A Hiking Guide for Cornouaille
The FFRandonnée Cornouaille guidebook is ideal for planning a long-distance hike in southern Finistère. It invites you to discover the Breton region of Cornouaille, featuring wild coastlines, harbors, villages, inland landscapes, and major natural sites.
From Douarnenez, hikers can reach Lorient by following one of two major routes. On one hand, the GR®34—also known as the "Customs Officers' Path" (*sentier des douaniers*)—runs along the coast, revealing some of Brittany’s most stunning panoramas. On the other, the GR®38 cuts inland, passing through Quimper and the Montagnes Noires (Black Mountains).
This guide allows you to choose your preferred atmosphere: a seaside hike facing the ocean or an inland trek through the heart of Brittany. Either way, the route promises a wonderful immersion into the landscapes, heritage, and identity of Brittany.
The GR®34 (Customs Officers' Path) between Douarnenez and Lorient
The GR®34 route through Cornouaille is a major highlight of this guidebook. It follows the Breton coastline, allowing hikers to walk right alongside the ocean—a dream route for coastal hiking enthusiasts.
Along the stages of the journey, walkers encounter cliffs, beaches, rocky headlands, harbors, coves, and vast ocean vistas. Passing the Pointe du Raz is a highlight of the trek; this spectacular site offers a powerful atmosphere defined by wind, rocks, open sea, and wide-open spaces.
The Customs Officers' Path also takes you through authentic villages and unspoiled landscapes. It is a wonderful way to discover Brittany on foot—far from major roads—at the rhythm of the tides, the changing light, and the coastal trails. The GR®38: A Journey Across the Breton Hinterland
For those wishing to discover a different side of Cornouaille, the GR®38 offers an inland alternative. Starting in Douarnenez, the route makes its way to Lorient via Quimper and the Montagnes Noires (Black Mountains).
This itinerary highlights the inland character of Brittany, featuring valleys, sunken lanes, villages, hedgerow landscapes, forests, and gentler terrain. It offers a deeper understanding of Cornouaille’s cultural and geographical richness.
Choosing between the GR34 and the GR38 allows hikers to tailor their trip to their preferences. Whether it is the spectacular coastline or the Breton interior, each route offers a powerful and complementary experience.
A Major Breton Trek: Planning with Care
Spanning over 30 days of hiking, this guidebook is designed for walkers planning a genuine long-distance trek. It can be used to complete the entire route or to select specific stages for a shorter trip.
It is a practical tool for organizing daily schedules, identifying key sections, and planning the itinerary effectively. It is ideal for regular hikers, GR34 enthusiasts, long-distance walkers, and anyone wishing to experience Brittany from a new perspective.
Ultimately, this guidebook is an excellent resource for bringing a hiking adventure in Cornouaille to life, combining nature, heritage, Breton culture, and magnificent landscapes. A wonderful invitation to lace up your boots and set off on a walk between land and sea.
Guide highlights:
- FFRandonnée guidebook dedicated to the Cornouaille region of Finistère
- Over 30 days of hiking
- Long-distance route from Douarnenez to Lorient
- Two major route options: GR®34 or GR®38
- The GR®34—the famous "Customs Officers' Path"—for hiking along the coast
- Includes major landmarks such as the Pointe du Raz
- The GR®38 for exploring inland Brittany via Quimper and the Montagnes Noires
- Ideal for planning a major hiking trip in Brittany
- Coastal scenery, authentic villages, and vast natural landscapes
- A reliable resource for organizing a long-distance trek or selecting specific stages
FAQ
Which route does the Cornouaille guidebook cover?
It offers a long-distance route from Douarnenez to Lorient, following either the coastal GR®34 or the inland GR®38.
Does this guide allow for hiking on the GR®34?
Yes. It highlights a significant section of the GR®34—the famous "Customs Officers' Path"—taking in the Finistère coastline, the Pointe du Raz, harbors, beaches, and sea views.
What is the difference between the GR®34 and the GR®38?
The GR®34 runs along the Breton coast. The GR®38, on the other hand, cuts further inland, passing through Quimper and the Montagnes Noires.
How many days of hiking are included?
The guide covers over 30 days of hiking, allowing you to plan a full long-distance trek or choose just a few stages.
Who is this guidebook for?
It is designed for long-distance hikers, lovers of Brittany, GR®34 walkers, and anyone wishing to discover the Cornouaille region on foot.
