompromising!

This country attracts lovers of authenticity, fascinated by 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 turn your eyes to the west and its immense Atlantic, but you shouldn’t miss out on thehinterland. The Bigouden countryside hides a few nuggets: heritage, bucolic footpaths, wild spaces and small factories selling local crafts and products are scattered across the landscape.

It’s up to you to make your own way through the Bigouden countryside…

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

©Bigoudènes at the Festival des Brodeuses|A. Charlot

©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

Comprising 22 communes, the Pays Bigouden has a two-faceted seafront:

To the south, the fishing and yachting harbours from Sainte-Marine to Penmarc’h, via Le Guilvinec, bear witness to a major fishing industry.
To the west, the Bay of Audierne, wild and at the mercy of the elements, is an ideal setting for lovers of 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 theregion’s identity.

The hinterland is also well worth a visit, with its 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 “lichouseries”, Breton biscuits, far and cakes, not forgetting the indisputable crêpe and its little sister the kouign bigoudène. Canning factories are part of the landscape. Pouldreuzic is home to the famous Hénaff pâté, which is exported as far away as space. All washed down with delicious local ciders and apple juice, of course!

It’s up to you to chart your own course through the Bigouden countryside, with our 360° videos, a virtual journey awaits you!

Discover the Bigouden region in 360°.

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.