Three days to explore the walled town of Vannes, choose one island and follow the Gulf shoreline to Larmor-Baden and Saint-Goustan. A single base keeps the trip simple.
The short answer
The most balanced route combines Vannes and Conleau on day one, an island on day two, then Larmor-Baden and Saint-Goustan on day three.
Stay in Vannes for three nights to avoid changing accommodation. Île aux Moines is well suited to cycling; Île d’Arz is particularly enjoyable on foot. The final day stays on the mainland and can be used as a back-up if marine weather turns poor.
The trip at a glance
Distances assume accommodation in Vannes. They are approximate and vary with the departure pier, parking and the detours you choose.
| Day | Main stop | Approx. travel | Suggested pace | Check before leaving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vannes, walled town and Conleau | 0–12 km · 0–30 min | Old town in the morning, Gulf shoreline in the afternoon | Market day and parking |
| 2 | Île aux Moines or Île d’Arz | 30–45 km return + boat | One island only, walking or cycling loop | Pier, timetable, last return and weather |
| 3 | Larmor-Baden, Auray and Saint-Goustan | 50–65 km · 1 hr 15–1 hr 40 | Two main stops and lunch by the water | Tides and onward travel time |
In July and August, allow extra time to reach the piers and arrive before the stated departure time. Ferry schedules may change, so always check with the operator.
Suggested route
Vannes → Port-Blanc or Vannes ferry terminal → a Gulf island → Larmor-Baden → Auray and Saint-Goustan → Vannes.
Day-by-day itinerary
This outline deliberately leaves room for the weather, the tides and the pleasure of staying longer at a harbour or on a coastal path.
Begin at the harbour, Porte Saint-Vincent, the half-timbered houses and the rampart gardens. After lunch, follow La Rabine or head to Conleau for your first view across the Gulf.
Choose one island. From Port-Blanc in Baden, the crossing to Île aux Moines is very short. From Vannes or Séné, the journey to Île d’Arz provides a gradual introduction to the Gulf.
Drive to Larmor-Baden for views across the Gulf from the north shore, then continue to Auray. Walk downhill to Saint-Goustan, cross the stone bridge and take time to follow the quays.
Choosing an island
Both deserve a full day. Trying to combine them in a three-day trip would leave too little time on either. Choose according to how you wish to travel and the atmosphere you prefer.
Choose it for the very short crossing from Port-Blanc, its lively village and a flexible cycling trip. The island is hilly, so shorten the route with younger children.
Choose it for a day on foot, a quieter atmosphere and a crossing from Vannes or Séné. Check seasonal sailings and bicycle carriage before travelling.
Where to stay
Three days pass quickly. Avoid changing accommodation and explore from a single place.
The most versatile choice: restaurants in the evening, heritage sights on foot and easy access to Île d’Arz departures. Recommended for a first visit.
For a quiet maritime atmosphere close to Port-Blanc and the Gulf shoreline. A car makes evenings and the Vannes day easier.
Convenient by train and appealing near Saint-Goustan. Vannes is easy to reach, although the ferry piers require more planning.
Practical tips
The itinerary is simple, but maritime details make the difference between a relaxed day and a rush for the boat.
The same destination may be served from several piers. Check the departure address before starting the GPS.
Note the last boat and arrive early. Timetables change with the season and the day of the week.
Wind and visibility can alter the programme. Keep Vannes and Saint-Goustan as mainland alternatives.
They transform coves and harbours without preventing a visit. Check them especially for a beach stop or a long coastal walk.
In summer, reach Port-Blanc early and allow time to park near the ferry piers.
Book locally or check whether your bicycle is accepted aboard. On Île aux Moines, adapt the route to the hills and your available time.
Information checked on 2 October 2026 against official sources: Gulf of Morbihan Vannes Tourism, City of Vannes, Izenah Croisières and Bateaux-Bus du Golfe. Confirm timetables and conditions before travelling.
Frequently asked questions
The useful answers before choosing accommodation and a boat crossing.
Spend one day in Vannes and Conleau, one day on Île aux Moines or Île d’Arz, then one day around Larmor-Baden and Saint-Goustan harbour in Auray.
Vannes is the most convenient base for a first visit. Baden or Larmor-Baden suit a quieter stay near the ferry piers, while Auray is convenient when arriving by train.
Yes, if you focus on Vannes, Conleau and Île d’Arz. A car makes it much easier to include Port-Blanc, Larmor-Baden and Saint-Goustan in the same trip.
Île aux Moines works well for cycling and offers more visitor services. Île d’Arz is quieter and particularly enjoyable on foot. Your departure pier and preferred pace should guide the choice.
May, June and September generally provide a good balance of open services, pleasant light and lower visitor numbers. In summer, book crossings and reach the pier early.