Discover the Sept-Îles, or 'Ar Jentillez' in the Breton language. Contrary to what you might think, the archipelago comprises only 5 islands: Île Bono, Île aux Moines, Île Rouzic, Île Plate and Île Malban.
Apart from these islands there’s the smaller Îlot Cerf, and finally a cluster of rocks called Les Costans!
Les Costans is the oldest and largest private ornithological reserve in France. It was established in 1912 to counteract the slaughter of puffins. Since then it has attracted many other species and was designated a national nature reserve in 1976.
It is home to 25,000 pairs of seabirds, including 175 pairs of Atlantic puffins (the last remaining colony in metropolitan France), 157 pairs of Manx shearwaters and 22,000 pairs of gannets (the only colony in France). As well as birds, the reserve also hosts a colony of about 40 grey seals, the second largest in France after the Molène Archipelago.
The best way to see the birds is to take a trip on one of the passenger boats offering excursions around the archipelago.
The excursion takes you around the different islands in the archipelago and you'll also have a view of the Pink Granite Coast, with a commentary by our seafaring guides.
If you take the 2½ hour trip there's a 45-minute stopover on the Île aux Moines, where you'll discover the Vauban fort and the lighthouse, and enjoy a fabulous panoramic view of the archipelago.
Special safari photo outings for observing the sea life and the Pink Granite Coast depart every afternoon in July and August on board a small 12-seater craft, "The Cormorant".
Another way to discover the Sept-Îles is on board the 9-metre schooner ‘Le Fillao’. Everyone is welcome to take a trip aboard this comfortable and extremely stable craft, which offers a truly nautical experience.
Times of all sailings are available at the hotel reception, and we'll be happy to make bookings on your behalf.