Cancale: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
The small French community of Cancale in the legendary Brittany attracts with its own unique charm as a small fishing village surrounded by spectacular hiking trails and the famous Mont Saint-Michel Bay in close proximity. The breathtaking cliffs invite you to go hiking, while Cancale is also known for its particularly delicious oysters and mussels.
Table of contents
Cancale - Must-see attractions
La Houle Harbor
The La Houle district is located between two piers, where ships and boats have been coming and going for centuries. Five quays invite you to stroll. In the first-class restaurants, you can enjoy oysters, among other things, which are cultivated locally. The oyster market of La Houle is a popular meeting place for gourmets. Here, you can buy various types of shellfish. The best view of La Houle can be enjoyed from the hiking trail that runs on the rock above the town.
Our Lady of the Orchard
The present chapel was consecrated in 1869. It is an important pilgrimage site in Brittany, especially for the Little Sisters of the Poor, a religious community founded by Jeanne Jugan, who was born in Cancale. The chapel is dedicated to the Holy Virgin and is a place of Marian devotion that is very dear to the inhabitants. Since Notre Dame du Verger is committed to the protection of sailors and their families, numerous votive images adorn the chapel.
Snout Point
At the Côte d'Émeraude, the Pointe du Grouin extends as a headland far into the Atlantic Ocean. Steep cliffs falling sharply into the sea and steeply rising, heather-covered rocks characterize the appearance of this natural beauty. From the viewpoint at the tip of the headland, the Atlantic literally lies at your feet. Here is the best spot for impressive photos with the white lighthouse Phare de la Pierre-de-Herpin, which rises on a rocky reef in front of the headland.
Customs Officers' Path
The Sentier des Douaniers, known as the Grande Randonnée 34, spans around 2,000 kilometers. It was established in the 18th century and served as a patrol path for customs officers. Choose your starting point individually to walk in the footsteps of history. From rugged coasts to romantic beach coves and solitary dune landscapes, the Grande Randonnée 34 is a wonderful destination for those who want to actively unwind from everyday life during their vacation and enjoy nature with all their senses.
Bisquine The Cancalaise
The wooden ships known as Bisquine in Cancale form a significant part of Brittany's maritime heritage. For a long time, they were used as agile fishing boats under sail. Thanks to the passionate efforts of the Association de la Bisquine Cancalaise, there is a ship reconstruction. The famous model for today's Bisquine La Cancalaise is the ship La Perle from 1905. Go on board and experience a guided tour through the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel or to the Chausey Islands, including hoisting the sails, among the old rigging.
Trip to Saint Malo
Anyone vacationing in Cancale would do well to visit nearby Saint-Malo. The drive takes about 30 minutes by car. You can also travel by bus. Between Cancale and Saint-Malo, there are many interesting places, including the picturesque Saint-Coulomb. Make a stop to explore the wild and romantic coast. A must is a detour to a restaurant to enjoy freshly caught oysters. Additionally, the charming old town, enclosed by a medieval fortification wall, is captivating.
Cancale - Secret spots
Museum of Cancale
The museum of Cancale, a hidden gem in the picturesque town, is a must for history and culture enthusiasts. It offers a fascinating insight into the town's rich maritime history. Interestingly, Cancale was once the largest oyster supplier for the French royal court in the 18th century.
Saint-Méen Church
The Église Saint-Méen in Cancale is a true highlight full of history and charm. This impressive church, built in the 18th century, is known for its unique architecture and its breathtaking view of the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel. Interestingly, it was named after Saint Méen, a monk who lived in the 6th century and was known for his healing powers.
Mont-Dol
Mont-Dol is a place full of charm and history. Here you will find the impressive granite rock that rises 65 meters above sea level. Interestingly, this rock was once an island before the surrounding marshes were drained in the Middle Ages. Visit Mont-Dol for a unique experience.
Cancale Sea Farm
In Cancale, a charming coastal town, lies the gem "La Ferme Marine." This oyster farm offers a fascinating journey into the world of oyster farming. A surprising detail: Cancale produces 25,000 tons of oysters per year, making it the oyster capital of France. A must for seafood lovers!
Cancale - In 3 days
Day 1
Start your first day in Cancale with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque harbor promenade. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel and watch the fishing boats bringing in fresh seafood. Then visit the famous oyster market, where you have the opportunity to taste the freshest oysters directly from the producer. After this culinary experience, a visit to the Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires is recommended to learn more about the local culture and history. In the afternoon, you can take a hike along the Customs Officers' Path (Sentier des Douaniers), which offers spectacular views of the coast. For dinner, you should definitely try the local cuisine. Enjoy freshly caught fish and seafood, which have a long tradition in Cancale. End the day with a glass of regional cider and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this charming coastal town.
Day 2
Start your second day in Cancale with a visit to Pointe du Grouin, an impressive viewpoint offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the coast and the open sea. Here you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze and maybe even spot dolphins in the distance. After this nature experience, a detour to the Marché de Cancale, the local market, is recommended, where you can discover regional specialties and handcrafted products. Be sure to try the Breton crêpes and galettes, which are particularly delicious here. In the afternoon, a visit to the Ferme Marine is on the agenda, an oyster farm that offers tours. Learn more about oyster farming and enjoy a tasting of this delicacy right on site. To conclude the day, you can take a relaxing walk on the beach of Port-Mer and admire the sunset over the sea. End the evening with a cozy dinner featuring regional specialties.
Day 3
On the third day, a walk through the picturesque alleys of the old town of Cancale is recommended. Here you can admire the charming architecture and browse for souvenirs in small boutiques. In the afternoon, a trip to the nearby island of Mont Saint-Michel is on the agenda. This world-famous island with its impressive abbey is an absolute must and offers numerous photo opportunities as well as exciting historical insights. Back in Cancale, you can end the day with a visit to one of the cozy crêperies. Enjoy savory and sweet crêpes, accompanied by a glass of Breton cider, and reflect on the experiences of the past few days.
Cancale - Climate
The climate of Cancale is maritime, resulting in relatively small temperature differences throughout the seasons. The lowest average temperature in winter is 9°C, and the highest in summer is 21°C. From November to March, there is significantly more precipitation than during the rest of the year. For swimming, July and August are the best months, followed by June and September. For a hiking vacation along the legendary cliffs, you can book from May to October. During this time, average temperatures remain consistently above 16°C, and there is comparatively little rain.