Pléneuf-Val-André is a picturesque seaside town located in the Côtes-d'Armor department of Brittany, France. The town was originally a small fishing village but developed into a popular seaside resort in the late 19th century, particularly with the construction of the Val-André district in 1880. This expansion introduced elegant Belle Époque villas, a casino, and a boardwalk along the beach, attracting visitors seeking relaxation by the sea.
The town's history is deeply tied to both its maritime heritage and tourism. Fishing and agriculture were the main sources of livelihood before the tourism boom, and even today, fishing remains an important industry, particularly for scallops.
Description
Pléneuf-Val-André is known for its stunning coastline, long sandy beaches, and scenic walking trails. The town is divided into three main areas:
Pléneuf: The historic center, where you'll find the church, market, and traditional Breton charm.
Val-André: The more modern seaside resort area, featuring a long promenade, a casino, and beautiful villas.
Dahouët: A quaint fishing port with a rich maritime history and picturesque harbor.
The combination of sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming villages makes Pléneuf-Val-André a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing coastal retreat.
Typical Food
The region of Brittany is famous for its seafood and traditional Breton cuisine. Some typical foods to try in Pléneuf-Val-André include:
Coquilles Saint-Jacques (Scallops) – The town is well known for its high-quality scallops, often served grilled or in a creamy sauce.
Galettes de Sarrasin (Buckwheat Crêpes) – A staple of Breton cuisine, these savory crêpes are filled with ingredients like cheese, ham, eggs, and seafood.
Crêpes Sucrées – Sweet crêpes filled with butter, sugar, jam, or chocolate.
Fresh Oysters and Mussels – Sourced from local waters, often served with a squeeze of lemon.
Kouign-Amann – A buttery, caramelized pastry that originates from Brittany and is a must-try for dessert lovers.
Cidre Breton (Breton Cider) – A refreshing and slightly fizzy apple cider, typically enjoyed with crêpes.
Activities
Pléneuf-Val-André offers a variety of outdoor and cultural activities for visitors to enjoy:
Beach and Seaside Walks
The Val-André Beach is a stunning 2.5 km stretch of golden sand, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or walking along the scenic promenade.
The GR34 Coastal Trail offers breathtaking views of the coastline, with routes leading to Cap d'Erquy and beyond.
Water Sports & Sailing
The area is great for windsurfing, paddleboarding, and sailing, with equipment rentals available.
The port of Dahouët is a great spot to watch traditional fishing boats or even take a sailing excursion.
Golf
Golf Bluegreen Pléneuf-Val-André is one of the most scenic golf courses in France, featuring stunning cliffside views over the ocean.
Casino & Nightlife
The Casino du Val-André offers slot machines, table games, and a stylish bar with sea views.
Markets & Local Shopping
The weekly Pléneuf Market (on Tuesdays) is the best place to buy fresh seafood, cheeses, and local specialties.
Artisan shops in Val-André sell Breton souvenirs, from striped sailor shirts to handcrafted ceramics.
Cultural Sites
Église Saint-Pierre de Pléneuf – A historic church with beautiful stained glass windows.
Château de Bienassis (nearby) – A well-preserved 15th-century castle offering guided tours and historical insights.
Festivals & Events
Fête de la Coquille Saint-Jacques – A celebration of the town’s famous scallops, usually held in spring.
Local music and maritime festivals occur throughout the summer.