After a short ten minute crossing from Paimpol, the ferry arrives in Port Clos on the Ile de Brehat, which is in fact two islands Ile Nord and Ile Sud, joined by a tiny bridge at Pont Vauban.
No cars are allowed on the island so all exploring must done either by bicycle or on foot. Bicycle hire is available, however, the island is only 3.5km long by 1.5km wide so you can walk from one side to the other in less than one hour.
The island is renowned as one of the most beautiful parts of Brittany. It is easy to spend the whole day here. There are little islets around the island, some of which are accessible at low tide and comprise of pink-orange rocks. The island is also a sanctuary for rare species of wild flowers and birds of all kinds.
The village of Le Bourg on Ile Sud has restraunts, bars, shops and on most days there is a small market.
There are numerous little coves, costal walks and wonderful views, particularly from the lighthouse, La Phare du Paon.
On the road from Paimpol to the ferry terminal for the Ile de Brehat look out for the sign to Port Even to make your way to "La Croix des Veuves". This is a beautiful viewpiont looking out over all the rocky islands scattered on the approach to Paimpol. It is from here that the wives of the fishermen would look out to sea, searching for their men returning from their fishing trips to Iceland and Newfoundland, hence the name "The Cross of the Widows".