5 ideas for walks on the Côte d'Emeraude during May 2026 bank holidays

Springtime warmth has arrived in Northern Brittany, and the days are getting longer. Just under 3 hours from Paris by TGV, the Emerald Coast is the perfect destination for a short break during the May bank holidays.

Whether you're traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, take advantage of the long weekends to slow down and immerse yourself in the heart of Brittany's natural beauty. We've put together 5 ideas for walks to explore the Côte d'Emeraude along the waterways. It's also a great opportunity to scout out a location for an autumn getaway during the 2026 Route du Rhum!

It's impossible to imagine a trip to the Côte d'Emeraude without a stop in Cancale, nicknamed "the pearl of the Côte d'Emeraude."

At the port of La Houle, the atmosphere is lively and authentic: waterfront restaurants, stalls at the oyster market open seven days a week, a promenade along the sea... In Cancale, enjoy oysters at any time of day overlooking the bay with the silhouette of Mont-Saint-Michel as a backdrop. And to keep the tradition alive, toss your shells on the beach!

Then, gain some altitude and climb to kilometer zero of the GR34 hiking trail, located on the cliff overlooking the port. Don't forget the Pointe du Hock, where a bench awaits you to capture the moment.

Complete your exploration at the Pointe du Grouin, where a fully developed walking path will allow you to discover a spectacular setting between steep cliffs and a view of the Landes Island bird sanctuary. Moreover, it is from Pointe du Grouin that the boats of the Route du Rhum will set off!

Just a few minutes away, the small coastal town of Saint-Coulomb reveals a wilder, more unspoiled coastline.

Following the GR34 hiking trail, you'll discover a succession of remarkable beaches and viewpoints: the Anse du Guesclin cove and its island steeped in history will captivate you with its unique character. In the next area, La Guimorais, you can explore the Besnard peninsula.

Finally, sheltered from the prevailing winds and smaller than its neighbors, La Touesse beach offers an intimate setting to end the day as the sun sets. Be sure to explore further! This beach is home to the famous house of the writer Colette, who lived there between 1911 and 1926.

The next day, head to Saint-Malo, the unmissable corsair city that stands proudly facing the sea.

Begin your walk along the coast from the Rothéneuf district, at the junction between Saint-Coulomb and Saint-Malo. At Pointe de la Varde, the landscape becomes wilder and steeped in history: along the path, the terrain reveals traces of old bunkers, still present beneath your feet, discreet witnesses to the past.

Then join the Rochebonne promenade as far as the Sillon. Arriving at the old town and its ramparts is always breathtaking. You can climb onto the wall and walk around it to follow in the footsteps of the famous corsairs, with a panoramic view of the sea.

At low tide, cross over to Grand Bé to pay homage to François-René de Chateaubriand, before ending your walk in the more secluded and charming Saint-Servan district.

From Saint-Malo, hop aboard a water taxi to Dinard. The journey itself offers a beautiful view of the coastline. Once ashore, relax and enjoy the scenery:

• Follow the "Promenade du Clair de Lune"
• Belle Époque villas
• a break on a terrace overlooking Écluse Beach

Don't miss the market, held three times a week, perfect for sampling local produce.

For a more peaceful atmosphere, head to the banks of the Rance River and the village of Minihic-sur-Rance. Here, the scenery changes: the water is calmer, the landscapes more intimate. You'll discover old tidal mills, traditional shipyards, and surprising boat graveyards.

An ideal outing to enjoy a moment out of time.

For the May bank holidays (May 1st, May 8th, Ascension Day, Pentecost), we offer short stays in mobile homes, ideal for a few days' getaway on the côte d'Emeraude.

From two-person models to family mobile homes, everyone can find the accommodation that suits them, with different levels of comfort and budget. All are equipped for a fully independent stay: a functional kitchen, comfortable living spaces, a terrace to enjoy spring evenings… Some even offer a sea view to extend your escape.

It's the ideal solution for a few days away without constraints, while enjoying peace and nature.

For the May bank holidays (May 1st, May 8th, Ascension Day, Pentecost), we offer short stays in mobile homes, ideal for a few days' getaway on the Emerald Coast.

From two-person models to family mobile homes, everyone can find the accommodation that suits them, with different levels of comfort and budget. All are equipped for a fully independent stay: a functional kitchen, comfortable living spaces, a terrace to enjoy spring evenings… Some even offer a sea view to extend your escape.

It's the ideal solution for a few days away without constraints, while enjoying peace and nature.

Staying at Camping Duguesclin means choosing an eco-friendly campsite in Bretagne, on a human scale (only 53 pitches and 14 mobile homes for rent), where authenticity is paramount.

Our campsite is nestled in the heart of a protected natural environment, from where you can reach Duguesclin beach on foot in about fifteen minutes. A real advantage for enjoying the sea without having to use your car.

Here, you'll find a friendly atmosphere, with a team available throughout your stay, as well as services designed for your comfort: a bar with a terrace, a grocery store, bike rentals, a wellness area (jacuzzi and sauna)...

Committed for many years to an environmental approach (Green Key label), we work daily to limit our impact while guaranteeing you a pleasant stay.

A simple, natural, and peaceful setting... perfect for recharging your batteries during a stay on the côte d'Emeraude over the May bank holidays.

The May bank holidays are very popular on the Côte d'Emeraude.

• Remember to book your mobile home now to guarantee your stay: Book my mobile home
• Contact us for any questions or specific requests.

Treat yourself to a seaside getaway… and take the time to discover Northern Brittany in May!

Accommodation bookings for the 2026 Route du Rhum are also available.