GR®34 | La Baule-Guérande | Loire Atlantique

hiking over the ocean

Now known as the GR®34, the famous customs trail runs along almost 2,000 kilometres of Brittany’s coastline, from Mont-Saint-Michel to Saint-Nazaire. Its name comes from its historical use: in the 18th and 19th centuries, it was used by customs officers to monitor the coastline and combat smuggling.

In the Guérande peninsula, the GR® 34 offers a superb walking experience between estuary, marshes and coastal landscapes. From the Arzal – Camoël dam to the last bridge over the Loire at Saint-Nazaire, the trail unfurls open panoramas, bathed in iodised air. Accessible in sections, it lends itself equally well to a stroll or a more sporting hike, as close as possible to the ocean.

Discover the itinerary

7 panoramic stages breathtaking

Point 1 Arzal dam - Camoël

The gateway to the GR® 34 on the Guérande peninsula, the Arzal – Camoël dam is impressive for its size and location, where the Vilaine meets the ocean. The trail offers a first glimpse of the river, estuary and open horizons, ideal for observing the local wildlife.

Point 2 La Mine d'Or - Pénestin

The GR® 34 runs alongside one of the most spectacular sites on the coast: the Mine d’Or cliffs at Pénestin. Its orange hues, due to iron oxides, glow in the low-angled light, providing a striking backdrop for hikers. A rare geological site, the Mine d’Or is one of the major testimonies to the evolution of the Breton coastline.

Point 3 From Assérac to La Turballe

Between Assérac and La Turballe, the GR® 34 crosses unspoilt natural areas, alternating between beaches, dunes, low cliffs and marshes: the Bay of Pen Bé, the Pointe du Bile and the Mès salt marshes. The trail also links some emblematic ports: Piriac-sur-Mer, a yachting centre, and La Turballe, the leading fishing port on the Atlantic seaboard.

Point 4 From Pen Bron to the salt marshes

From the Pen Bron peninsula, the GR® 34 gradually winds its way into the unique world of the Guérande salt marshes. Covering almost 2,000 hectares, ponds and carnations make up a landscape that has been shaped since the Middle Ages. A haven of remarkable biodiversity, this area is classified as a Natura 2000 zone. The salt-marsh villages of Batz-sur-mer bear witness to this salty past.

Point 5 The wild coast, from Croisic to Pouliguen

For 14 km, the Côte sauvage is one of the most spectacular stretches of the GR® 34. Wind-beaten cliffs, secret coves and rocks sculpted by the swell make up a raw, unspoilt landscape. The walk then continues to Le Pouliguen, where you can swap the force of the ocean for the peaceful, lively atmosphere of its port.

Point 6 The bay of La Baule

The GR® 34 crosses the Bay of La Baule, a 9km crescent of fine sand stretching from Le Pouliguen to La Baule and Pornichet. The route offers sweeping views of the ocean and offshore islets, as well as a beautiful view of the bay, with its changing lights and maritime horizon that attracts hikers and lovers of coastal landscapes.

Point 7 Saint-Nazaire, the port for all voyages

The last stage of the GR® 34, Saint-Nazaire is surprisingly diverse. The path alternates between beaches, wooded cliffs, fisheries and coves, before reaching the urban seafront. A port town facing the ocean and the Loire estuary, Saint-Nazaire tells the story of great maritime and industrial voyages. The walk ends here, facing the open sea and the bridge spanning the Loire, a symbol of openness and departure.

Discover on foot La Baule-Presqu'île de Guérande

Walking the GR® 34 means immersing yourself in the diversity of the landscapes of the Guérande peninsula: cliffs, salt marshes, beaches, bays and harbours. But the area also has many other, more discreet footpaths, enabling you to discover villages, forests, wetlands and little-known panoramas. Whether you’re looking for an hour-long stroll or an itinerary lasting several days, walking in the Presqu’île de Guérande offers a real opportunity to get in touch with nature and the local heritage. Put on your shoes and let the paths guide you through a unique, sea-scented experience, at your own pace.

Discover the hiking routes

GR® 34, le Sentier des Douaniers