Hoedic, an island to discover exclusively on foot
Measuring 2.5 km long and 1 km wide, the island of Hoedic in southern Morbihan can only be explored on foot. Less crowded than its neighbors Houat and Belle-Île-en-Mer, Hoedic offers a peaceful and authentic experience, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
How to Get to Hoedic
The island is accessible by boat from Quiberon (year-round—crossing time: 1 hour) as well as from Locmariaquer, Port-Navalo, or Vannes during the season, with one-way or round-trip options available. In the summer, ferry services also take you to the island in just over an hour, departing from Le Croisic or La Turballe. Unwind for a day on Hoedic, a hidden and unspoiled island.
We recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Reservations can be made online or at our visitor centers. Feel free to contact us for more information: ferry company, pier, parking, etc.
You can also book a boat trip with a skipper to set sail and discover the island in a whole new way.
Feel free to consult the sustainable transportation guide produced by the Association des Îles du Ponant to plan your walking tour of Hoedic.
You can also download the mobile app “Houat and Hoedic: Discovering the Heritage of the Sister Islands.” This immersive and accessible experience lets you discover the landscapes, history, and culture of each island through geolocated points of interest, while raising awareness about heritage preservation. The app is available for download on Google Play or the App Store.
What to See and Do in Hoedic
Leave your car behind—here, it’s all about peace, tranquility, and the scent of the sea. The coastal dunes protect the island’s heart: the village, the fort, and the sandy alleyways. The smallest of the Morbihan islands invites you to take a break from the hustle and bustle: on a café terrace, in the shade of stone walls and blue shutters... Whether in summer or winter, a weekend in Hoedic guarantees a change of scenery in southern Brittany.
- The village of Hoedic
The island's main village is picturesque, with its white houses and blue shutters typical of the Breton islands. Here you'll find shops, restaurants and a small grocery store. It's an ideal place to relax, enjoy fresh seafood or simply stroll around.
- The beaches
Hoedic has many fine sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, lounging or water sports. The most popular beaches are :
- 3 minutes' walk to the south, the Vieux Port beach
- 5 minutes to the west, Port Blanc beach
- less than a quarter of an hour to the east, plage bleue (also known as plage de Tahiti).
- Hoedic Fort
Built in 1859, this fort was erected to protect the island from invasion. Today, it houses an exhibition room and a heritage area. A gîte d'étape also welcomes you from April to October, with 2 15-bed dormitories and spacious communal areas.
The fort offers panoramic views over the island and the ocean, making it an ideal vantage point for photos.
- The Coastal Trail
An 8.5-kilometer walking trail circles the island, offering panoramic views of the ocean and coastal scenery. A complete tour of the island can be done in 2 hours, and the hiking trail is accessible to all levels. It's an excellent way to discover the local flora and fauna, as well as the island's many small villages and hamlets.
Don't miss Houat Island, its "big sister," for a timeless getaway. During your stay, be sure to take the time to explore the Gulf of Morbihan on a guided cruise (departing from Locmariaquer, Auray, Vannes, Port Blanc, and other locations). For reservations and information, contact the Tourist Office.
Tips for Your Visit
- What to Bring: Pack comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (including wind protection), and water.
- Accommodations: If you’d like to stay overnight, there are several options available. Whether you choose a guesthouse, hotel, or campground, select the accommodation that suits you best. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season. Stopping over by boat? Check with the town hall. Both ports—Argol and La Croix —offer sheltered mooring spots.
- Respect for the Environment: Hoedic is a pristine island, so it’s important to respect nature, avoid disturbing the local wildlife, and take all your trash with you when you leave.
Nature reigns supreme, so let’s take the right steps to protect it:
- On the beaches, keep your dog on a leash between April and August to protect the birds that nest there;
- At the beach, stay as close to the water as possible to avoid accidentally crushing plover nests, which are well-camouflaged in the sand near the water’s edge;
- Keep your distance: do not approach the birds, whether they are on land or at sea. If they fly away when you approach or let out alarm calls, they have been disturbed;
- Stay on marked trails and do not venture into the fragile and sensitive dunes;
- Do not litter and pick up your trash
- Leave your dinghies on the beach, not in the dunes