Visit the cove at Port Poyed in Sauzon: tranquility and hidden natural beauty

Forget for a moment the vast beaches of the wild coast and the waves crashing loudly. On Belle-Île, there are more secluded spots. The cove of Port Poyed is one of these hidden gems. Nestled in a lush green valley in the town of Sauzon, this small, secluded cove welcomes travelers seeking tranquility. It is the very embodiment of the Slow spirit in Brittany: taking the time to discover an unspoiled place, far from traditional tourist routes—a philosophy we fully embrace at Slow Village.

A secluded cove sheltered from the wind

Also spelled Porh Poyed or sometimes linked to the tip of Porh Ized on old maps, this cove nestles at the bottom of a lush green valley. Unlike the island’s large sandy beaches, the shoreline here consists of a mix of fine sand, small pebbles, and flat rocks.

A natural shelter for sailors

The term “Port” is no accident. In the past, this indentation in the rock served as a natural shelter. Even today, it’s not uncommon to see a small rowboat or a fishing boat at anchor there, protected from the currents by the rocky arms jutting out into the sea. It’s this picturesque quality that gives the place its unique atmosphere.

Calm, crystal-clear water

Thanks to its orientation, the water here is often particularly clear and calm. It’s a great spot for observing the seabed or letting a child explore the small pools of water at low tide in search of shells, far from the roar of the ocean waves.

The walking route along the coastal trail

For hiking enthusiasts, the best way to get there is still the long-distance hiking trail that circles Belle-Île. Starting from the port of Sauzon and heading west, the coastal trail offers superb views of the sea. After passing the hamlet of Kerzo, the trail descends gently into the valley and leads directly to the beach. A word of advice: bring a walking stick, as the descent along the path can be a bit slippery after a rain shower.

Access by road

If you’d rather keep the walk short, take the road from downtown Sauzon (or coming from Le Palais) toward the inland villages. Park near the hamlet of Kerzo, making sure not to block traffic. From there, a footpath winds down through the shaded valley. After a few minutes’ walk, the cove finally comes into view through the trees.

What activities are available at Crique de Port Poyed?

Although the site is ideal for relaxing and reading, the surrounding area offers wonderful opportunities for exploration.

• Landscape photography: Whether you choose the viewpoint on the left or the right side of the cliffs, the way the valley lines up with the sea makes for a stunning photo, especially in the morning when the low-angle light illuminates the rocks.
• Snorkeling: Along the rocky headland, the crystal-clear water makes snorkeling a real pleasure.
• Hiking: Port Poyed is a great spot to stop for a picnic before continuing your hike toward Pointe des Poulains.

Our tip for your visit

The best time to visit Port Poyed Cove is from late spring to early fall. To enjoy the sand, plan your visit around mid-tide or low tide, as at high tide, the water reaches the bottom of the cove and covers much of the beach.

After a day spent exploring the hidden corners of Belle-Île, returning to the natural comfort of Slow Village Belle-Île-en-Mer is a true delight. Our vacation village in Brittany is perfectly situated, allowing you to explore the areas around Palais and Sauzon while staying connected to this unspoiled, rejuvenating natural environment.