Anchorage

Stêr-Ouen

Shelter: NE, W, E, SW, S, SE
Seabed: sand, rock, algae
Anchoring: Allowed

Narrow inlet on the north-west coast of Belle-Île-en-Mer, Morbihan, open to the north.

Beach

Guide

Approach and anchoring

Approach from the NW, between Pointe des Poulains and Sauzon. Rock and sand bottom with patches of algae, holding variable. Shelter from SE through S to W, open to the N and NE. Leave at once if the wind backs to N. No lighting, avoid at night.

Practical

Forain anchorage with no facilities. Sauzon 1.4 NM E for moorings, water and provisions. Le Palais 4.4 NM E for full services, ferry and chandlery.

Ashore

Sentier côtier GR 340 runs along the cliffs above the inlet, linking Pointe des Poulains 1 km NW to Sauzon 2 km SE on foot. Phare des Poulains and the former home of Sarah Bernhardt 1.2 km NW. Plage de Donnant on the Atlantic side 3 km S.

History

Belle-Île was fortified by Vauban in the late 17th century and changed hands between France and Britain during the Seven Years' War, occupied by the British from 1761 to 1763.

Key facts

Type: Anchorage
Coordinates: 47.37096, -3.25411 (47°22.26'N 3°15.25'W)
Country: France
Shelter: Sheltered from north-east, west, east, south-west, south, south-east winds
Seabed: sand, rock, algae
Anchoring: Allowed
Services: Beach
Boaters' rating: 4.5/5
Updated: July 7, 2026