Informations
The department of Côtes-d’Armor, located in the north of Brittany, is a land of outstanding natural, cultural and historical wealth. Bordered by the English Channel, it stretches over 350 kilometers of wild, rugged coastline, alternating between dramatic cliffs, fine sandy beaches, hidden coves, winding estuaries and lively fishing harbors.
From Cap Fréhel to the Bay of Saint-Brieuc, from the Pink Granite Coast to the Lézardrieux Peninsula, the maritime landscapes are strikingly diverse, shaped by ever-changing light and impressive tides. The Pink Granite Coast, between Perros-Guirec and Trégastel, is one of the jewels of the department, famous for its pink-hued rock formations sculpted by the wind and sea.
Inland, Côtes-d’Armor reveals a more rural Brittany, made up of hedgerows, moorlands, meandering rivers and small character towns such as Moncontour, Tréguier or Quintin. The valleys of the Trieux and the Léguer offer a green haven perfect for hiking, kayaking and wildlife observation.
The department is also rich in historical heritage, with castles, parish enclosures, manor houses, standing stones and chapels scattered throughout the countryside. Saint-Brieuc, the prefecture of the department, is a human-scale city with a charming old town, an active harbor at Le Légué, and sweeping views over its bay — one of Brittany’s largest natural reserves.
Along the coast, activities abound: sailing, scuba diving, fishing, birdwatching in the Saint-Brieuc Bay reserve, hiking along the famous customs officers’ trail (GR34), or cruising to the Bréhat archipelago and the Sept-Îles nature reserve. The sea is everywhere, shaping local culture, gastronomy, traditions and livelihoods.
Côtes-d’Armor is also a cradle of the Breton language and Celtic legends, which still imbue the landscapes and local folklore. Celtic festivals, religious pardons, fest-noz traditional dances and contemporary art exhibitions reflect a strong identity rooted between land and sea.
Local gastronomy is rich and generous, showcasing delicacies such as scallops from Saint-Brieuc, Paimpol oysters, crêpes, buckwheat galettes, artisanal ciders, kouign-amann, Guémené andouille sausage, and Plougastel strawberries.
Easily accessible from Rennes or Paris via high-speed train (TGV), the department attracts travelers in search of authenticity, dramatic scenery and genuine encounters. Côtes-d’Armor is an invitation to slow down, breathe the salty sea air, explore on foot or by bike, and savor a Brittany full of soul — between cliffs and valleys.
Plage des Godelins
The Casino Beach of Saint-Quay-Portrieux, located in the heart of this renowned seaside resort in Côtes-d’Armor, is one of the most iconic spots on the Goëlo coast. Bordered by an elegant seafront promenade and overlooked by the casino building that gives it its name, this beach combines charm, lively atmosphere and exceptional views over the Bay of Saint-Brieuc.
This large sandy beach, facing due south, enjoys generous sunshine and an ideal exposure for swimming. At high tide, the sea reaches the seawall, inviting bathers into its pristine waters, while at low tide, vast stretches of sand are revealed, perfect for strolling, beach games or even shellfish gathering. It is a favorite meeting place for families, with a supervised swimming area during the summer season ensuring optimal safety.
In summer, the beach is particularly vibrant: colorful parasols, children’s games, paddleboarding, kayaking and swimming lessons all share the space in a convivial atmosphere. Its charm also lies in the view it offers: on the horizon, the Saint-Quay Islands appear — a small archipelago accessible by boat excursions — and further in the distance, the rugged silhouette of the wild Goëlo coast. At sunset, golden reflections spread across the sea, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
Casino Beach is just steps away from the town center of Saint-Quay-Portrieux. It is easily accessible from the terraces of cafés, crêperies and seafood restaurants that line the seafront. The proximity of the marina — one of the most dynamic in northern Brittany — adds to the appeal of this site where nautical activities, seaside life and cultural events come together.
An additional asset of Casino Beach is its seamless integration into a high-quality environment: to the east, the corniche leads to other small, secluded coves; to the west, the promenade connects the beach to the pink granite cliffs and the coastal hiking trails of the GR34, offering walkers remarkable viewpoints over the entire bay. This harmony between beach, nature and heritage makes Saint-Quay-Portrieux an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and discovery.
Casino Beach is therefore a true summary of everything that makes northern Brittany so attractive: the beauty of a preserved coastline, the friendliness of a lively seaside resort, the diversity of activities on offer and the authenticity of a maritime setting steeped in tradition. Whether coming for a swim, strolling along the seawall, savoring a seafood platter after a sunny day, or simply contemplating the horizon, this beach remains an unmissable highlight of tourism in Côtes-d’Armor.
