A hidden beach to the north of the peninsula
Nestled at the northern tip of the Presqu'île guérandaise, in the commune of Piriac-sur-Mer, Port-au-Loup beach remains one of the best-kept coves in the area. Here, there are no striped tents or bustling crowds · just a small ribbon of sand, granite rocks, and an unobstructed view of the port of Piriac and its moorings.
Access is via a path leading directly onto the sand from the coastal road. A free parking area is available nearby. The beach is perfect for a quiet morning away from the large crowds of the Côte d'Amour.
Shore fishing and GR34
At low tide, the rocks of Port-au-Loup become a playground for shore fishermen · crustaceans, shellfish, and crabs hide in the crevices. Remember to respect the minimum sizes and quotas in force, and to check the tide calendar before you go.
The beach is also an excellent access point to the GR34 (customs officers' path). To the south, it leads in just a few minutes to the port of Piriac-sur-Mer and further on to pointe du Castelli, one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the coast. To the north, head towards pointe de Merquel in Mesquer · a 6-7 km walk along the sea, between coves and moors.
Practical information
Côte de Port-au-Loup
44420 Piriac-sur-Mer
From L'Écrin des Nymphes
Port-au-Loup beach is located about 25 km from the studio, at the northern tip of the peninsula. Allow 30 to 35 min by car via the D213 and then the D99. Combine with a visit to the port of Piriac-sur-Mer, the covered market, or pointe du Castelli for a lovely half-day of nature and heritage.
Antonin's advice
« To fully enjoy Port-au-Loup, choose a morning at low tide with a high coefficient · bucket and net in the basket, you will leave with some green crabs and clams. Combine with lunch at the port of Piriac (market open in the morning) and then a walk to pointe du Castelli at sunset. A full day on the peninsula, nature style. »
Frequently asked questions
Where is Port-au-Loup beach located?
The beach is situated in Piriac-sur-Mer, to the north of the Presqu'île guérandaise, Côte de Port-au-Loup (44420). Access by car via the D52, with free parking nearby. Piriac town centre and its shops are 2.5 km away.
Is the beach suitable for swimming?
Small beach, suitable for family swimming at high tide. Water quality is monitored by health services. Unsupervised swimming: caution is recommended, especially with young children.
Can you fish from the shore at Port-au-Loup?
Yes, this is one of the beach's highlights: the rocks at low tide shelter crustaceans and shellfish. Respect the minimum sizes and regulatory quotas. Check the tide coefficients before you go.
How do you access the GR34 from the beach?
The GR34 (customs officers' path) passes directly by the beach. To the south, the path leads to the port of Piriac and then to pointe du Castelli. To the north, it connects to pointe de Merquel in Mesquer. Beautiful walks on foot or by mountain bike are possible.
Is the beach suitable for the whole family?
Yes, for walking and discovering nature. For very young children, prefer the more supervised beaches of La Baule or Pornichet. For lovers of fishing, wild landscapes, and walking, Port-au-Loup is a favourite.
How far is the beach from L'Écrin des Nymphes?
About 25 km, or 30 to 35 minutes by car via the D213 and then the D99. Combine with a visit to the port of Piriac, the market, or pointe du Castelli for a lovely half-day.