Diving in the Glénan Islands in South Brittany: underwater treasures
Emerald waters and white sandy beaches — the Glénan Islands, off the coast of Fouesnant in South Finistère, offer breathtaking, almost tropical scenery. Often referred to as the “Breton Seychelles”, this archipelago is a haven for nature lovers. Beneath the surface, exceptional marine life and numerous wrecks make it a prime diving destination, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.
Diving for everyone in South Brittany
Looking for an unforgettable diving experience in South Brittany? Head to the Glénan Islands. This unique site, made up of eight main islands and many islets, appeals to divers of all levels.
While there are many diving clubs in Finistère, the International Diving Centre (CIP), founded in 1959 on Saint-Nicolas Island — the largest in the archipelago — is internationally renowned. It offers introductory dives, training courses from beginner to advanced levels, and exploration trips to discover the underwater landscapes of the Glénan.
Spectacular marine life and biodiversity
A true natural gem, the Glénan archipelago has been a protected site since 1973, with Île aux Moutons designated as a nature reserve. Its 5,000 hectares of rocky seabeds are home to remarkable biodiversity.
On land, you can admire the famous Glénan narcissus, a delicate white flower unique to the archipelago, once endangered but now protected. The islands also provide a vital breeding ground for over 140 species of seabirds.
Underwater, the spectacle is just as impressive. Kelp forests and seagrass beds shelter sponges, anemones, conger eels, pollack, starfish, sea urchins and lobsters. Large schools of fish are common, and lucky divers may even encounter basking sharks.
This rich ecosystem explains why the archipelago, also classified as a marine reserve, is one of the must-see diving spots in South Brittany.
Exploring the shipwrecks of Brittany
Diving in Finistère also means discovering fascinating shipwrecks. The seabed around the Glénan Islands hides numerous wrecks that sank over centuries, due to storms or conflicts.
Today, these wrecks create an almost cinematic underwater landscape. Adour, Agnus Dei, Alja, Garonne, Germinal, Notre-Dame, Pietro Orseolo, Masacaret… each has its own story.
There may be no treasure chests here — except for the one created by nature itself, reclaiming these vessels and turning them into thriving ecosystems.
Diving in the Glénan Islands and South Brittany
Non-exhaustive list of diving clubs around the archipelago:
cip-glenan.fr: International Diving Centre, founded in 1959 on Saint-Nicolas Island. Offers training courses and diving trips for all levels. www.actisub.fr www.skietnaviguerensemble.fr www.plongee-ericsauvage.com www.subagrec.fr
Getting to the Glénan Islands
For more information or diving opportunities in South Finistère, contact the local tourist office.
Vedettes de l’Odet : www.vedettes-odet.com Les Croisières Bleues : www.croisieresbleues.fr Fishing boat « Popoff » : www.popoff-voile.com
Tourist Office
4 Espace Kerneveleck – BP 14 29 170 FOUESNANT Tél : +33 02 98 51 18 88 info@tourisme-fouesnant.fr / www.tourisme-fouesnant.fr