GR34 (Sentier des Douaniers)

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GR34 (Sentier des Douaniers): A Brittany Coast Hiking Guide

Published 17 July 2025 Updated 5 June 2026
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HikeList Score

GR34 (Sentier des Douaniers) scored 81/100 on HikeList's trail-quality metrics.

81
Very Good
See score breakdownHide breakdown
  • Ideal length 52
  • Balanced challenge 90
  • Scenery & wildness 66
  • Varied terrain 100
  • Accommodation 100
  • Food & support 88
  • Path quality 98
  • Season flexibility 100

Computed from length, challenge, scenery & wildness, terrain variety, accommodation, food & support, path quality and season flexibility.

The GR34, or Sentier des Douaniers, is a moderate long-distance coastal trail in Brittany, France, running over 2,000 km from Mont-Saint-Michel to Saint-Nazaire. A full thru-hike takes around 80 days at a steady pace, though most hikers walk it in sections. It suits walkers who want continuous sea views, waymarked navigation and regular villages, but who are ready for repeated short climbs, rocky headlands, beaches, estuaries and the sheer scale of a full coastal traverse.

Route Overview

The GR34 is a point-to-point route from Mont-Saint-Michel in Manche to Saint-Nazaire in Loire-Atlantique, near the Pont de Saint-Nazaire. It follows almost the whole Breton coastline via Cancale, Saint-Malo, Dinard, Cap Frehel, Saint-Brieuc, Paimpol, the Pink Granite Coast, Morlaix, Roscoff, Brest, the Crozon peninsula, Douarnenez, Pointe du Raz, Concarneau, Lorient, Vannes and La Roche-Bernard. The route crosses six departments: Manche, Ille-et-Vilaine, Cotes-d'Armor, Finistere, Morbihan and Loire-Atlantique. For shorter French coastal options, compare the D-Day Beaches Circuit or the Bordeaux to Arcachon Trail.

From customs patrol path to long-distance GR

The Sentier des Douaniers began in 1791 after the French Revolution as a coastal patrol path for customs officers, who walked in pairs to combat smuggling and help shipwrecked sailors. Its hiking story began much later: the first section opened in 1968 near Lannion, initiated by Emile Orain, and full waymarking was completed around 2008. In 2018 the GR34 recorded about 9 million users, and its Finistere section was voted Best French GR of 2017.

Notable highlights

Mont-Saint-Michel: The trail’s north-eastern gateway is the UNESCO-listed abbey-island rising from tidal salt marshes, one of France’s most recognisable landmarks.

Cote de Granit Rose (Perros-Guirec to Ploumanac'h): The Pink Granite Coast is the GR34’s signature stretch, with weathered pink-granite boulders and views towards the Sept-Iles bird sanctuary.

Cap Frehel: A major headland on the Emerald Coast, with cliffs around 70 m high, a lighthouse and seabird colonies; in clear weather the views extend along the coast.

Falaises de Plouha: These are the highest sea cliffs in Brittany at 104 m, north of Saint-Quay-Portrieux, and one of the route’s most dramatic cliff-top sections.

Pointe du Raz: A Grand Site de France at the western tip of the Cap Sizun peninsula, where granite cliffs around 70 m high give wide Atlantic views.

Crozon peninsula: Craggy headlands and turquoise coves define this Finistere section; from Cap de la Chevre the sea view spans from the Bay of Douarnenez to Pointe du Raz.

Challenges to expect

The GR34 is not a mountain trail, but a full thru-hike is demanding because of its length. Expect repeated steep climbs and descents on cliff paths, with some sections accumulating serious ascent despite low altitude. Underfoot is mostly dirt, grass, sand and rock across heathland, dunes, headlands, marshes and estuaries. Some low-lying sections can be submerged at high tide. Navigation is helped by standard red-and-white GR waymarks throughout.

Country
Distance
2000 kilometres
Duration
80 days
Difficulty rating
Moderate
Trail type
Point to point
Elevation gain/loss
13000 metres
Highest point altitude
124 metres
Show more data Show less
Permits & Fees
No permits or fees
Terrain & Landscape
  • Coastal
  • Cliff Top
  • Heathland
  • Dunes
  • Estuaries
Trail surface
  • Dirt
  • Grass
  • Rock
  • Sand
Accommodation
  • Campsites
  • Guesthouses
  • Hostels
  • Hotels
  • Wild Camping Spots
Average daytime temperature
18°C
Chance of rainfall
Medium
Estimated cost
$$
Optimal hiking season
Spring
March to May
Summer
June to August
Autumn
September to November
Year-round
Year Round
Accessibility
  • Family Friendly
  • Pet Friendly
Facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Water Sources
  • Campsites
  • Picnic Areas

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Day 1
Mont Saint-Michel to Cherrueix
Approx. 22km

Begin at the iconic Mont Saint-Michel, following tidal paths across salt marshes and sandy flats to reach the coastal village of Cherrueix. This relatively flat section provides expansive views of the bay and the mont rising in the distance.

Day 2
Cherrueix to Cancale
Approx. 25km

Travel along grassy dikes and sandy trails, passing oyster farms and salt marshes. Arrive in the charming town of Cancale, renowned for its seafood and panoramic bay views.

Day 3
Cancale to Saint-Malo
Approx. 19km

The route follows rocky coastline, forested paths, and small beaches, passing Pointe du Grouin before arriving at the historic walled city of Saint-Malo. This segment offers both rugged scenery and urban exploration.

Day 4
Saint-Malo to Dinard
Approx. 10km

Cross the Rance estuary via ferry or bridge, then follow tree-lined coastal promenades and dramatic headlands leading to the elegant seaside resort of Dinard.

Day 5
Dinard to Saint-Briac-sur-Mer
Approx. 14km

Continue through a succession of intimate bays, beaches, and headlands, walking past classic Breton villas before arriving at Saint-Briac-sur-Mer, noted for its charming atmosphere.

Day 6
Saint-Briac-sur-Mer to Saint-Lunaire
Approx. 8km

This short stretch hugs the jagged shoreline, offering continual ocean views and tranquil spots to rest before entering Saint-Lunaire, a popular summer destination.

Day 7
Saint-Lunaire to Saint-Cast-le-Guildo
Approx. 24km

Traverse headlands and sandy stretches, including Pointe du Décollé and the long beaches that define this section. Reach the lively seaside town of Saint-Cast-le-Guildo.

Day 8
Saint-Cast-le-Guildo to Cap Fréhel
Approx. 22km

Follow spectacular cliffside paths through heathland and windblown fields, with Cap Fréhel’s lighthouse and remarkable pink and grey cliffs emerging ahead.

Day 9
Cap Fréhel to Sables-d’Or-les-Pins
Approx. 13km

Descend from the cliffs of Cap Fréhel to golden beaches and dune areas. The trail becomes easier as it approaches Sables-d’Or-les-Pins, a well-known seaside destination.

Day 10
Sables-d’Or-les-Pins to Pléneuf-Val-André
Approx. 23km

Transition between cliff paths and scenic bays, moving through small villages and resort towns on the way to Pléneuf-Val-André, famous for its boating history.

Day 11
Pléneuf-Val-André to Binic
Approx. 27km

A longer segment along varied coastline, blending dramatic cliffs with gentle beaches and passing the picturesque port of Binic, ideal for seafood lovers.

Day 12
Binic to Paimpol
Approx. 28km

Enjoy a mixture of wooded paths and expansive sea views, passing through historic fishing villages and approaching the port town of Paimpol, gateway to the Île de Bréhat.

Day 13
Paimpol to Tréguier
Approx. 18km

Follow secluded estuaries and rivers as the GR34 turns inland from the coast momentarily, traversing peaceful countryside before arriving at the medieval town of Tréguier.

Day 14
Tréguier to Perros-Guirec
Approx. 24km

Return to coastal scenery, entering the Pink Granite Coast. This renowned stretch features unusual rose-tinted rock formations and dramatic ocean vistas as you head to Perros-Guirec.

Day 15
Perros-Guirec to Trébeurden
Approx. 23km

Follow well-marked trails past pink granite boulders and picturesque bays, passing Ploumanac’h and the Seven Islands nature reserve en route to the charming town of Trébeurden.

Day 16
Trébeurden to Lannion
Approx. 13km

Move inland, following river paths into the heart of Lannion. This shorter day offers a transition from coastal to riverside walking, with opportunities to enjoy local markets and architecture.

Day 17
Lannion to Locquirec
Approx. 22km

A diverse section that leads you back to sea cliffs, sandy coves, and peaceful estuaries, eventually bringing you to the welcoming seaside town of Locquirec.

Day 18
Locquirec to Plougasnou
Approx. 19km

Travel along rugged coastline, past windswept beaches and dramatic rock formations to the quiet cluster of villages around Plougasnou.

Day 19
Plougasnou to Morlaix
Approx. 18km

Skirt the eastern edge of Morlaix Bay and small estuaries, before heading inland to the bustling market town of Morlaix, marked by its impressive viaduct.

Day 20
Morlaix to Carantec
Approx. 20km

Return toward the coastline, meandering through lush countryside, tidal rivers, and marshland areas before reaching the seaside resort of Carantec.

Day 21
Carantec to Roscoff
Approx. 17km

Enjoy an exhilarating walk along coastal promontories, with views of nearby islands and the open Channel, before reaching the ferry port of Roscoff.

Day 22
Roscoff to Plouescat
Approx. 27km

Traverse dunes, sandy beaches, and rocky stretches characteristic of northern Finistère, through small ports and bordered fields on this quieter coastal section.

Day 23
Plouescat to Brignogan-Plages
Approx. 21km

A scenic march along Finistère’s wild coastline, dotted with jagged rocks, white sandy beaches, and the picturesque lighthouse at Pontusval before arriving at Brignogan-Plages.

Day 24
Brignogan-Plages to Kerlouan
Approx. 13km

Continue through the 'Pays Pagan', a coastline famous for wild landscapes, immense granite boulders and charming hamlets, arriving in Kerlouan.

Day 25
Kerlouan to Plougerneau
Approx. 20km

Follow paths flanked by sand dunes and heather, with regular glimpses of the sea and far-off lighthouses. Reach the coastal village of Plougerneau.

Day 26
Plougerneau to Lannilis
Approx. 18km

Navigate through estuarine terrain and marshlands, crossing scenic bridges and causeways before arriving in Lannilis, a hub for oyster cultivation.

Day 27
Lannilis to Plouguerneau (Aber Wrac’h circuit)
Approx. 15km

This circuit features the winding Aber Wrac’h estuary, with rich birdlife and extensive wetlands, looping back to Plouguerneau through tidal inlets.

Day 28
Plouguerneau to Le Conquet
Approx. 29km

Head toward the western tip of Brittany, passing dramatic cliffs, sandy coves, and small fishing ports. Arrive at Le Conquet, one of the westernmost villages in continental France.

Day 29
Le Conquet to Brest
Approx. 26km

Walk through wild coastal heathland, passing lighthouses and WWII fortifications before heading inland to the urban center of Brest, famed for its naval history.

Day 30
Brest to Plougastel-Daoulas
Approx. 18km

Cross the Pont de l’Iroise into Plougastel-Daoulas, a peninsula renowned for strawberry fields and quiet coastal tracks, with gentle elevation changes.

Day 31
Plougastel-Daoulas to Le Faou
Approx. 16km

Follow estuary edges and tranquil woodland paths, with sweeping river vistas and a finish in the characterful small town of Le Faou.

Day 32
Le Faou to Crozon
Approx. 28km

Begin your exploration of the Crozon Peninsula, traversing wild uplands and wooded coastal slopes, leading to the town of Crozon.

Day 33
Crozon to Morgat
Approx. 14km

This section highlights the dramatic southern cliffs and hidden beaches of the Crozon Peninsula, ending at the welcoming seaside village of Morgat.

Day 34
Morgat to Camaret-sur-Mer
Approx. 17km

A stunning journey along some of Brittany’s highest sea cliffs, offering expansive views of the Atlantic before descending into Camaret-sur-Mer.

Day 35
Camaret-sur-Mer to Douarnenez
Approx. 25km

Walk the wild headlands of Cap de la Chèvre and traverse remote stretches before arriving in the lively port of Douarnenez, renowned for traditional fishing.

Day 36
Douarnenez to Pointe du Raz
Approx. 27km

The path takes you along jagged shores and sandy coves, passing cliffs and lighthouses on the way to the windswept Pointe du Raz, a highlight of the entire trail.

Day 37
Pointe du Raz to Audierne
Approx. 18km

Follow winding cliff-top trails around Cap Sizun, eventually descending to the fishing port of Audierne, with its lively riverfront and bustling harbor.

Day 38
Audierne to Penmarc’h
Approx. 30km

Walk endless beaches and dunes past the Pointe de la Torche, renowned for windsurfing, before reaching the iconic Eckmühl lighthouse at Penmarc’h.

Day 39
Penmarc’h to Loctudy
Approx. 17km

This easy segment follows quiet coastline and small harbors, passing oyster beds and picturesque coves en route to the fishing community of Loctudy.

Day 40
Loctudy to Pont-l’Abbé
Approx. 11km

Head inland across flat terrain, following estuaries and marshland to the heritage town of Pont-l’Abbé, known for its castle and vibrant markets.

Day 41
Pont-l’Abbé to Le Guilvinec
Approx. 11km

Return toward the sea, traversing fertile fields and gentle dunes to the major fishing port of Le Guilvinec, a hub for Brittany’s seafood industry.

Day 42
Le Guilvinec to Concarneau
Approx. 32km

A scenic journey along a mosaic of beaches, estuaries, and pine forests, leading to the famous walled port of Concarneau with its celebrated Ville Close.

Day 43
Concarneau to Pont-Aven
Approx. 13km

Leave the coast temporarily to follow the Aven River inland, passing through woodlands and small farms to reach the artist’s town of Pont-Aven.

Day 44
Pont-Aven to Moëlan-sur-Mer
Approx. 17km

Travel through wooded river valleys and rocky coves before returning to the Atlantic coastline at the quiet village of Moëlan-sur-Mer.

Day 45
Moëlan-sur-Mer to Clohars-Carnoët
Approx. 10km

Venture through a bucolic landscape of tidal rias, pinewoods, and sandy bays, finishing in the historic hamlet of Clohars-Carnoët.

Day 46
Clohars-Carnoët to Guidel-Plages
Approx. 13km

Emerge onto wide, windswept beaches and marshy headlands, walking past dunes and river estuaries before arriving at Guidel-Plages.

Day 47
Guidel-Plages to Lorient
Approx. 16km

Skirt the Blavet River and cross natural reserves before entering the urban area of Lorient, a city rich in maritime history and World War II heritage.

Day 48
Lorient to Larmor-Plage
Approx. 11km

Exit Lorient via harbors and waterfront promenades, then enjoy a relaxing stretch along sandy bays to the beach town of Larmor-Plage.

Day 49
Larmor-Plage to Ploemeur
Approx. 13km

Follow low cliffs dotted with small chapels, fortifications, and sandy inlets, passing by several beautiful coves on the way to Ploemeur.

Day 50
Ploemeur to Gâvres
Approx. 18km

Cover a wild, remote stretch of coastline bordered by dunes and marshes before culminating in Gâvres, a small fishing community.

Day 51
Gâvres to Étel
Approx. 17km

Continue through sandy spits and tidal lagoons, with open views of the Atlantic. The village of Étel is known for its impressive ria and fishing traditions.

Day 52
Étel to Quiberon
Approx. 26km

Follow the narrow, exposed Quiberon Peninsula southward, traversing beaches, cliffs, and ancient megalithic sites to reach the vibrant resort town of Quiberon.

Day 53
Quiberon to Carnac
Approx. 23km

Pass the wild Côte Sauvage cliffs before entering historic Carnac, home to world-famous stone alignments and scenic sandy shores.

Day 54
Carnac to La Trinité-sur-Mer
Approx. 10km

Stroll through woodlands, marshland, and lively marinas before reaching La Trinité-sur-Mer, famous for its sailing scene.

Day 55
La Trinité-sur-Mer to Plouharnel
Approx. 8km

Short and pleasant day by salt marshes and oyster beds to Plouharnel, gateway to the Quiberon Peninsula and ancient archaeological sites.

Day 56
Plouharnel to Saint-Pierre-Quiberon
Approx. 13km

Walk sandy isthmuses and quiet coves, passing Neolithic ruins as you near the charming resort village of Saint-Pierre-Quiberon.

Day 57
Saint-Pierre-Quiberon to Auray
Approx. 19km

Depart from the peninsula, trekking across fields and ancient causeways to Auray, a picturesque medieval riverside town.

Day 58
Auray to Locmariaquer
Approx. 18km

Travel south through forest corridors, crossing river inlets to Locmariaquer, famous for large megaliths and panoramic views over the Gulf of Morbihan.

Day 59
Locmariaquer to Vannes
Approx. 29km

Follow a network of tide-influenced trails skirting the Gulf of Morbihan, passing oyster beds and ancient chapels on the way to the fortified town of Vannes.

Day 60
Vannes to Séné
Approx. 11km

Explore protected wetlands with rich birdlife and salt marshes, navigating winding paths to the scenic harbor of Séné.

Day 61
Séné to Arzon
Approx. 24km

Skirt the tip of the Rhuys Peninsula, passing historical sites, ancient dolmens, and scenic beaches en route to the seaside town of Arzon.

Day 62
Arzon to Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys
Approx. 13km

Meander along dramatic coastal cliffs on the Atlantic side, passing sandy coves and wild heaths to the abbey village of Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys.

Day 63
Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys to Sarzeau
Approx. 15km

Travel farmland tracks and wide beaches, with views of distant islands and maritime pines, before finishing at the market town of Sarzeau.

Day 64
Sarzeau to Le Tour-du-Parc
Approx. 10km

A quiet, short segment through oyster beds and salt marshes along sheltered shoreline, concluding at Le Tour-du-Parc.

Day 65
Le Tour-du-Parc to Muzillac
Approx. 13km

Journey inland a short way through quiet rural landscapes and small hamlets before reaching the town of Muzillac.

Day 66
Muzillac to Pénestin
Approx. 24km

Return to dramatic coastal walking with red cliffs and vast estuaries, passing by the famous Mine d’Or beach before closing the day in Pénestin.

Day 67
Pénestin to La Turballe
Approx. 19km

Cross long stretches of sandy shoreline and lively harbor areas, finishing the day at La Turballe, a center of Brittany’s fishing industry.

Day 68
La Turballe to Le Croisic
Approx. 18km

Walk the wild granite headlands and tidal salt pans of the Guérande peninsula, with a finish in the fortified port town of Le Croisic.

Day 69
Le Croisic to La Baule-Escoublac
Approx. 17km

Circle the salt marshes of Guérande, then continue on to the grand beaches and seaside promenade of La Baule-Escoublac, one of France’s most famous resorts.

Day 70
La Baule-Escoublac to Pornichet
Approx. 8km

Travel a classic French Riviera-style stretch of wide strand and elegant villas to reach the lively vacation town of Pornichet.

Day 71
Pornichet to Saint-Nazaire
Approx. 12km

Your final day takes you along the Atlantic promenade to Saint-Nazaire, passing coastal parks, WWII bunkers, and industrial heritage sites before arriving at the GR34’s southern terminus.

Day 72
Saint-Nazaire to Saint-Brévin-les-Pins
Approx. 13km

Cross the Loire estuary, continuing on to the pine forests and sweeping sands of Saint-Brévin-les-Pins. This day marks the symbolic entrance to southern Brittany.

Day 73
Saint-Brévin-les-Pins to Mindin
Approx. 11km

Walk beautiful pine forests and beachfront trails, passing contemporary sculptures and quiet residential areas en route to the Mindin district.

Day 74
Mindin to Paimboeuf
Approx. 18km

This section drifts inland along the southern banks of the Loire, traversing marshland and historical canal towns before finishing in Paimboeuf.

Day 75
Paimboeuf to Frossay
Approx. 14km

Traverse the former industrial areas of the Loire estuary, moving through nature reserves and green spaces to the rural commune of Frossay.

Day 76
Frossay to Le Migron
Approx. 11km

Walk riverside levees and old lock paths through peaceful countryside, arriving at Le Migron at the intersection of waterways and meadows.

Day 77
Le Migron to Saint-Viaud
Approx. 8km

Continue along the southern edge of the Loire estuary, through tranquil orchards and countryside to the village of Saint-Viaud.

Day 78
Saint-Viaud to Corsept
Approx. 6km

A peaceful walk through farmlands and nature areas leads to Corsept, a classic small commune of southern Brittany, famed for its festivals.

Day 79
Corsept to Saint-Père-en-Retz
Approx. 9km

Wander rural lanes and groves, crossing nature preserves and small rivers before reaching your penultimate stop at Saint-Père-en-Retz.

Day 80
Saint-Père-en-Retz to Bourgneuf-en-Retz
Approx. 18km

The final day leads through scenic wetlands and across expansive maritime plains, concluding your GR34 adventure in the historic town of Bourgneuf-en-Retz.

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