The Vélomaritime route leaves the port of Paimpol. Some may wish to head up to the Pointe de l'Arcouest, from which boats make the short crossing to the island of Bréhat. The main route, though, continues east, along Brittany's highest cliffs, via a mix of wild coastal stretches, rocky capes and sheltered coves. There are significant slopes along the way. The Pointe de Plouha, with its daunting cliffs, is the highest point on this stage, 104m in height. Don't miss the magical atmosphere at Le Palus Beach before reaching the fishing port of Saint-Quay-Portrieux.
Gradients and elevation
Slope breakdown
Road types
- Cycle path
- Routes reserved for cyclists and pedestrians (greenways, cycle tracks, towpaths), separated from cars for maximum safety.
- Shared road
- Quiet minor roads with little traffic (unless otherwise stated in the stage details). Shared with cars (stay alert).
- Not specified
- Data unavailable or being assessed. Please refer to the detailed stage description.
- Provisional
- Section on a road or cycle path awaiting better-quality facilities (see stage details).
Surface
- Smooth
- Asphalt, tarmac or smooth concrete. Optimal comfort.
- Rough
- Fine gravel, compacted stabilised surface or worn tarmac. Less comfortable, vibrations possible.
- Natural
- Dirt, grass, roots or stones. Under 5%: short sections with little impact. Higher percentage: route suited to mountain or gravel bikes only.
- Not specified
- Data unavailable or being assessed. Please refer to the detailed stage description.
The route
Mainly along minor country roads. There are significant slopes along this stage.
Take care: just after Paimpol, you have to dismount and lead your bike by hand along 800m taking you through the Domaine de Beauport, a listed natural and historical site owned by France's Conservatoire du Littoral, the authority protecting exceptional coastal stretches.
Link
From Paimpol, a 6km signposted link allows you to reach the Pointe de l'Arcouest, the headland from which boats make the short crossing to the island of Bréhat.
SNCF
- Nearby station Paimpol station (TER): Guingamp/Paimpol line
Trains and transport on the route
- Gare de Paimpol (TER) : ligne Guingamp/Paimpol
- Car + vélo : L'été, embarquez votre vélo entre Saint-Brieuc et Paimpol (ligne 1 du réseau Breizhgo) avec 5 points d'arrêt
