Attractions and Places To See around Cancale - Top 20

Here everything revolves around oysters. The whole bay is full of oyster beds, which are consumed right at the harbor.

Cancale's oyster farms are among the most famous oyster-farming areas in France. Thanks to the nutrient-rich waters and strong tides, the conditions here are ideal for farming. Several thousand tons of oysters are produced annually on approximately 400 hectares – primarily the Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) and the flat oyster (Ostrea edulis). The oysters mature in metal racks or bags exposed at low tide, allowing farmers to regularly turn and care for them. Oyster farming has been part of Cancale's identity for centuries and was recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of France in 2019. Visitors can tour the farms, for example at the Ferme Marine de Cancale (https://www.ferme-marine.com/de/), where they can learn about the farmers' work and taste fresh oysters firsthand.

Cancale originated in the 12th and 13th centuries as a small coastal settlement, dominated by fishing and oyster farming, around the port of La Houle. The first fortified harbors and the old Église Saint-Méen were built as early as the 14th century. Today, numerous sights reflect the town's maritime tradition: the Port de la Houle, the fish market for fresh seafood; the Cale de l'Épi, a historic lock with 19 arches; the new Église Saint-Méen in the Neo-Gothic style; and the maritime bell, a symbol of the old harbor tradition.

The Port de la Houle is the historic fishing port in the La Houle district. It is a center of oyster and fishing activities and is surrounded by traditional fishermen's houses. Today, the harbor invites you to stroll, enjoy culinary experiences, and enjoy beautiful views of the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel.

The "Plage du Saussaye" is located northwest of Cancale along the road to Saint-Coulomb and is one of the most picturesque bays in the Ille-et-Vilaine region.

Plage du Saussaye, located in Cancale, Ille-et-Vilaine, Brittany, is a quiet and secluded beach often praised for its natural beauty and tranquility. This sandy cove is nestled between cliffs near the Moulière Point and is considered one of the most picturesque coves in Ille-et-Vilaine. The beach's location northwest of Cancale's town center, along the GR 34 hiking trail, makes it a peaceful retreat away from the bustling crowds of the town. The beach's natural features are one of its main attractions. It boasts a pristine stretch of sand and minimal plastic debris, indicating a well-preserved environment. The coastline is rocky, and at low tide, tide pools can be seen, further enhancing the beach's charm. The surrounding greenery enhances the beach's aesthetic appeal. A unique feature of Plage du Saussaye is the presence of small ocean pools that serve as mini-ecosystems among the rocks along the sides of the beach. These pools add to the beach's appeal, but visitors should exercise caution when exploring during tides. The beach is also known for wildlife viewing, with bottlenose dolphins frequently spotted, which enhances the overall visitor experience. Access to the beach is via a steep path from the parking lot.

The stronghold for fresh oysters. They are offered fresh right on the beach in front of the oyster beds. You should definitely try them. Otherwise you can enjoy a great view of the bay from the higher vantage points or follow the coastal hiking trail, which is also higher up, or explore the town center on the mountain.

Special and impressive view. At high tide you only see the sea, but hours later at low tide you look out over hundreds of meters of mussel beds, which are harvested by local fishermen with tractors and sold to local restaurants.