Walking the Brittany Coast Path (Sentier des Douaniers) – Cicerone

Walking the Brittany Coast Path (Sentier des Douaniers) – Cicerone

Guidebook detailing a 624km section of French long-distance route the GR34 (or Sentier des Douaniers, the Customs Officers’ Path) along the scenic north coast of Brittany from Mont-Saint-Michel to Roscoff. The popular well-maintained trail takes in cliffs, beaches, seaside resorts and fishing villages and is rich in history and culture.

A guidebook to walking the northern section of the GR34 Brittany Coast Path, following 624km (388 mile) of dramatic coastline from Mont-Saint-Michel to Roscoff. Known as the Sentier des Douaniers or Customs Officers’ Path, the trail traces one of France’s most celebrated long-distance routes, revealing a constantly changing landscape of rugged cliffs, sweeping bays, sandy beaches and rocky headlands. Along the way, walkers pass historic ports, traditional fishing villages and lively seaside towns, experiencing the distinctive character, history and culture of Brittany.

Suitable for any moderately fit walker, this section of the GR34 can be completed in around a month and requires no technical skills. The route is described from east to west in manageable daily stages, allowing walkers to experience the full variety of Brittany’s coastline at a comfortable pace. For those with less time, the guide also highlights shorter itineraries that capture some of the most spectacular scenery and rewarding sections of the trail.

• The Brittany Coast Path is described in 28 stages of between 13 and 33km, with clear step-by-step route descriptions, detailed mapping and route summary tables to help you plan daily distances and accommodation.
• Includes 1:100,000 mapping for each stage, larger-scale maps for towns and key locations, like Saint-Malo, Saint-Laurent de la Mer, Morlaix, Carantec and Roscoff.
• GPX files for the Brittany Coast Path available to download for easy navigation on digital devices.
• Comprehensive practical information on accommodation, food and refreshments, public transport connections and local facilities, making it easy to organise and adapt your GR34 itinerary.
• Includes four suggested 5-day highlight itineraries, ideal for walkers who want to experience the highlights of the Brittany Coast Path on a shorter trip.
• Helpful planning advice covering preparation, travel to and from the route, accommodation listings, and tips for walking a long-distance coastal trail.

Following in the footsteps of the customs officers who once patrolled this coast to prevent smuggling, the GR34 offers an unforgettable journey through one of France’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions. With ever-changing sea views, abundant wildlife and countless opportunities to enjoy Breton hospitality and cuisine, this guide provides everything you need to explore this remarkable coastline with confidence.

The Brittany Coast Path – Quick Facts

Trail name: GR34 Brittany Coast Path (Sentier des Douaniers)
Location: Brittany, north coast of France
Designation: Grande Randonnée (GR34) long-distance trail
Distance: 624km / 388 miles (Mont-Saint-Michel to Roscoff section)
Typical duration: Around 4 weeks to complete the full section
Start: Mont-Saint-Michel
End: Roscoff
Route format: Linear long-distance coastal walk
Stages: 28 stages, each between 13 and 33km (8–20 miles)
Navigation: Well waymarked with standard red-and-white GR markings
Terrain: Coastal paths, cliff-top trails, beaches, estuaries, woodland and heathland
Difficulty: Moderate, with generally good paths but frequent ascents and descents along the coastline
Best season: Late spring and early autumn (May–June and September) for favourable weather and fewer crowds
Accommodation: Wide range including hotels, guesthouses, campsites and gîtes in seaside towns and villages

Details:

• Publication: 2022
• Pages: 216
• Dimensions: 11.43 x 1.27 x 17.15 cm
• ISBN: 9781786310613