Erquy is a seaside town and port in northern Brittany known for its beaches and as the ‘scallop capital’ of France.
Visitors can explore picturesque pink sandstone cliffs, wander through the seafood markets and hike the moorland along the coastline.
Where is Erquy?
Erquy is situated on Brittany’s northern coast, just to the west of the Côte d’Émeraude (Emerald Coast).
The town is located in the department of Côtes-d’Armor, approximately 110 kilometres (66 miles) northwest of Rennes, the capital of Brittany.
How to get to Erquy
Nearest airport to Erquy
The closest international airport to Erquy was Dinard–Pleurtuit–Saint-Malo Airport, about 23 miles (36 kilometres) to the east, but at the time of writing it does not offer any commercial flights. Previously flights to various UK destinations and seasonal routes to other European cities were available (and may be in the future).
That leaves the best options for visitors travelling by air as Rennes Bretagne Airport to the south-east or Brest Bretagne Airport to the west, both of which offer direct flights to London and Dublin.
Distances
Erquy to Rennes–Saint-Jacques Airport: 67 miles (108 kilometres)
Erquy to Brest Bretagne Airport: 104 miles (168 kilometres)
Erquy to Caen Carpiquet Airport: 126 miles (203 kilometres)
Erquy to Nantes Atlantique Airport: 135 miles (218 kilometres)
For those arriving on long-haul flights, Erquy is approximately a four-and-a-half-hour drive from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport.
Rail travel
While there’s no direct train service to Erquy, the nearest railway stations are in Lamballe, about 15 miles (22 kilometres) away, or Saint Brieuc, about 22 miles (35 kilometres) away. There is a limited bus service from Saint Brieuc to Erquy, which takes around 30 minutes. Otherwise the two options are close enough to make a taxi ride affordable.
Driving to Erquy
The easiest way to reach Erquy by car is via the N12 national road, which connects Rennes to Brest. From the N12, take the D786 towards the coast. If you’re driving from Paris, expect a journey of about four and a half hours.
History of Erquy
Erquy’s history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of Roman occupation in the area. The town’s name is believed to derive from the Gallo-Roman “Ariciacum,” meaning “domain of Aricius.”
For centuries, Erquy’s economy revolved around fishing and agriculture. The town became particularly famous for its scallop fishing industry, which remains an important part of its identity today.
In the 19th century, Erquy began to attract tourists drawn to its beautiful beaches and picturesque landscapes. The construction of the port in 1830 further boosted the town’s economy, facilitating both fishing and tourism activities.
Erquy’s distinctive pink sandstone, quarried from the nearby cliffs, has been used in many local buildings and exported for use in structures across France. The town’s lighthouse, built in 1838, stands as a sentinel overlooking the bay and serves as one of Erquy’s most recognizable landmarks.
What’s Erquy known for?
- Stunning pink sandstone cliffs and beaches
- Delicious scallops and seafood
- Beautiful coastal walks and nature reserves
- Annual scallop festival
Top things to do in Erquy
1. Explore the beaches and cliffs
Erquy boasts over 11 kilometres of coastline, featuring golden sandy beaches and dramatic pink sandstone cliffs. Don’t miss the popular Plage de Caroual or the more secluded Plage de Lourtuais.
2. Visit the fishing port
Wander around the bustling port, especially in the early morning when fishing boats return with their fresh catch. You might even spot the famous coquilles Saint-Jacques (scallops) being unloaded.
3. Hike the coastal paths
Follow the GR34 coastal path for breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding landscapes. The trail from Cap d’Erquy to Cap Fréhel is particularly scenic.
4. Discover local history at Château de Bienassis
Bienassis Castle is located just a few miles to the south-west of Erquy and offers guided tours of the 15th century historic château during the summer months.
5. Savour the local cuisine
Indulge in fresh seafood, especially the renowned Erquy scallops. Try them at local restaurants or pick up some to cook yourself at the town’s markets.
Cap d’Erquy
The Cap d’Erquy is a stunning headland that forms part of the Grand Site Cap d’Erquy-Cap Fréhel, a protected natural area known for its exceptional beauty.
This rugged promontory offers panoramic views of the coastline and is crisscrossed with hiking trails. The area is rich in flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
The cape is also home to the old sandstone quarries that gave Erquy its distinctive pink buildings. Today, these quarries have been reclaimed by nature – a unique landscape to explore.
Erquy Tourist Office
The Erquy Tourist Office is located in Rue du 19 Mars 1962, right in the heart of the town.
It’s open year-round, with extended hours during the summer season. The friendly staff can provide information about local attractions, accommodations, and events, including details about the popular Fête de la Coquille Saint-Jacques (Scallop Festival) held every three years in the spring.
Erquy Information
Erquy Tourism: www.capderquy-valandre.com
Côtes d’Armor Tourism – Erquy: www.cotesdarmor.com
Brittany Tourism – Erquy: www.brittanytourism.com
