From salt to oyster, an exceptional port
Kercabellec port reveals itself as a haven of peace out of time. Nestled between the seaside, the traict de Mesquer Pen-Bé, and the salt marshes of Mès, it bears witness to an ancient history: its port has been documented since Antiquity, and salt trading was the main activity until the 19th century.
With the decline of salt production, oyster farming became the dominant activity. Today, 6 Mesquer farms cultivate hollow oysters. From seed to plate, it takes 18 months to 3 years for the oysters to grow in the sea and then refine in the claires, acquiring the unique taste of "Mesquer oysters".
The site, in the heart of the Brière Regional Natural Park, offers remarkable wildlife: avocets, herons, egrets, and spoonbills can be observed from the banks, especially in the spring and autumn mornings.
Taste oysters facing the sea
Several oyster producers offer direct sales and on-site tasting. It's an opportunity to enjoy freshly harvested oysters, accompanied by a glass of muscadet, grilled sardines, or bouchot mussels.
The Maison Alaire, at the end of the port, is iconic: oysters, mussels, shellfish, and crustaceans, with sea views for tasting all year round. Tel. +33 2 51 10 27 67. Hours vary by season, feel free to call.
The Café du Port complements the offering in a warm and authentic setting, with a terrace facing the sea. Local tapas in the evening, welcoming atmosphere, and a timeless feel.
To be consumed in moderation.
Practical information
44420 Mesquer
Tourist office of Mesquer · +33 2 40 42 64 37
To be combined with the customs path (GR®34) between Merquel dune and the port.
Sensitive natural site · No dogs in season on the dune.
From L'Écrin des Nymphes
Kercabellec is approximately 25 km from the studio. Allow 30 minutes by car via the D213 then the D33 towards Mesquer-Quimiac. The journey crosses beautiful landscapes of salt marshes and bocage.
For cyclists, the round trip by bike is a lovely route along the greenways of the Vélocéan, which run along the coast. Allow about 2 hours each way, mostly flat with some urban sections.
Antonin's advice
“My favourite for late afternoons in the beautiful season: we arrive at 17:00, taste a dozen oysters and a glass of muscadet on the terrace facing the port, then continue with a walk on the coastal path towards the Merquel point for sunset. It’s one of the quietest spots on the peninsula, miles away from the hustle and bustle of La Baule. Ideal also for bird lovers: bring your binoculars!”
Frequently asked questions
Where is Kercabellec port located?
Kercabellec port is located in Mesquer, 44420, to the north of the Guérande peninsula, between the sea, the traict de Mesquer Pen-Bé, and the salt marshes of Mès. Allow about 30 minutes by car from L'Écrin des Nymphes in La Baule-les-Pins.
Can you buy and taste oysters on site?
Yes, several oyster producers offer direct sales and tasting of oysters facing the sea. The Maison Alaire, located at the end of the port, is one of the most well-known: hollow oysters, mussels, shellfish, and crustaceans, to be enjoyed with sea views all year round.
What is the history of Kercabellec?
The port of Kercabellec has existed since Antiquity. The salt trade was the main activity until the 19th century. With the decline of salt production, oyster farming became the dominant activity. Today, 6 Mesquer farms raise the hollow oyster, from seed to plate (18 months to 3 years of farming).
What to see and do in Kercabellec?
Tasting oysters and shellfish at the producers, a walk on the customs path (GR®34) between the dune of Merquel and the port, observing seabirds (avocets, herons, egrets, white spoonbills), discovering the nearby salt marshes of Mès (14th century, still in operation). Ideal by bike or on foot.
What are the opening hours of the oyster farmers?
Variable depending on the producers. For reference, Maison Alaire has summer hours (Tuesday-Sunday 9:00-22:00) and winter hours (Thursday-Sunday 10:30-21:00). It is advisable to call ahead to confirm: +33 2 51 10 27 67 or +33 2 40 42 53 52.
How to get to Kercabellec from L'Écrin des Nymphes?
Allow about 30 minutes by car via the D213 and then the D33. Easily combined with a visit to the salt marshes of Mès and a return along the coast. For cyclists, the round trip by bike from La Baule is a beautiful route on the greenways (allow 2 hours each way).