The island of Groix, located off the coast of Brittany, is a true paradise for lovers of walks and nature. But how long does it take to go around this island, and what are the best ways to visit it on foot? This article will give you all the necessary information on crossing the island of Groix and exploring it on foot.
Groix Island: an ideal destination for hikers
Extending approximately 8 kilometers long and 3 kilometers wide, the island of Groix offers varied and preserved landscapes which will delight walkers of all levels. His 40 kilometers of marked trails allow you to discover its wild coasts, its fine sandy beaches, its secret coves and its moors dotted with colorful flowers.
The GR 34 coastal path
The island's flagship course is undoubtedly the Long-distance hiking trail (GR) 34, also called “customs officers’ path”. This trail follows the contours of the island and allows you to appreciate all its beauty. By following this path, you will pass by the François Le Bail nature reserve, which is home to exceptional fauna and flora, as well as the cliffs of Pointe des Chats and the megalithic site of Pen Men.
How long does it take to tour the island?
The time it takes to walk the entire coastal path obviously depends on your walking pace and the distance you want to cover each day. In general, it is necessary to count between 6 and 8 hours of walking to complete the complete tour of the island, depending on your level and the weather.
Note that you can also choose to complete only part of the route, selecting the stages that interest you the most. Many loops are possible, allowing you to adapt to your desires and your physical form.
Accommodation suitable for hikers
To fully enjoy your stay on the island of Groix and its hiking trails, it is recommended to plan at least one night there. You will find several types of accommodation suitable for walkers, such as stopover lodges, guest rooms or even campsites. Do not hesitate to book in advance, especially during the summer, to be sure to find accommodation that meets your needs.
Getting to the island of Groix: crossing from the continent
To reach the island of Groix, it is necessary to make a boat crossing from the Lorient ferry terminal. The duration of the crossing generally varies between 45 minutes and 1 hour, depending on weather conditions and the type of vessel taken.
Boat times and frequencies
In season, several daily rotations are offered to allow visitors to reach the island. Schedules are generally adapted to facilitate travel for hikers, with departures early in the morning and returns at the end of the day. Do not hesitate to consult timetables and prices on the shipping company's website before your departure.
Practical information for visiting the island of Groix on foot
Before embarking on your adventure, here are some useful tips and information to best prepare your stay on the island of Groix:
- Provide suitable equipment: Don't forget to bring comfortable and durable walking shoes, as well as clothing suitable for the Breton weather, which can be changeable. Also remember to take something to protect you from the sun and rain, as well as a water bottle and snacks for your days of walking.
- Take tides into account : some portions of the coastal path may be inaccessible during high tides. Find out about tide times before your departure, in order to organize your stages as best as possible and avoid any unpleasant surprises.
- To respect the environment : the island of Groix is a preserved natural space, which must be respected. Be careful not to leave litter behind you, not to pick wild flowers and to stay on marked trails to preserve fragile spaces.
Finally, do not hesitate to call on the services of a local guide to enrich your experience and learn more about the history, geology and flora and fauna of the island of Groix. Good discovery !